Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

Which of the following beer styles is generally characterized by a high hop content?

1. Stout

2. Porter

3. Pale Ale

4. Wheat Beer

The correct answer is: Pale Ale

The correct choice is Pale Ale, which is noted for its significant hop character. Pale Ales, particularly American Pale Ales, are brewed with a variety of hops to deliver a prominent hoppy aroma and flavor, often featuring citrusy, piney, or floral notes. The hop content is a defining aspect of this style and contributes to its refreshing and well-balanced profile. Stouts and Porters, while they may contain some hop bitterness, are primarily recognized for their dark malts and rich flavors like chocolate and coffee. These styles generally do not emphasize hop characteristics to the same degree as Pale Ales. Wheat Beers, on the other hand, are typically brewed with a large proportion of wheat and highlight yeast character and fruitiness rather than hop bitterness. Therefore, when focusing on high hop content, Pale Ale is clearly the standout choice.