 | An Old Ale is a medium-strong British dark ale. Old Ale’s name originated centuries ago because it was a mild ale that was aged a year or more before drinking. It was the mixture of expensive old ale with inexpensive mild that became the basis for the porter style. These beers are typically dark, rich, and sweet with notes of fruit and molasses. Best served at 50 degrees F. |
Old ale is a term commonly applied to dark, malty beers in England, generally above 5% abv, often also called Winter Warmers; also to dark ales of any strength in Australia. Sometimes associated with stock ale or, archaically, keeping ale, in which the beer is held at the brewery. |