What is Real Ale?

Real ale, also known as cask-conditioned beer, differs from other beers in that the yeast is still present in the barrel from which the beer is served. Prior to serving, the yeast is allowed time to settle, so it does not end up in your glass. The yeast in the cask allows the ale to continue to ferment on the way to the pub. The end result? A fresher, more tasty pint.

Certain bottled beers also meet CAMRA's definition of real ale; these are known as bottle-conditioned beers. In common with the cask ales served in pubs, these bottled beers have live yeast in the bottle, again leading to a fresher-tasting beer. Bottle-conditioned beers are becoming more popular, and certain brands are available in major supermarkets.

To pour bottle-conditioned beer, allow the bottle to stand still for a good length of time before pouring, to give the yeast time to settle. Open the bottle with care. Pour slowly and steadily, leaving a small quantity of liquid in the bottom of the bottle, to prevent the yeast following the ale into your glass. Sounds complicated, but is well worth the effort!

Do Your Bit for the Environment

Another benefit of real ale is that much of it is produced by small, local breweries. By drinking a locally-brewed pint, not only are you supporting your local economy, but additionally your beer will have travelled a much shorter distance to reach you. Less time on the back of a van means less carbon released into the environment, so everyone's a winner!

Our friends over at Nottingham CAMRA have launched a scheme called LocAle, especially to promote the benefits of locally-brewed beers. This initiative is likely to expand to other areas of the country soon. Please visit the Nottingham CAMRA site for more details.

For further information on real ale, visit the national CAMRA website.