Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

What is the primary characteristic of a cream ale?

1. Dark color

2. Light body

3. High bitterness

4. High alcohol content

The correct answer is: Light body

A cream ale is primarily characterized by its light body, which contributes to its overall refreshing and easy-drinking profile. This style of beer typically has a crisp and smooth mouthfeel, making it very approachable for a wide range of beer drinkers. The light body is often complemented by moderate carbonation, further enhancing its drinkability. The other characteristics associated with cream ales reinforce their overall profile. They generally have a pale golden color and are brewed to be low to moderate in bitterness, which makes them very different from darker, higher-bitter styles. Additionally, their alcohol content is usually on the lower end, typically ranging from 4.2% to 5.6% ABV, which aligns with their light body feature. This combination makes cream ales a popular choice for those seeking a flavorful yet sessionable beer experience.