ale

noun

ˈāl

: a beer that is brewed by fast fermentation with a quick-acting yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) at relatively high temperatures

Note: Ales tend to have a complex, slightly fruity or spicy flavor with a usually darker appearance than lagers and usually with a more intense, bitter flavor of hops. The yeast used to ferment ale is often referred to as "top-fermenting" since it tends to rise to the top of the brewing vessel during fermentation. This yeast also has a tolerance to higher alcohol concentrations, resulting in a beer with a usually higher alcohol content than a lager.

… ale can be produced more quickly because it is fermented at higher temperatures—from 60 to 70 degrees.—

Frank J. Prial

compare pale ale, porter, stout

: an English country festival at which ale is the principal beverage

Examples of ale in a Sentence

The bar serves two very different ales.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

The Dullahan Irish Pub serves classic Irish fare (bangers, Rubens and haddie cakes) alongside an extensive selection of ales. —

Meira Gebel, Axios, 16 Jan. 2025 Some are lighter and drier (like the Upside Dawn golden ale), while others lean smoky and chocolaty (the All Out stout). —

Sarah Felbin, SELF, 14 Jan. 2025 Well, not actually tussling in a War of the Roses way; more an amiable tug-of-war on the village green before bonding over a few local ales. —

Sarah James, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Nov. 2024 Its micro-fine formula contains ale, vitamin E, and glycol to leave your skin feeling moisturized and plump, minimizing the risk of mid-day dryness and cracking of your base makeup. —

Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ale