#CreamAle July 13

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During the month of July, I have taken up the 30-Day Curiosity Coach4aday Challenge, and today’s focus is on the origins of CREAM ALE.

The mechanics of this challenge involve presenting a question and subsequently uncovering the optimal response.

July 13th Curiosity Question

Where and when did the beer style Cream Ale come into existence?

Many that know me realize I track on Untappd the different beers I try. Presently I am at 1221 unique brews that I have tried since 2014.

Of those 1221 only 2 have been Cream Ales. Last week I read an article about different beer styles that owe their existence to the United States. One of the 11 mentioned was cream ale.

July 13th Answer on Cream Ale

Cream Ale, a beer style that combines elements of both ales and lagers, is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. The exact time and place of its creation are not well-documented, making it challenging to attribute its origins to a specific brewery or brewer.

While the exact brewery or brewer associated with the first cream ale remains elusive, some notable American breweries played a significant role in popularizing the style. Breweries such as Genesee Brewing Company in New York and Spoetzl Brewery (maker of Shiner) in Texas were early adopters and producers of cream ale in the early 20th century.

It typically has a light to medium body, a pale straw to golden color, and a crisp, clean flavor profile. Cream ales often have a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, despite being fermented with ale yeast.