Beer blog: Difficult to choose my top 10 tipples of 2015
I am happy to report that the choice becomes more and more of a beery dilemma, year after year.
The number of fine beverages in pubs, bars – and even in supermarkets – presents a pleasurable head scratcher.
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Hide AdI have drunk lots of different beer brands and styles in 2015 – all in moderation of course.
And I would say I have enjoyed at least 30 stand out beers.
A stand out beer for me has to have many components. A nice bouquet, fine balance, fully flavoured, good mouthfeel and a pleasant finish and aftertaste.
I have managed to eventually identify a top 10 tipples of the year.
They are not in order of preference and also included are the watering holes where they were consumed – all destinations are very highly recommended for their consistency of beer quality and condition.
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Hide AdThe list starts with the brewery, followed by brand and then the location where I was fortunate to taste it.
Marble, Earl Grey IPA, Marble Arch, Manchester
At a whopping 6%. Smooth texture and citrus fruit laden. Balanced to perfection.
Swannay (Orkney), Pale Ale (4.7%),New Brew-M, Burnley
This refreshing, citrusy delight had the “wow factor” for me, like many do at this town centre bar.
Stancill (Sheffield), Barnsley Best Bitter(3.8%), The Junction, Castleford
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Hide AdAll beers from the wood here. You can tell the difference too. Malty smooth and refreshing - and yes, a tad woody.
Seven Brothers (Manchester), Session, Ale House, Clitheroe
Another “wow factor” beer. How did they pack so much citrus and floral flavour, in a 3.8% ale?
Big Clock (Accrington), Ghost Imperial Stout (7.5%), Hare and Hounds, Padiham
Rich,smooth and complex. Dark fruits, treacly, roasted malts. Deep flavoured excellence.
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Hide AdStewart (Edinburgh), Saison Des Pluies (4.9%), New Brew-M, Burnley
Refreshing, lemony and a hint of spice. Top three contender.
Camden Town, Camden Pils (4.6%), Nino’s, Burnley
Lemony aroma. Grapefruit, lemons and subtle spice flavours detected. A zestful delight.
Vocation (Hebden Bridge): Heart and Soul (4.4%)
This was out of a can! I was gobsmacked at all the fruitiness and refreshment in a canned beer. Mango, passion fruit and pineapple all present. A brewing masterpiece.
Everards, Tiger Bitter (4.2%), Bridge Bier Huis, Burnley
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Hide AdI drink this superb beer about twice as fast as any other. It’s so flavoursome and thirst quenching. Malt and hops are perfectly balanced.
Ghost Brewing Co. (Baildon), Heretic (5.7%), Beer Engine, Skipton
Smooth, robust and chocolate laden. Subtle smoked notes detected. Another one that wowed the palate.
So, there you have 10 tremendous tipples - in my opinion.
I’m sure 2016 will be even better, in the pursuit of quality beers.