I recently spotted Marston’s Pedigree VSOP at 6.7% ABV, retailing at £2.25 for a 500ml bottle (67p a unit). The bottle label says this “delivers a rich complex pale ale with an opulent and luxurious finish”. The one I sampled was distinctly lighter than its Greene King counterparts, but didn’t really seem to drink its strength, and – in common with several other Marston’s bottled ales – demonstrated poor head retention. There is another in the cupboard awaiting a second opinion. Another one from the Marston’s stable is Wychwood King Goblin (6.6%), which I haven’t tried yet, but which didn’t impress The Ormskirk Baron.
It’s interesting that nobody from the anti-drink lobby has yet seized on this phenomenon, as they surely would if Inbev came up with a 6.7% ABV Stella brand extension. But, on the other hand, the fact that these beers sell for more per unit than their lower-strength counterparts, and that ales of this strength tend to be too rich and heavy to drink rapidly in quantity, means that in reality they have little to worry about. This category does seem to be here to stay, though, and it will be interesting to watch out for the other major producers of premium bottled ales coming up with their own variations on the style.
I enjoyed Morland Old Crafty Hen [baron rating 4/5] too (http://theormskirkbaron.blogspot.com/2010/03/morland-old-crafty-hen.html)
ReplyDeleteBut... I do find these ales to be more on the sweet side (for obvious reasons) and so they are not normally to my liking.
It's interesting how we now have 2 categories for bottled ales: 'premium' & 'super premium'!
Have you tried Adnams Innovation [baron rating 5/5]? It's a great example of a strong beer (6.7%) but hoppy too so it's not overly sweet or fruity - just a great complex IPA.
I was also un-impressed with Abbot Reserve, and found it very dis-appointing. I have tried the Old Crafty Hen, and the 5X Old Ale certainly added something.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't worry about the health lobby, as like you say, these beers are an occasional treat, rather than everyday supping ales.
I agree with you Paul, I too found the Abbot Reserve to not be anything special, in fact the normal Abbot ale is miles better!
ReplyDeleteAnyone tried Suffolk Springer?
Never seen Adnams Innovation, but certainly would try a bottle if I did.
ReplyDeleteIncidentally, does this topic not underline the total lack of innovation in the lager sector as opposed to the ale sector? The only innovation in lager seems to be bringing in another lacklustre samey brew from Estonia or wherever...
Chimay Bleu, courtesy of the Trappists ,room temperature in the
ReplyDeleteCharlemagne Veterans Lodge,Gosselie
Wallonia.After Benediction of course.Simply another dimension
oh and one can smoke too.
Adieu mes amis
I dislike Abbot Reserve from the bottle, but from the cask it's rather good I reckon.
ReplyDeleteI like OCH, really, I do. Smooth. I've got a VSOP lined up for this afternoon, as it happens.
ReplyDeleteI am impressed with the price information. Something all to many bloggers forget.
ReplyDeleteInteresting post. I like OCH, it's complex but quite drinkable - maybe too drinkable for its strength.
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree about the innovation in the ale sector. The only example of that I can think in lager recently, other than lower %abv additions, is the "Artois family"
I've tried a few examples of the Pedigree VSOP now and find it does grow on me. I like its dry, relatively light character and it's a complex beer that merits exploration. You also get a powerful whiff of sulphur on opening the bottle. However, the head retention remains very poor and that is a touch offputting.
ReplyDelete