Scottish Ale - Homebrewing Style Guide
Scottish Ales are malt-forward, smooth-drinking beers with deep caramel notes, subtle toast, and a whisper of earthy hops. Originating from a land of cool climates, these beers are all about balance, body, and soul-warming flavor. Scottish ales deliver satisfying character with a restrained ABV, unless, of course, you go full Highlander, in which case you'll take your high ABV and throw caution (and thus your kilt) to the wind.
These beers come in several strength tiers, traditionally named after the old shilling system: 60/-, 70/-, and 80/-, corresponding to Light, Heavy, and Export ales. Then there’s the legendary Wee Heavy (90/-), a boozy malt bomb that’s aged like a fine Scotch (and often tastes like one too). They’re easy to brew with extract kits and perfect for beginner brewers looking for malty comfort with minimal hop interference. Just grab your home beer brewing equipment, no bagpipes required, but you get a bonus if you do.
Vital Statistics (BJCP Category 14 – Scottish Ales & Wee Heavy):
| Style | OG | FG | ABV | IBUs | SRM | Fermentation Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scottish Light (BJCP 14A – 60/-) | 1.030–1.035 | 1.010–1.013 | 2.5%–3.2% | 10–20 | 17–22 (light amber to brown) | 60–70°F |
| Scottish Heavy (BJCP 14B – 70/-) | 1.035–1.040 | 1.010–1.015 | 3.2%–3.9% | 10–25 | 17–22 | 60–70°F |
| Scottish Export (BJCP 14C – 80/-) | 1.040–1.060 | 1.010–1.016 | 3.9%–6.0% | 15–30 | 17–23 | 60–70°F |
| Wee Heavy (BJCP 17C) | 1.070–1.130 | 1.018–1.056 | 6.5%–10.0% | 17–35 | 14–25 (deep amber to brown) | 60–68°F |
Scottish Ale FAQ
What’s the difference between 60/-, 70/-, 80/-, and Wee Heavy?
Mostly strength. 60/- (Scottish Light) is sessionable and soft, while 70/- and 80/- step up the malt and alcohol. Wee Heavy is big, rich, and boozy, Scotland’s malt-forward answer to a barleywine.
Do Scottish Ales use a lot of hops?
Not at all. These styles keep bitterness low and use earthy UK hops like East Kent Goldings or Fuggles. Malt is the star here, and hops play backup fiddle, usually in a kilt.
What yeast should I use for a Scottish Ale?
Use a clean, low-ester English or Scottish strain. Wyeast 1728 Scottish Ale is a classic option, emphasizing malt character while staying clean and dry.
Can Wee Heavy be aged like a strong ale?
Absolutely. Wee Heavies improve with age, deepening in complexity and smoothing out over time. Try our Wee Olde Lizzie Scotch Ale, bottle a few, and taste the magic after a year (or three).
Is it true you have to brew Scottish Ale while wearing a kilt?
Only if you're brave enough. But be warned: brewing accidents hurt more when you're going commando. Proceed responsibly, and remember, yeast doesn’t care what you’re wearing.