I t has always been in our nature as humans and as brewers to see how far we can go. We like to push the limits of the conventional or practical.
Strong ale is an elusive beer to define, because the phrase refers to a wide variety of beers.
Strong ales can range from 1.065 original gravity to 1.126, and final gravities range from 1.012 to 1.055 and beyond. The alcohol content can reach 12 percent or higher. Bitterness levels vary from 20 to 90-plus IBUs. With higher alcohol levels and higher hop rates, many strong ales benefit greatly from extended aging. This makes spring a great time to brew your strong ales.