The Ale Archive

What they say: “A fine brew from McMullen at The Whole Hop Brewery, combining natural whole leaf arome hops, best Suffolk malted barley and McMullen’s own pure spring water. Late hopping adds a subtlety to the traditional recipe, creating a truly distinctive taste for the ale connoisseur.” I first tried McMullen beers just over a year ago at one of their pubs near Enfield and enjoyed them all so was delighted to find another, this time in bottled form. Strong, but didn’t taste especially so to my palate. Enjoyed. 5.0% A.B.V. February 2018.

What they say: “India Pale Ale is a full-bodied beer that all cask ale connoisseurs will recognise as a “classic”. We use specially kilned amber malt to give it its deep rich flavours. One of our head brewers favourites.” The third and sadly last of the McMullen beers we got to try during our stay in Hertfordshire. Another great pint. 4.8% A.B.V. The Plough , Crews Hill, Enfield, Middlesex. December 2016

What they say “As one of the longest established ales in the UK, the quality of AK comes from 180 years of brewing experience at The Whole Hop Brewery. Our award-winning bitter uses a carefully balanced mixture of pale ale and chocolate malts to give a soft malty taste, while WGV hops give a light fragrant aroma and clean finish. A popular and refreshing easy-drinking bitter” Another McMullen ale from our time in Hertfordshire and another very enjoyable pint brewed just up the road in Hertford. Just 3.7% A.B.V The Plough , Crews Hill, Enfield, Middlesex. December 2016

What they say: “Our Head Brewer has combined the finest East Anglian Ale malted barley with a subtle blend of Crystal Malt and Caramalt with McMullen’s own pure spring water. The addition of whole leaf Fuggle, Bramling Cross and Golding Hops at different stages of the brewing process gives a golden bitter with hints of citrus and spicy berries for a well balanced beer.” My first taste of McMullen beer – and the 400th to be added to the archive – and what a lovely pint it was. Clearly well kept and served at the perfect temperature. Everything I like in a beer. The food was good too. 4.3% A.B.V The Plough , Crews Hill, Enfield, Middlesex. December 2016