What is a key characteristic of the flavor profile for ales?

The key characteristic of the flavor profile for ales is their medium to fuller body. Ales are typically brewed using top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, which often results in a richer, more robust flavor compared to lagers. This brewing method contributes to a higher ester and phenol production, leading to a variety of complex flavors ranging from fruity to spicy, which are more pronounced in medium to fuller-bodied ales.

While lighter bodies can be found in some ales, they are not defining traits across the category. The subtle flavor options are more typical of lagers, which tend to be cleaner and less complex. Similarly, a crisp finish is often more associated with lagers, which have a refreshing and clean taste, rather than the richer, fuller mouthfeel of ales. Thus, the medium to fuller body is what primarily defines the flavor complexity and richness often found in ales.