Session Pale Ales offer a delightful compromise between the hop-forward intensity of Pale Ales and a lower alcohol content, resulting in a beer style that is both flavorful and sessionable. With their balanced malt profile, vibrant hop character, and easy-drinking nature, Session Pale Ales have gained popularity among beer enthusiasts who seek a refreshing and flavorful experience without the higher alcohol content. In this blog post, we will explore the defining characteristics, brewing techniques, and notable examples of Session Pale Ales, taking you on a journey of flavour and refreshment.
Understanding Session Pale Ales
Definition and Origins
Session Pale Ales, also known as Sessionable Pale Ales, are a beer style that offers the hop-forward characteristics of Pale Ales with a lower alcohol content. The term “session” refers to the beer’s drinkability, allowing for longer drinking sessions without becoming too intoxicating. The style originated as a response to the demand for flavorful, yet more sessionable, beers that can be enjoyed over an extended period without overwhelming the palate.
Flavour Profile
Session Pale Ales exhibit a balanced and approachable flavour profile. They often feature hop varieties that provide a pleasant combination of citrus, floral, and fruity notes, accompanied by a lighter malt presence. The result is a beer that offers a refreshing hop character without the higher alcohol content typically found in stronger Pale Ales.
Lower Alcohol Content
What sets Session Pale Ales apart is their lower alcohol content compared to their stronger Pale Ale counterparts. While traditional Pale Ales may have an ABV ranging from 5% to 7% or higher, Session Pale Ales typically fall within the range of 3.5% to 5% ABV. This lower alcohol content allows for a longer drinking session while maintaining the flavor and enjoyment of the beer.
Brewing Techniques
Brewing a remarkable Session Pale Ale involves careful consideration of ingredients and brewing techniques. Here are some key techniques to create a top-notch Session Pale Ale:
Grain Bill
The grain bill for a Session Pale Ale typically consists of a base malt, such as pale malt or Pilsner malt, which provides a clean and crisp foundation. Some brewers may incorporate a small percentage of specialty malts, such as crystal or Vienna, to add a touch of complexity and enhance the malt character without overpowering the hops.
Hop Selection
Hop selection is crucial in crafting a flavorful Session Pale Ale. Popular hop varieties used in this style include Cascade, Centennial, Citra, Amarillo, and Mosaic, known for their vibrant citrus, floral, and fruity characteristics. These hops contribute to the beer’s refreshing and aromatic qualities, providing a burst of flavor without excessive bitterness.
Bitterness and Balance
Achieving a balanced hop bitterness is important in Session Pale Ale brewing. Brewers aim for a moderate level of bitterness, typically ranging from 25 to 40 International Bitterness Units (IBUs), to complement the hop flavours without overpowering the malt backbone. Careful hop additions during the brewing process help achieve the desired balance.
Yeast Selection
Selecting an appropriate yeast strain is essential for a Session Pale Ale. Clean-fermenting yeast strains, such as American ale yeast or British ale yeast, are commonly used to allow the hop and malt flavours to shine without introducing any dominant yeast-derived flavors. These yeast strains contribute to a crisp and clean fermentation profile.
Carbonation and Mouthfeel
Session Pale Ales generally exhibit a moderate to high level of carbonation, enhancing the beer’s refreshing and crisp nature. The mouthfeel should be light to medium, providing a smooth and drinkable texture that complements the flavors and aroma.
Notable Session Pale Ales
Several breweries have crafted exceptional Session Pale Ales that exemplify the style’s characteristics. Here are some notable examples:
Alpha Session by Wild Beer Co.
Alpha Session from Wild Beer Co. is a standout Session Pale Ale that showcases a vibrant hop profile. With a blend of Citra and Amarillo hops, this beer offers an explosion of citrus and tropical fruit flavours, balanced by a light malt backbone. Alpha Session demonstrates the perfect marriage of drinkability and hop-forward goodness.
All Day Long by Cloudwater Brew Co.
All Day Long by Cloudwater Brew Co. is a renowned Session Pale Ale that embodies the essence of the style. This beer features a carefully selected hop combination, resulting in a refreshing array of citrus, floral, and resinous flavours. All Day Long delivers a delightful drinking experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Gamma Ray by Beavertown Brewery
Gamma Ray from Beavertown Brewery is a notable Session Pale Ale that combines a hop-forward profile with a lower ABV. With a focus on Citra hops, Gamma Ray offers a burst of tropical fruit, citrus, and pine flavours. It exemplifies the balance between hop intensity and sessionability that defines the style.
Food Pairing
The balanced hop character and approachable malt profile of Session Pale Ales make them versatile when it comes to food pairings. Here are some suggested pairings to enhance your Session Pale Ale enjoyment:
- Grilled chicken or seafood: The bright hop flavours and crispness of Session Pale Ales complement the charred and savoury qualities of grilled chicken or seafood, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Spicy cuisine: The hop bitterness and citrusy notes of Session Pale Ales provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of spicy dishes, helping to cleanse the palate and balance the flavours.
- Fresh salads and light appetizers: Session Pale Ales’ lighter body and hoppy character make them an excellent accompaniment to fresh salads, light appetizers, and cheeses. The hops’ citrusy and floral flavours enhance the crispness and vibrancy of these dishes.
Conclusion
Session Pale Ales offer a flavorful journey of refreshment, showcasing the perfect balance between hop-forward flavors and lower alcohol content. With their approachable nature, vibrant hop profiles, and lighter malt presence, Session Pale Ales have become a favourite choice for those seeking a refreshing and flavorful beer experience. Whether you’re enjoying the hop explosion of Alpha Session, the well-crafted allure of All Day Long, or the tropical delight of Gamma Ray, Session Pale Ales provide a satisfying and sessionable beer adventure. Raise a glass, savor the flavors, and enjoy the delightful refreshment of this beloved beer style. Cheers!
