As you know craft beer has become increasingly popular in the UK in recent years, with a growing number of small breweries popping up around the country although we understand some have come into issues recently, post COVID and BREXIT.
However, one such brewery Eight Arch Brewing, we are based in located in Wimborne, Dorset, and we specialize in brewing a range of high-quality craft beers. While the brewery doesn’t specifically produce real ale, it does share some of the same qualities as this traditional British beer.
Here at Eight Arch Brewing, the focus is on using only the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods to create beers that are full of flavor and character. Our beers range from IPAs and stouts to pilsners and Black IPA’s, and each one is carefully crafted to ensure the perfect balance of taste and aroma. In many ways, this commitment to quality and tradition is similar to the ethos of real ale.
We are going to take a closer look at the world of craft beer and explain what we think some of the key differences between real ale and craft beer are. We’ll also highlight some of the unique qualities of Eight Arch Brewing beers, and how they reflect the growing popularity of craft beer in the UK. Whether you’re a fan of real ale, craft beer, or just looking to expand your knowledge of the beer world, hopefully we will provide you with a better understanding of the nuances and subtleties of different types of beer.
So, what is real ale?
Real ale is a type of beer that has been brewed using traditional methods and ingredients, without any additional carbonation. The term “real ale” is often used to refer to British cask-conditioned ales that are served directly from the cask without any added pressure (You would normally see this from the normal hand-pull on the front of a bar).
At Eight Arch Brewing, the focus is on brewing great beer and we actually produce both Cask and Kegged beer. However, many of the same principles that apply to real ale also apply to the brewery’s beers. Like real ale, Eight Arch’s beers are brewed using only natural ingredients. Additionally, many of our beers are served across all three formats Keg, Cask and Can but they still maintain a level of authenticity and quality that is similar to that of “real ale”.
One of the key differences between real ale and craft beer is the level of carbonation. Real ale is served without any additional carbonation, which means that it has a softer, more natural feel in the mouth. Craft beer, on the other hand (kegged & canned), may have more carbonation, which can create a different mouthfeel and affect the flavor and aroma of the beer.
Overall, while we do not specifically produce real ale, we commit to using only natural ingredients and traditional brewing methods means that its beers share many of the same qualities as this classic British beer style. Whether you’re a fan of real ale or craft beer, there is something to appreciate about the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into producing a high-quality pint from any brewery.
OK, so craft beer then?
Craft beer produced by small, independent breweries. Unlike mass-produced beers, craft beers are typically brewed in small batches, which allows for greater creativity and experimentation with different styles, flavors, and aromas.
One of the key differences between craft beer and mass-produced beer is the level of creativity and experimentation that goes into the brewing process. Craft brewers like us are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible with beer, experimenting with new ingredients, styles, and brewing techniques to create beers that are both delicious and unique.
While craft beer shares many of the same principles as real ale, it is not always served in the same way. Craft beer can be served on tap, in bottles, or in cans, and may be carbonated to varying degrees. This can affect the flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel of the beer, creating a diverse range of options for beer enthusiasts to explore.
Overall, craft beer is an exciting and dynamic category of beer that is constantly evolving and expanding. Here the commitment to quality and creativity in brewing ensures that each beer is a true work of art, worthy of exploration and enjoyment by real ale and craft beer enthusiasts alike.
The big question – Real Ale vs. Craft Beer
Real ale and craft beer are two distinct categories of beer that share many similarities but also have several key differences.
As discussed earlier, real ale is a type of British cask-conditioned ale that is served directly from the cask without any added pressure. Real ale is brewed using traditional methods and ingredients, and is typically characterized by a softer, more natural feel in the mouth due to the absence of additional carbonation. In contrast, craft beer is a type of beer that is brewed using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, often by small, independent breweries. Craft beer is characterized by its creativity and experimentation, with a wide range of styles, flavors, and aromas.
One of the main differences between real ale and craft beer is the level of carbonation. Real ale is served without any additional carbonation, while craft beer may be carbonated to varying degrees. This can affect the mouthfeel and flavor of the beer, with real ale being softer and smoother in the mouth, and craft beer having a crisper and more effervescent feel.
Another key difference between real ale and craft beer is the serving method. Real ale is typically served on cask, while craft beer may be served on tap, in bottles, or in cans. While cask ale can be a great way to experience the natural flavors and aromas of the beer, craft beer offers greater flexibility in terms of serving options and can be enjoyed in a wide range of settings.
Overall, both real ale and craft beer offer unique and enjoyable drinking experiences, with their own distinct characteristics and flavor profiles.
Real Ale vs. Craft Beer: Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between real ale and craft beer comes down to tradition, brewing methods, and personal preference. Real ale is a traditional British cask-conditioned ale that is brewed using traditional methods and ingredients, while craft beer is a more modern beer brewed using high-quality ingredients, often by small, independent breweries.
At Eight Arch Brewing, the focus is on producing high-quality beer. Whether you prefer the traditional, natural feel of real ale or the bold, innovative flavors of craft beer, there is something for everyone at Eight Arch Brewing.
Ultimately, the choice between real ale and craft beer is a matter of personal preference. Both real ale and craft beer offer unique and enjoyable drinking experiences, and it is up to you to decide which one suits your taste buds best.
So whether you are a fan of traditional British ales or the more experimental and creative craft beer scene, be sure to check out the offerings here. and experience the best of both worlds. Cheers to great beer, whether it’s real ale or craft beer!