Diebolt Brewing 'Girlfriend is Bitter' ESB Style Beer, Colorado

British malt takes the lead in Diebolt Brewing's 'Girlfriend is Bitter' ESB-style beer, a 6.1% ABV Extra Special Bitter developed by father-and-son brewers Dan and Jack Diebolt. British pale malts, a restrained addition of crystal malt, and generous East Kent Golding hopping create a beer the brewery describes as more malty than bitter. It is a satisfying choice for drinkers drawn to the balance and malt character of a traditional pub ale.

Product Details:

• Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 6.1%.
• Malts: British pale malts with a small addition of crystal malt.
• Hops: East Kent Golding.
• Recipe Collaboration: Developed together by Daniel “Dan” Diebolt and Jack Diebolt.
• Production: Brewed, fermented, and packaged onsite at Diebolt Brewing Company.
• Owners: Dan and Jack Diebolt.
• Head Brewer: Jack Diebolt.

Sensory Description:

A malt-led profile gives this ESB its central appeal, with British pale malt providing a bready foundation and crystal malt adding a gentle caramel accent. East Kent Golding hops bring an earthy, lightly herbal counterpoint. Bitterness supports the malt rather than overwhelming it, creating a rounded balance of grain sweetness and hop definition that suits an unhurried pint.

Brewer’s Background:

Diebolt Brewing Company opened in Denver’s Sunnyside neighborhood in 2013, bringing together Dan Diebolt’s homebrewing experience and his son Jack’s interest in brewing and family heritage. French-inspired ales helped establish the brewery’s identity, followed by a broader range of British, American and continental styles. The family-owned operation brews, ferments and packages its beer onsite in a former 1950s meat-packaging building, using a 15-barrel brewhouse. Girlfriend is Bitter reflects that family connection directly through Dan and Jack’s shared recipe development.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve around 46–54°F in a nonic pint glass, allowing the malt character to emerge as the beer warms slightly. Pair with steak-and-ale pie, roast chicken, bangers and mash or a mushroom-and-onion tart. Its balance also suits a cheddar ploughman’s plate, while salted pretzels, roasted nuts and pork scratchings make straightforward snacks. Store refrigerated and enjoy fresh.