Hybrid Beer Styles

Hybrid beers are those that don’t fit neatly into either the ale or lager category. There are relatively few examples of them. The difference usually lies in the unique technique used to brew them. California common, for instance, is brewed with a lager or bottom fermenting yeast but it is fermented at an unusually high temperature for lagers. Hybrids are typically dry like lagers but retain malty flavors.

California Common or steam beer

Often called steam beer, California common is a dark lager and one of the few styles created outside of Europe. This is well hopped beer has a medium body and flavor.

Commercial examples include Anchor Steam and Flying Dog Old Scratch Amber Lager.

Homebrewer stats: OG: 1.048 – 1.054 IBU: 30 - 45

Kolsch

This ale is fermented at unusually low temperatures. It is generally cloudy and blonde. With light malt flavor and a bit of a fruity tang, this is a refreshing beer.

Commercial examples include Reissdorf and Goose Island Summertime.

Homebrewer stats: OG: 1.040 – 1.055 IBU: 15 – 30