What common characteristic can amber beers exhibit?

Amber beers are known for their rich malt profiles, which often include flavors of caramel and toast. This characteristic arises from the malts used in the brewing process, which are typically kilned at higher temperatures to develop those specific flavors and colors. The caramel notes come from the Maillard reaction that occurs during the kilning of base and specialty malts, contributing sweetness and complexity to the beer.

Additionally, amber beers often utilize a balanced hop profile, allowing the malt flavors to shine through without overwhelming bitterness. The toasty notes contribute to a sense of warmth and fullness in the flavor profile. This combination of malt characteristics is what primarily defines amber beers, making them distinct from other styles that might emphasize lightness, dark chocolate flavors, or high bitterness.