North American amber ales are beers which range from light copper to light brown in color (with some termed red ales if the color warrants). They are characterized by American-variety hops used to produce high hop bitterness, flavor, and medium-to-high aroma. Amber ales have medium-high to high maltiness with medium to low caramel character. They usually have medium to medium-high body. The style may have a slight fruity (esteryy) flavor and aroma. The butter-like influences of diacetyl may be barely perceived. A little haze from yeast is acceptable for bottle-conditioned products.
Commercial examples include Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale.
