Paul Zocco

Some of the most flavorful and misunderstood beers come from Scotland. Wee Heavy and Shilling Ales once dominated pubs and tap lists, but have lost favor for more hop-forward styles. However, these beers, and their history, are worth a closer look.

• Craft Beer Scene

The Scottish 80, also called an “export” by the BJCP guidelines, is a strong ale by Scottish standards. The export name means that this is an ale with a higher alcohol content (3.9 to 4.9 percent) that was intended to survive trans-Atlantic voyages.

• Beer Recipe
• All Grain Recipe
• Scottish-Style 80- Shilling Ale

The Scottish 70-Shillings are similar to the 60s, but with a more pronounced malt presence

• Homebrew Recipe
• 70 Shilling Ale

The first impression when drinking this amber-brown ale is a malty nose with subdued hops aroma. The flavor is soft malt that may have a touch of smokiness and toastiness. The use of roasted barley brings out a soft, complex background.

• Beer Recipe
• Scottish-Style 60 Shilling Ale

Whether or not you have a farmhouse, you can brew these interesting farmhouse ale styles.

• Making Beer
• Brewing Techniques and Advice

Brew this spicy sessionable saison (say that fast 3 times!).

• Beer Recipe
• Saison Recipe
• All Grain Recipe

Brew this saison that is modeled on Saison Dupont, the definitive example of this beer style.

• Beer Recipe
• Saison Recipe
• All Grain Recipe

Here’s a conventionally made saison with the OG kicked up to 1.080 and a good dose of Chinese white pepper and bitter orange peel.

• Beer Recipe
• Saison Recipe
• All Grain Recipe

This bière de garde version is possibly the definitive representation of the style.

• Beer Recipe
• Biere de Garde Recipe
• All Grain Recipe

Here’s a version of bière de garde that is a bit higher in alcohol and somewhat sweeter, with a pleasant honey aroma and flavor.

• Beer Recipe
• Biere de Garde Recipe
• All Grain Recipe