What most differentiates Amber Ale from Red Ale is amber beers lacking of red’s lactic acid character. Amber ales are mostly pleasant easy drinking beers, not particularly high in alcohol and are not at all sour. Belgian “session” beers. As with most Belgian beer, the hopping rates are typically on the low side, although of all Belgian styles – excluding pils – it is probably the hoppiest.
One exceptional example of a world-class amber ale is De Koninck, although it is reputed to decline in caliber the further you get from it’s home in Antwerp.
Other examples of amber ale are Artevelde Grand Cru, Bruegel, the various versions of Palm and, though it is a bit strong for this classification, Pauwel Kwak. These beers range from around 5% to 7% ABV. Houten Kop is an amber ale with a twist, it is a bit hoppy and spiced. This combination gives it a unique and delightful flavor.