THE JOURNAL
With summer now in full swing and parts of the world experiencing record-breaking temperatures, one thing we can all agree on is the need for a quick drink. A possibly more contentious issue is what to crack open. For those who are particularly parched, an ice-cold beer, shot enticingly with condensation provocatively running down from the bottle, can, as the slogan goes, refresh the parts other beverages cannot reach. Widely available bog-standard conglomerate lager doesn’t always hit the spot, however. The craft beer revolution has opened up our taste buds to bolder flavours, but a wealth of choice can lead to indecision. Do you, for instance, opt for an IPA or try something else?
“Sour beers are perfect for summer,” says Mr Tom McKim, director of London beer shop chain Clapton Craft. Popularised in Belgium, these beers employ somewhat unpredictable wild yeast to create a beer that is, as the name suggests, often tart to the taste. Warm fermented beers known as gose, from the German town Goslar, also typically feature a salty bitterness that will quench a thirst. Or you could indeed go for a trusty pale ale. For more inspiration, drink in the eight refreshing brews below, selected by some of Britain’s best beer shops.
Sours
Wild Feijoa Sour by 8 Wired
As recommended by Mr Wes Anson, co-founder, Kill The Cat, London E1
“8 Wired is a New Zealand brewery known for its variety and outstanding quality. This Wild Ale uses feijoa, a tart, sherbet-like fruit found all over New Zealand. Aged in wine barrels, this annual release is spritzy, puckeringly sour and extremely refreshing.”
Strawberry And Cucumber Sour by Brick Brewery
As recommended by Mr Tom McKim, director, Clapton Craft, London E5
“In my opinion, no one is making better sours than Brick Brewery in Deptford. Its Melon And Rose Sour is excellent. I haven’t had a chance to try its new Strawberry And Cucumber Sour yet, but we’ll definitely be stocking it.”
Pale Ales
DDH American Pale Ale by The Inkspot Brewery
As recommended by Mr Bradley Ridge, proprietor, Art & Craft, London SW16
“A crisp amber-hued pale ale with a light malt backbone, crammed full of American hops for a clean, tropical aroma and taste. Walks with a London swagger, but wears an aloha shirt – perfect for summer drinking.”
See Side APA by Bison Beer
As recommended by Mr Jack Cregan, co-founder, Bison Beer, Brighton
“Brewed with super fruity and tropical American hops giving it a hazy appearance, juicy backbone and easy finish. Best enjoyed on the beach with the wind running through your hair – if you’re lucky enough to still have any.”
Clwb Tropicana by Tiny Rebel
As recommended by Mr Mark Westcott of Craft & Courage, London SE19
“Like adult Lilt – refreshing and super smashable in the sunshine.”
Stout
Never Forget Your Amethyst by Neon Raptor
As recommended by Mr Os Morgan, Director, Kraft Werks, Nottingham
“This huge imperial milk stout – brewed with mint chocolate and Turkish delight – is by Nottingham’s newest and highly rated big hitter, Neon Raptor. It shows these guys’ talent. Definitely one to watch for in 2019.”
Goses
Triple Fruited Gose White Guava & Orange Peel by North Brewing Co
As recommended by Ms Josie Coetser, co-founder, Craft Beer Cabin, London SE25
“It’s fresh, sour, fruity, hazy and tastes like summer holidays.”
Doobie by Gypsy Hill
As recommended by Mr Dave Hancock, general manager, The Douglas Fir, London SE20
“A stunning 4.8 per cent gose brewed with loads of passion fruit purée, then salted in the boil with Himalayan rock salt. A summer barbecue party in a can.”
