The Brewery: “Wimbledon has a long and illustrious brewing history. The new brewery is based on the site of Merton Priory which was brewing throughout the Middle Ages until its dissolution in 1538. One William Watney ran the Wheatsheaf Brewery in the Crooked Billet area of Wimbledon in the 18th century. His direct descendants went on to establish the famous Watney brewing empire…..”
The Beer: “Named after Wimbledon’s historic Common, this pale ale is burnished gold in colour with a bright sparkle. The aroma has spicy orange notes with a light malt fruitiness. The middle palate is clean with the Maris Otter malt character coming through with orange fruits making a re-appearance, merging with the final refreshing bite of bitterness.”
Well I didn’t cop too much of the orange flavour thankfully. Not my favourite style of ale as I’ve said many times but on what was quite a long night it was good to start with something lighter. Another one I’d say that , served a little colder, would be very enjoyable on a warm summers’ night. 3.7% A.B.V.
The Lyric, Soho, London. February 2020.