Extra Special Bitter, aka ESB

Bitter is a relative term. The classic Bitters are downright malty when compared to today’s hop-bombs. However, they were quite bitter when compared to the Milds, Browns and Porters popular in England when Bitters stormed onto the seen. Compared to modern bitter American ales, ESBs are well balanced, with a strong malt backbone supporting the … Read more

Brown Porter, the Working Man’s Beer

Last week I said I don’t have a favorite beer, but I have a few favorite styles. Like Belgian Wit, Brown Porter is another favorite. Although it’s usually called Porter, it’s full name distinguishes it from Robust and Baltic Porters, which are delicious in their own right. Many well-known American Porters actually fall into the Robust … Read more