The Ale Archive

What they say: “A golden ale bursting with hoppy flavours. Brilliant with Thai curries and other Asian foods” The second of three beers from our old home town – well, city – was perhaps my least favourite. Not because of the quality which was superb but regulars will know golden ales are not generally my favourite. I bet the suggested food pairing would have been perfect though. 4.5% A.B.V. July 2017

What they say: “A dark rich coloured brew bursting with blackberry inspired fruitiness and a tangy aftertaste. Perfect with strong cheeses.” The third beer from our old home town didn’t disappoint – a wonderful combination of flavours – my only regret was that I didn’t pair it with some strong cheese as suggested as that would have been truly delicious. I’ll be sure to put that right when I can get hold of some more. 5.0% A.B.V. July 2017.

What they say: “Aroma characteristics evoke treacle, coffee and even hints of raisin. Brilliant with pork scratchings, peanuts and ready salted crisps” The first of three beers from our home town procured during our extended stay in the summer was delicious – everything I want in a bitter  and it’s strength makes it a good session beer too. 3.7% A.B.V July 2017.

What they say: “An English Ale with a distinctive flavour of dark toffee and caramel combined with a crisp bitterness derived from using rare Bramling Cross hops.” Now from the Greene King stable, I remember when this was found in Whitbread pubs alongside Trophy or Whitbread Best. Sadly not a very good example – not crystal clear and a bit of a twang. I should have sent it back but didn’t. Look forward to trying one in better nick and I’ll update. 4.3%

Not as sweet as some reds I’ve had and a little hoppier but still a very nice pint indeed. Found in one of Cambridgeshire's great village boozers. 4.3% A.B.V The Royal Oak , Barrington, July 2017

Not much about this on the brewery website, but then it was a special for the rugby world cup – in 2015! www.guestales.co.uk say this: Deep, amber coloured, moreish, toffee flavoured beer. Made with four different types of malt, some wheat and a good dose of English hops. Quite liked it, although I suspect it was coming to the end of it’s life. Full of flavour though and full bodied. 4.3% A.B.V. Stanton House Hotel , Wiltshire. July 2017

What they say: “This ale is reminiscent of the striking sunsets that can be seen from Belhaven Bay. With its refreshing citrus taste balanced against clean floral tones, this ale is certainly one to tempt the palate.” Another summer special from the Greene King stable, would have been nice to try it on a hot summer’s night but you can’t have everything. A bit insipid for me but at least it wasn’t too hoppy. Cracking pub though. The King William IV , Heydon, Cambridgeshire. July