The Ale Archive

The Brewery: “Since 2002, much of the original brewing plant was moved to the Wychwood brewery in Witney, West Oxfordshire (owned by Marstons). Following a major refurbishment of the Wychwood brewery Brakspear Bitter is still handcrafted in the original copper and the famous Henley ‘Double-Drop’ fermentation system……..In May 2013, we re-established our brewing roots in Henley, opening the Bell Street Brewery.” The Beer: “Brewed in Oxfordshire using the famous Henley ‘double-drop’ fermentation system  in Victorian copper fermentation vessels from the original Henley brewery. This amber ale has a crystal malt and a well hopped bitterness in taste, which transforms into a bittersweet and fruity finish with a good fruit, hop and malt nose. A superb session beer which is ideal with foods such as fine English cheeses, Ploughman’s and fish and chips” Well, this was sampled in Bell Street so there’s a good chance that it was brewed just a few metres away. Didn’t really hit the spot for me ...

What they say: “Oxford Gold has a citrusy flavour with a fresh and zesty fruity finish. This pale ale has a gold, glittery glisten with crystal malts to enhance the body of the beer. The fresh aroma is contributed by a selective blend of Fuggles, Goldings and Styrian hops. Oxford Gold is the perfect accompaniment for fish, chicken and salad dishes.” Have had this a number of times as it often crops up in assorted boxes from supermarkets. A nice summer ale and as it was – unbelievably – a warm summers day when I drank it, it went down well, although being a golden, not my favourite. 4.6% A.B.V August 2016.