Heineken typically contains 23 IBUs (International Bitterness Units).
Understanding Heineken's Bitterness Profile
Heineken, a globally recognized pale lager, offers a crisp and balanced taste profile, with its bitterness contributing to its refreshing character. The International Bitterness Unit (IBU) scale quantifies the hop bitterness in beer, primarily derived from iso-alpha acids. A value of 23 IBUs places Heineken in the moderate bitterness range, which is characteristic of its style.
What are IBUs?
IBUs measure the concentration of hop compounds in beer that contribute to its bitterness. A higher IBU number generally indicates a more bitter beer. For context, light lagers often have IBUs in the single digits, while India Pale Ales (IPAs) can range from 40 to over 100 IBUs. Heineken's 23 IBU count ensures it remains approachable and widely appealing, balancing the malt sweetness with a perceptible hop presence.
Heineken at a Glance
The brewing specifications for Heineken highlight its identity as a classic pale lager, known for its consistent quality and taste. Here’s a quick overview of some of its key characteristics:
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Colour | 7 EBC |
| Style | Pale lager |
| Original Gravity | 1.044–1.048 |
| IBU Scale | 23 |
This combination of specifications results in a beer that is light in color, moderate in body, and provides a clean, refreshing finish, making it a popular choice worldwide.
For more detailed information on Heineken, you can explore its history and brewing process.
