English Bitter

What is English Bitter?

English bitter is a classic among pale ales: light, slightly cloudy, with low alcohol content, yet distinctly malty and hoppy. 

Bitter is typically an unfiltered draft beer.

Origin Story

The British have been using the word bitter to describe pale ales since the early 19th century, although the term did not entirely take hold until almost a century later. 

Brewers themselves called the beers "pale ale", but ordinary customers began to identify them as bitters. They requested a "bitter" to make sure they didn’t get the sweeter, less-hopped mild ale. Later, the term stuck and brewers also began to use it. 

Bitter and British pubs have remained almost inseparable companions. In many pubs "a pint of bitter" is a standard order for beer to this day. 

Bitter can be called the signature ale of Britain, with most brewers having at least one bitter in their selection. Brits are extremely skilled in making their bitters with a low alcohol content yet so much flavour and character.