Black Flannel Academy

Grape Ale

top-fermented · wild-fermented

Combines the profile of a sparkling wine and a relatively neutral base beer, allowing the aromatic qualities of the grape to blend pleasantly with hop and yeast aromatics.

Color

4 – 8 SRM

Bitterness

10 – 30 IBU

Alcohol

6.0 – 8.5% ABV

Sweetness

Balance

Low bitterness; mild tartness acceptable but should not approach sourness.

History

Historical Development

An Italian craft style combining winemaking and brewing traditions.

Modern Evolution

Classic characteristics

Appearance

Color perception varies by fruit tint. Medium-high to high carbonation.

Aroma

Grape character is noticeable but should not overpower base malt. Hop aroma ranges from restrained to absent. Clean fermentation typical; banana and bubblegum are faults.

Flavor

Grape intensity ranges subtle to medium-high, with fruit flavors appropriate to the grape variety. Malt is supportive, pale varieties preferred. Low bitterness; mild tartness acceptable but should not approach sourness. No Brett character.

Mouthfeel

Medium-high to high carbonation. Body ranges low to medium with acidity contributing to a dry perception. Finish is dry and crisp.

Flavor Profile Deep Dive

Service notes

BJCP designation

Overall Impression: Combines the profile of a sparkling wine and a relatively neutral base beer, allowing the aromatic qualities of the grape to blend pleasantly with hop and yeast aromatics.

Comments: Strength typically 6-8.5% ABV but can range 4.5-12.5%. Grape must comprises 15-20% of the grist, sometimes exceeding 40%. Must ferments with the beer, not blended post-production.

Style Comparison: Similar base to Belgian styles (Blonde, Saison, Single) but with grapes. Not funky like Fruit Lambic.

Vital Statistics: OG: 1.059 – 1.075 | FG: 1.004 – 1.013 | IBUs: 10 – 30 | SRM: 4 – 8 | ABV: 6.0 – 8.5%

Source: BJCP 2021 Style Guidelines, bjcp.org, retrieved 2026-09-13. Vital statistics are as published; descriptive text is condensed from the published guideline.

Brewers Association designation

Style comparison

Similar Styles

Similar base to Belgian styles (Blonde, Saison, Single) but with grapes. Not funky like Fruit Lambic.

Ingredients

Grain Bill

Pils or pale base malt; grape must. Fruity-spicy or neutral yeast. No dry-hopping.