Opportunity Hops

Ilkley Brewery are something of a staple in this part of the world. Producing a solid range of beers that have infiltrated the supermarket shelves of Yorkshire, they’ve done really well for themselves in their relatively short existence. So I’m looking forward to trying this IPA which hopefully builds on and adds to their core range. (more…)

Posted in Ilkley, IPA, review by Mark

Flying Dog make some punchy beers. They’re the big brash Doberman that can make even the Brew Dog seem like a cowering pup. As far as punchy goes, it doesn’t get harder hitting than Horn Dog, a 10.5% barley wine. This is a beer that possesses a loud bark and promises a bite to match.

Black as the night sky, you can almost see the fumes rising of this beauty of a barley wine as it trickles, syrup-like, into your glass. A deep tan head settles on top – this is more like a potion than a beer – but will it be trick or treat? (more…)

Posted in barley wine, Flying Dog, review by James

The Hawkshead Brewery well hopped range has been something of a revelation recently, with plenty of sites blogging about the beers and much more often than not, giving the range glowing reviews. Having recently grabbed all three of the range (NZPA, Cumbrian 5 Hop and Windermere Pale) – I thought I would provide my two pennies worth about my favourite, Windermere Pale. (more…)

Posted in Hawkshead, pale ale, review by Mark

A confession: I’m not a huge fan of the weisse beer style. I mean, I’ll drink it and I’ll enjoy it – after all, it is beer – but it’s not usually at the top of my list of choices when I’m at the bar.

However, when I saw that Thornbridge had tried their hand at the style, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. They’ve yet to disappoint me and if anyone can sell weisse beer to me, it’s this brewery. (more…)

Posted in review, Thornbridge, wheat beer by James