When it comes to fermenting craft beer, there are many styles and variations to explore. Two popular categories that often get confused are sour ales and wild ales. While they may seem similar, Wild Ales aren’t necessarily Sour Ales, and Sour Ales aren’t necessarily Wild Ales. There are key differences that set them apart.
What are Sour Ales?
Sour ales are a type of beer that is intentionally brewed to have a tart or acidic taste. This unique flavor profile is achieved through the use of specific yeast strains and bacteria during the fermentation process. The result is a refreshing and tangy beer that can range from mildly sour to intensely puckering.
What are Wild Ales?
Wild ales, on the other hand, are a broader category of beer that encompasses any beer fermented with wild yeast or bacteria. This can include sour ales, but also extends to other styles such as farmhouse ales and mixed fermentation beers. Wild fermenting strain be derived from the actual wild – it also can come from a pure culture of some particular bug like Lactobacillus (Lacto), Pediococcus (Pedio) or Brettanomyces (Brett). Wild ales often have complex and funky flavors that are influenced by the microorganisms present in the brewing environment.
Key Differences
One of the main distinctions between sour ales and wild ales is that all sour ales are considered wild ales, but not all wild ales are sour. While sour ales specifically focus on creating a sour flavor profile, wild ales encompass a wider range of flavors and characteristics that come from wild fermentation.
Additionally, sour ales tend to have a more pronounced tartness and acidity compared to other wild ales. The sourness in these beers is a defining feature, whereas wild ales can exhibit a variety of flavors beyond just sourness.
Overall, both sour ales and wild ales offer beer enthusiasts a unique and diverse tasting experience. Whether you prefer the sharp tang of a sour ale or the complex funkiness of a wild ale, exploring these styles can open up a whole new world of flavors in the craft beer landscape.