The Source

Beer is Britain’s national drink, and this country is one of the world’s leading brewing nations. Not only did Britain historically have the biggest influence in spreading the love of beer around the world, but more styles of beer first brewed here are now brewed globally than those of any other brewing nation.  These include India Pale Ale (IPA), Pale Ale, Porter, Stout, Imperial Russian Stout, Mild, Bitter, Barley Wine, Brown Ale, and Scotch Ale. Britain’s soils and climate means that farmers grow world-class barley and hops – two of the four primary ingredients of beer (the other two are water and yeast) so there is plenty to celebrate!

The focus of Beer Day Britain which takes place every summer in the middle of June, is the National Cheers To Beer toast at 7pm when beer drinkers around the UK unite at the pub, in the park, or at home to perform the simple activity of raising a glass and posting a social media message with the hashtag #CheersToBeer.

People often ask me what my favourite beer is.  I answer by saying that it depends on my mood, the weather, the circumstances, the location, and the company.  Two styles I really enjoy are the bitter, aromatic India Pale Ale, and Porter with luscious coffee and liquorice flavours.  Those beers could not be more opposite in how they look and taste and are a good example of the diversity of beer styles. 

Britain is in a golden age for brewing with hundreds of incredible independent breweries making inventive and delicious brews.  Here are five suggestions for British brewed beers to drink on Beer Day Britain and every other day!

Virago IPA by Brewster’s Brewing Company. A scrumptiously aromatic beer where bitterness is balanced with malt sweetness. Match it with a selection of British cheese such as Lincolnshire Poacher, Double Gloucestershire, and Blue Stilton.

British Pilsner by Utopian Brewing. A fabulous version of Pilsner lager brewed with English malt and English hops, including a variety called Boadicea, the world’s first aphid resistant hop.  Match it with a Ploughman’s Lunch.

White Noise by Yeastie Boys. This ultra-pale beer contains wheat as well as barley, and has a delicate flavour, with notes of orange blossom and vanilla, and low bitterness. It pairs beautifully with grilled white fish.

Lo-Fi by Signature Brew.  Hard to believe by its full flavour and a refreshing hit of citrus that this pale ale is 0.5% ABV and so is classified as no alcohol. To put that in context, 4 ripe bananas contain more alcohol than this beer does. A perfect beer to drink in the sun for an al fresco lunch. It pairs very well with picnic food such as Scotch egg and asparagus quiche.

Full Fathom 5 by North Brewing Company. This is a coffee and coconut Porter. A big full flavoured beer that is fantastic with chocolate or caramel flavoured desserts.

Cheers!

Jane Peyton is an accredited beer sommelier, cider sommelier, drinks educator, and writer.  Her latest book is ‘The Philosophy of Beer’ Signed copies available here.

Her e-learning platform offers inexpensive and convenient Beer, Cider, and Wine knowledge courses. More information here.