31B - Alternative Sugar Beer

ABV: 0-0%
OG/FG: 0-0/0-0
SRM: 0-0
IBU: 0-0

Overall Impression

A tasteful integration of sugar and beer, but still recognizable as beer. The sugar character should both be evident and in balance with the beer, not so forward as to suggest an artificial product.

Appearance

Same as the base beer, although some sugars will bring additional, usually darker, colors.

Aroma

Same as the base beer, except that some additional fermentables (e.g., honey, molasses) may add an aroma, which should be a pleasant, balanced combination with the beer.

Flavor

Same as the base beer, except that some additional fermentables (e.g., honey, molasses) may add a flavor, which should be a pleasant, balanced combination with the beer. Added sugars should not have a raw, unfermented flavor. Some unfermentable sugars provide a fuller finish, while fully fermentable sugars can thin out the finish.

Mouthfeel

Same as the base beer, although depending on the type of sugar added, could increase or decrease the body.

Style Comparison

Ingredients

History

Comments

The additional sugar should be apparent somewhere in the sensory profile. If the sugars do not add a distinguishable character to the beer, enter it in the base style category. A honey-based beer should not have so much honey that it is perceived more like a mead with beer (i.e., a braggot) than a honey beer. This style should not be used for styles where the alternative sugar is fundamental to the style definition, or where a small amount of neutral-flavored sugar is used simply to increase gravity, increase attenuation, or lighten flavor or body; those beers should be entered as the normal base style.

Commercial Examples

Bell’s Hopslam, Cervejaria Colorado Appia, Fifth Hammer Break of Jawn, Groundswell Piloncillo, Long Trail Harvest, New Glarus Cabin Fever