The Ale Archive

What they say? Well www.ratebeer.com has this as the commercial description: “A Spellbinding Brew. Double, double ,toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble. Eye of newt and toe of frog were not used in this magical brew. The Master Brewer used his mystical charm, waved his magic wand, and turned the malt and hops into a spellbinding ale for Halloween. This wicked beer will cast its spell on you. “ Hmm. Another special from the Faversham brewery on the shelves or my local Lidl for just 99p. At 3.8% A.B.V it’s the right strength - and price for a party. Nothing special about the flavour - it didn’t excite but certainly didn’t offend either November 2016

What they say: “A strong premium beer of structured quality dominated by elaborate fruity hop notes, with a grainy background and dry finish. “ Yeah, those pesky hops did dominate a little but it was quite refreshing. 5.0% A.B.V. November 2016

What they say: “Is there such a thing as a black IPA? There is now! Whichever way you look at it, Proper Black challenges the senses. Black as stout, but the taste is classic IPA. Powerful hops dominate the restrained chocolate and coffee notes. Whatever you thought you knew about beer, we’ve just challenged it.” Loved this. Had a couple of black IPA’s in the past but this is my favourite, although at 6.0% A.B.V it’s not one too slosh back, particularly on a school night. November 2016.

What they say: “A combination of Maris Otter pale malt and fine wheat malt, give this refreshing beer real zest. Add refreshing Yakima Galena and Cascade hops and what you get is a fantastic wheat beer that will hole any passing thirst.” It was certainly refreshing although as regulars will know it’s not my favourite ale style. Tasty enough though and the last beer to be sampled on our half-term break in Warwickshire at www.somerswood.co.uk .  4.1% A.B.V The Rose Villa Tavern , Birmingham. October 2016