Originally posted by: BentValve
I have a question for the OP.
What sets a Pale ale apart from the other beers?
well, that is a very good question and its fitting that I just drank a Red Hook ESB, which would be considered a pale ale. There are four sub-styles that would be considered 'Pale Ales': Standard/Ordinary Bitter, Special/Best Bitter, Extra Special Bitter, and American Pale Ale.
As far as what sets them apart from other beers...first, they are not Lagers. Lager yeasts have are very differnt than yeasts used to make ales and there is a big flavor difference strictly from the yeast between ales and lagers. Secondly, they are going to be more bitter than sweet or malty. Third, they will be golden to copper and won't have any haze. they should have a nice clean white head, with good retention.
Pales are different from other ales in respect to the color, bitterness, maltiness, and hop flavor.
Pale Ales range from light yellow (e.g., Standard or Ordinary Bitter - Young's or Adnams make one - or American pale ale - see Sierra Nevada's Pale ale) to deep copper (e.g., Fuller's ESB, Red Hooks ESB).
Bitterness should be high compared to the amount of maltiness, but there is considerable variation between the four substyles, and the beer should not be overpoweringly bitter regardless of style. some caramel flavors are acceptable for the english pales.
Maltiness should be more noticiable in the special and extra special bitter substyles, but still balanced and constrained by the bitterness of the beer.
Hops used in Pales will traditionally be english varieties for the English Pale Ales. these have a floral and earthy. American Pale ale will use american varieties (cascades is very common) and may be slightly grassy.
All Pale ales should be easy to drink, and refreshing without be heavy.