The 11 Best American Amber/Red Ales of 2022

While not the sexiest style of today, American ambers have played a significant part in the American craft brewing revolution.
A branch off the traditional American pale ale first popularized on the West Coast, ambers gained popularity across the U.S. in the 1980s.
Accordingly, at many of the bigger regional breweries across America you'll find a popular amber ale in their arsenal. For instance, New Belgium's Fat Tire, Odell's 90 Shilling, or Highland Brewing's Gaelic Ale.
And for good reason.
Named after its gorgeous red hue, American amber ales get their characteristic color from a combination of caramel and crystal malts in the grist. Often roasted, these malts also give amber beers a decent body, toasty profile, and significant maltiness that many drinkers have come to appreciate.
In contrast to its pale ale cousin, amber or red ale tends to be a bit richer in mouth feel and with a bigger body. Imagine drinking one around the fire during the cold autumn or cold winter months in the Pacific Northwest and it's pretty easy to see how this style found its place on the shelf.
Expect notes of toffee, caramel, and roast with just a shiver of an American hop bitterness running through it.
Consider American amber/red ales a great gateway beer to pale ales and eventually IPAs. For that reason, take a look at some of the most popular versions on Untappd right now.
Untappd's 11 Highest-Rated American Amber/Red Ales of the Year

1. Study Hall - Burlington Beer Company
2. African Amber - Mac & Jack's Brewing Company
3. Blood of the Unicorn - Pipeworks Brewing Company
4. 90 Shilling - Odell Brewing Co.
5. Red Jacket Amber Ale - Keweenaw Brewing Company
6. Gaelic Ale - Highland Brewing Company
7. Metamodern - Reuben's Brews

5.5% ABV
N/A IBU
1,066 Ratings
8. Fat Tire - New Belgium Brewing Company
9. Louie's Demise - Milwaukee Brewing Company
10. Sabre-Toothed Squirrel - Smog City Brewing Co.
11. Chronic Amber Ale - Pizza Port Brewing Company
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