Best Bitter

Best Bitter, also known simply as “Bitter” in some regions, is a traditional English ale known for its balanced malt and hop character. Typically ranging from 3.8% to 4.6% ABV, this beer style is characterized by a golden to deep amber color with a moderate body. The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, featuring notes of biscuit, caramel, and toffee from the malt, balanced by earthy, herbal, and floral hop flavors. Best Bitter is known for its drinkability and moderate strength, making it a staple in British pubs.

What Judges Look For

Judges expect a Best Bitter to pour with good clarity and a moderate, white to off-white head that may not persist. The aroma should feature a balance of malt and hop character, with notes of biscuit, caramel, and toffee from the malt, and earthy, herbal, or floral hop aromas. On the palate, a well-crafted Best Bitter should offer a balanced interplay of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, with flavors of bread, biscuit, caramel, and a touch of fruitiness from the yeast. The finish should be dry and refreshing, with a moderate bitterness that lingers but does not overwhelm. Any signs of diacetyl, excessive fruitiness, or astringency are considered flaws.

History of the Style

The history of Best Bitter dates back to the 19th century in England, where it evolved as a draft beer served fresh in pubs. Bitters were originally brewed as a more flavorful alternative to pale ales, with a focus on balance and drinkability. The term “bitter” became a way to distinguish these beers from the sweeter mild ales. Over time, Best Bitter became a staple of British pub culture, appreciated for its moderate strength and flavorful profile. Despite the rise of stronger and more complex beers, Best Bitter remains a beloved style for its simplicity and sessionability.

Recipe Crafting

Crafting a Best Bitter recipe involves selecting ingredients that highlight its balanced malt and hop character. Start with a base of pale ale malt, which provides the light color and bready flavor. Add specialty malts such as Crystal malt for caramel sweetness and a touch of Biscuit or Victory malt for a toasty note. Hops should be traditional British varieties like East Kent Goldings, Fuggles, or Challenger, providing earthy, herbal, and floral notes. Aim for an IBU range of 25-35. A classic English ale yeast such as Wyeast 1968 (London ESB) or White Labs WLP002 (English Ale) is ideal for fermentation, contributing mild fruity esters and a slightly mineral character.

Brewing Techniques

Brewing Best Bitter requires careful attention to achieve its balanced and approachable flavor profile. Start with a single infusion mash at around 152°F to promote a medium body and full malt flavor. Conduct a 60-minute boil, adding hops at the beginning and end of the boil to achieve the desired bitterness and aroma. Fermentation should be carried out at cool ale temperatures (64-68°F) to maintain a clean profile with subtle fruity esters. Best Bitter benefits from being served fresh, so a relatively short conditioning period of a couple of weeks is typical. Traditional cask conditioning can enhance the beer’s texture and carbonation, but bottle conditioning is also common.

Common Pitfalls

Brewing Best Bitter can be challenging due to the style’s demand for balance and subtlety. One common pitfall is achieving the right balance between malt sweetness and hop bitterness—too much sweetness can make the beer cloying, while too much bitterness can make it harsh. Ensuring proper mash temperatures and hop additions is key. Another issue is achieving the desired clarity and freshness; using high-quality ingredients and maintaining a clean brewing process is critical. Avoiding excessive fruitiness from the yeast is also important; fermenting at the appropriate temperature range and choosing a suitable yeast strain can help achieve the desired profile.

Serving and Pairing

Best Bitter is traditionally served in a pint glass or a nonic glass, which highlights its clarity and supports its modest head. Serve it slightly warmer than refrigerator temperature, around 50-55°F, to enhance its flavors. This beer pairs wonderfully with a variety of pub foods. Its balanced profile complements dishes such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash. The malt sweetness pairs well with roasted meats, while the hop bitterness can cut through rich and fatty foods. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a ploughman’s lunch or a mild cheddar cheese.

Variations and Experimental Brews

While traditional Best Bitter adheres to a classic malt and hop regimen, there’s room for innovation. Brewers can experiment with different malt combinations, incorporating specialty malts like CaraPils or Honey malt for added complexity. Hopping techniques can also be explored—dry hopping with traditional British hops can add a fresh, aromatic twist. Some brewers might try variations with adjuncts like honey or oats to introduce subtle flavor and mouthfeel changes. The key is to maintain the style’s balance and drinkability while exploring new, complementary elements.

Resources and References

For those interested in delving deeper into the world of Best Bitter, the following resources can provide valuable insights:

• “Brewing Classic Styles” by Jamil Zainasheff and John Palmer offers detailed recipes and insights into brewing Best Bitter and other traditional styles.
• “Designing Great Beers” by Ray Daniels provides a comprehensive guide to the principles and practices of brewing various beer styles, including Best Bitter.
• The American Homebrewers Association (AHA) website features a wealth of recipes, tips, and forums for homebrewers of all levels.
• Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) guidelines offer detailed descriptions and specifications for Best Bitter and other beer styles.

Final Thoughts

Best Bitter is a beer that embodies the rich brewing traditions of England and the artistry of crafting a balanced, sessionable brew. It’s a beer that invites you to savor its subtle flavors and appreciate the skill required to create such a refreshing and satisfying beer. Whether you’re a homebrewer looking to perfect your recipe or a beer enthusiast eager to explore new styles, Best Bitter offers a rewarding experience that’s both comforting and invigorating. So, pour yourself a pint, raise it high, and toast to the quintessential English ale that is Best Bitter. Cheers!