Scotch Ale

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This beer often includes a mix of both lighter and darker malts used generously. This is naturally reflected in its colour, which can be described as a darker caramel.

What is Scotch Ale?

As the name suggests, this beer originated in Scotland, where some types are also known as wee heavy.

Typically, it is a strong and malty beer, much like barley wine, meaning the wort is dense and the finished beer is full-bodied, strong, and somewhat sweet.

Origin Story

Scotch ale developed into its current form in the Edinburgh area during the 19th century. Its development was influenced by the scarcity of hops in the region and Scotland’s high-quality malt production due to its whisky industry.

These conditions favoured the creation of a malty, full-bodied, strong beer with relatively low bitterness. Even today, scotch ales have lower bitterness compared to similarly strong and visually similar barley wines.