Copyright (c) 2026 Protz On Beer, by Roger Protz https://protzonbeer.co.uk en-gb Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:31:00 BST The weather is getting warmer and it's time to unwrap with some beers from far and near. Belhaven Black Stout is a long-running Scottish favourite but it's now enjoying a national roll out in 1,000 Lidl stores. Hall & Woodhouse has a new bottled Badger beer, Iron Hart, a strong pale ale available n most major supermarkets. Siren Craft Brew offers two pale ales, an imperial stout an an oak-aged barley wine Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/04/13/celebrate-spring-with-rich-range-of-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/04/13/celebrate-spring-with-rich-range-of-ales An amber beer, brewed with rare rye crystal malt, has won CAMRA's prestigious Champion Winter Beer of Britain competition. It's brewed by Alex Woods at the London Brewing Company based in the Bohemia pub in Finchley. Sun, 15 Mar 2026 14:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/03/15/champion-beer-had-a-mountain-to-climb https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/03/15/champion-beer-had-a-mountain-to-climb St Austell Brewery in Cornwall is celebrating its 175th anniversary with a special range of cask ales, some drawn from recipes in old brewing books. They include a beer to mark Nelson's victory at Trafalgar and Trelawny named after Bishop Trelawny, a supporter of the Royalist cause during the English Civil War, who was imprisoned in the Tower of London. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 11:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/03/05/st-austell-celebrates-with-anniversary-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/03/05/st-austell-celebrates-with-anniversary-ales Ted Bruning, who has died aged 68, was a leading writer on beer, breweries and pubs. He worked for the trade paper the Morning Advertiser and was then assistant editor and editor of CAMRA's paper What's Brewing. He wrote a number of books including the Microbrewers' Handbook and Historic Inns of England. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2026/03/04/ted-bruning-sad-loss-of-fine-writer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2026/03/04/ted-bruning-sad-loss-of-fine-writer Suffolk brewer Greene King, the biggest brewer of cask ale in Britain, will launch a range of new cask beers in 2026 along with new pump clip designs. The launch comes on the back of the major success of Rocking Rudolph, its annual Christmas Beer. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/01/26/greene-king-launches-new-cask-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2026/01/26/greene-king-launches-new-cask-range Dougal Sharp (left), founder of Innis & Gunn, has joined forces with Jamie Allsopp to recreate a historic beer from the 19th century. Jamie is a direct descendant of the great Burton brewer Samuel Allsopp who made a special Arctic Ale for a British expedition to the North Pole in 1875. A bottle of the beer was found in Shropshire and was used in the new version Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2026/01/16/arctic-ale-comes-in-from-the-cold https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2026/01/16/arctic-ale-comes-in-from-the-cold Great interest is being shown by independent brewers in Porter and Stout, beer styles from the 18th century. Both Hook Norton in Oxfordshire and Heritage Brewery in Burton-on-Trent have produced versions of stout based on original recipes. Hook Norton's version is aged in oak casks for 18 months while Heritage P2 is based on Bass's P2 Export Stout sent to Russia and the Baltic States. Sun, 11 Jan 2026 12:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2026/01/11/brewers-recall-hey-day-of-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2026/01/11/brewers-recall-hey-day-of-stout The Open Gate Brewery in Covent Garden restores brewing to central London. Guinness has spent £73m on the centre that includes a 20,000-barrel brewery producing a wide range of beer including Porter that was once brewed on the site by Combe in the 18th and 19th centuries Sun, 21 Dec 2025 13:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/12/21/guinness-brings-brewing-back-to-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/12/21/guinness-brings-brewing-back-to-london It's that time of year when Santa gets stuck up the chimney after too many Christmas beers. Here is a fine selection of some of the beers available this year Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:53:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/12/08/xmas-beer-let-it-flow-let-it-flow https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/12/08/xmas-beer-let-it-flow-let-it-flow Research since the Budget shows that, far from going down, business rates for pubs will rise dramatically over the next few years. Hospitality experts say thousands more pubs will close, hut not only by business rates but high costs for energy, increases in the Minimum Wage and National Insurance plus a rise in the price of beer as duty goes up. Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/12/06/budget-business-rates-blow-to-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/12/06/budget-business-rates-blow-to-pubs AB In Bev, the world's biggest brewer, has bowed to grassroots campaigners and has launched a major promotion for Draught Bass. Bass was once Britain's leading premium cask ale, worth close to one million barrels a year, but that has fallen to 30,000 barrels and the beer has become hard to find. But now more than 1,000 pubs will serve it with new pump clips and glasses. Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/12/02/draught-bass-is-bouncing-back https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/12/02/draught-bass-is-bouncing-back An appeal to Chancellor Rachel Reeves to take urgent steps to help British pubs by removing business rates, cutting VAT and excise duty and removing anomaly where supermarkets don't pay VAT on beer sales Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/10/08/sos-to-the-chancellor-for-british-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/10/08/sos-to-the-chancellor-for-british-pubs David Bruce built his small change of Firkin pubs in the 1970s and 1980s but their story is still relevant today. He saved failed pubs and turned them into great success by making them attractive to pubgoers of all ages and both sexes. His story shows how pubs can be saved today and maintained for future generations to enjoy Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/09/09/firkin-story-can-help-save-pubs-today https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/09/09/firkin-story-can-help-save-pubs-today Martyn Cornell, who died in June, spent many years researching the history of Porter and Stout. His distilled his knowledge into a ground-breaking book that removes many of the myth surrounding the birth of a style that created the world's first major commercial brewing industry. Sun, 03 Aug 2025 13:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/08/03/porter-stout-cornell-s-superb-legacy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/08/03/porter-stout-cornell-s-superb-legacy Global brewers say demand for cask beer has fallen, forcing them to close breweries. But a growing number of independents say they are brewing back to pre-Covid levels and even beyond that. The successful indies include Bathams in the Black Country, who brew at the Vine pub (pictured). Demand for their Bitter is so high they deliver to some pubs in 54-gallon hogsheads Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/07/06/indie-success-blasts-globals-cask-claims https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/07/06/indie-success-blasts-globals-cask-claims Laura Hadland has written a superbly researched book on the history of British beer festivals. They go back to the 19th century and they were not without controversy, including topless models. CAMRA festivals started in the 1970s and have become the benchmark for today's events, with not only good beer but also food and entertainment Tue, 24 Jun 2025 09:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/06/24/festivals-beer-skittles-fun-and-frolics https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/06/24/festivals-beer-skittles-fun-and-frolics Garrett Oliver, the legendary brewmaster at the Brooklyn Brewery in New York City, has brewed a special strong dark mild using the Union set at Thornbridge Brewery. Sales of the beer will support the Michael James Jackson Foundation, created by Garrett to help people of colour working in the brewing and distilling industries. Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/06/17/brooklyn-brewmaster-s-union-mild https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/06/17/brooklyn-brewmaster-s-union-mild Hall & Woodhouse, the Dorset brewery famous for Badger beers, is producing a series of Founders Day beers to commemorate members of the Woodhouse family. The brewery will celebrate 250 years of brewing in 2027. The new beer, Frank's Integrity, salutes Frank Woodhouse, who worked at the brewery for close to 60 years and was chairman for a period. Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/06/10/badger-beer-marks-key-family-member https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/06/10/badger-beer-marks-key-family-member Martyn Cornell, a brilliant beer writer, researcher and historian of brewing, has died suddenly aged 72. He is pictured above left with his brother Dave. Martyn spent many years researching the origins of beer styles, in particular porter and stout from the 18th century. His blog Zythophile was a must-read for all lovers of beer. He died on the eve of a major new book on the history and revival of porter and stout Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/06/06/martyn-cornell-brilliant-beer-historian https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/06/06/martyn-cornell-brilliant-beer-historian Ken Don was head brewer at Young's from 1980 until it closed. He then spent many weeks at Charles Wells Brewery in Bedford where his beers were transferred. He had to train his yeast culture to work in Wells' conical vessels. The beers continued to be brewed at Bedford when Marston's bought the plant but it was then sold to Estrella Damm. Young's beer are now at Banks's but will find end at Marston's in Burton, a long way from their ancestral home Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/06/03/ken-don-legendary-young-s-brewer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2025/06/03/ken-don-legendary-young-s-brewer Hook Norton Brewery dates from the 19th century and has remained true to traditional beer and ways of brewing. It has a Victorian tower brewery and its long and fascinating history -- surviving wars, Covid and a major fire -- is well told by leading beer writer Adrian Tierney-Jones Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/04/29/hook-norton-keeping-faith-with-tradition https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/04/29/hook-norton-keeping-faith-with-tradition Craft brewers in the United States face a tough battle as they face increased competition from the global giants and now Trump's tariffs on imported grain and aluminium for cans. Brewery analyst Aaron Gore (pictured) says there's an air of doom and gloom in the craft sector as their sales are static and a number of breweries have closed. Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/04/22/u-s-craft-brewers-face-tough-battle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/04/22/u-s-craft-brewers-face-tough-battle The Chiltern Brewery has done Roger Protz the great honour of producing a special edition of its Bodgers Barley Wine called Roger's Bodgers. It's brewed with Maris Otter malting barley grown on the Rothschild's Waddeson Estate using regenerative farming that avoids fertilisers and agri-chemicals. Pictured Tom Jenkinson of Chiltern Brewery with the writer on the right. Tue, 15 Apr 2025 17:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/04/15/roger-honoured-to-become-a-bodger https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/04/15/roger-honoured-to-become-a-bodger Greene King has added to its craft and cask portfolio with two new beers. Double Header celebrates the history of its home town where King Edmund was beheaded by invading Vikings and then became a saint. Imperial IPA recalls the original IPAs of the 19th century and is based on a recipe found in the brewery archives. Sun, 23 Mar 2025 15:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/03/23/two-new-ipas-from-greene-king https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/03/23/two-new-ipas-from-greene-king Phil Mellows and Kate Simon have compiled a brilliant book that celebrates some fine British pubs along with places to stay and visit throughout the country, This is a great contribution to supporting and saving community pubs at a time when so many are closing Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/03/20/brand-new-guide-to-beer-and-travel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/03/20/brand-new-guide-to-beer-and-travel Hertfordshire grows fine grain for brewing and the county once had a multitude of malting companies. Now there's only one and McMullen is the last remaining major commercial brewer. But in his new book, Martyn Cornell reports there are now a number of new craft breweries using grain from the eastern counties Mon, 10 Mar 2025 11:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/03/10/digging-deep-for-brewing-history-in-herts https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/03/10/digging-deep-for-brewing-history-in-herts Thornbridge Brewery, which rescued a redundant Burton Union fermentation set from Marston's last year, is launching a new beer, 1838, at CAMRA's Great British Winter Beer Festival in Rotherham next week. The name commemorates the year brewer Peter Walker registered his Union system that went on to be widely used by brewers of pale ale and IPA Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:29:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/02/04/thornbridge-adds-new-union-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2025/02/04/thornbridge-adds-new-union-beer Jamie Allsopp, a descendant of the great Burton brewer Samuel Allsopp, has found recipes for IPA and Pale Ale from the 19th century and recreated them along with the famous/infamous keg beer Double Diamond. The beers are on sale at Jamie's pub, the Blue Stoops in Notting Hill, London. The pub takes its name from Allsopp's first tavern in Burton. Sun, 02 Feb 2025 16:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/02/02/allsopps-keeping-beers-in-burton-family https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2025/02/02/allsopps-keeping-beers-in-burton-family Adrian Tierney-Jones has written a remarkable book that's more than a pub guide. It charts the way in which pubs change to reflect the changing seasons, busy with visitors in summer but relying on locals in the colder months. Mon, 20 Jan 2025 12:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/01/20/a-love-affair-with-the-british-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/01/20/a-love-affair-with-the-british-pub A new book on home brewing by Andy Parker and Jamil Zainasheef will help beer lovers to create great beers at home. The book is packed with vital information about malt, hops, yeast and water and advises on the best equipment to use to get the finest results Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/01/02/how-to-make-brilliant-beers-at-home https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2025/01/02/how-to-make-brilliant-beers-at-home A superb range of beers for the festive season that make great companions for food or as stand-along drinks. The selection is from home and from Belgium Sat, 14 Dec 2024 14:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/12/14/santa-it-s-time-to-get-the-beers-in https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/12/14/santa-it-s-time-to-get-the-beers-in Thomas Hardy's Ale has had a turbulent history like one of the author's Wessex novels. First brewed by Eldridge Pope in Dorchester, it moved to O'Hanlon's and then Meantime breweries, The classic English barley wine is now owned by an Italian drinks business and a new edition has been brewed by Hepworth in Sussex. Sun, 24 Nov 2024 13:18:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/11/24/thomas-hardy-return-of-the-native https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/11/24/thomas-hardy-return-of-the-native Covid still has an impact on sales of beer today. As a result of pub lockdowns drinkers bought beer from supermarkets and chose global lagers sold at huge discounts. Now in pubs many people you would expect to drink cask ale are still choosing lager while small brewers find the route to market hard Sun, 10 Nov 2024 13:53:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/11/10/heading-for-the-last-chance-saloon https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/11/10/heading-for-the-last-chance-saloon Not content with closing Jennings, Ringwood and Wychwood, Carlsberg now plans to close Banks's in Wolverhampton, the 100,000 barrel a year brewery famous for Black Country Mild and Bitter. The Danish lager giant plans to invest £6m in expanding Marston's in Burton, its last remaining ale brewery, but it's likely that many current ale brands will disappear. Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/10/24/carlsberg-juggernaut-rolls-over-banks-s https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/10/24/carlsberg-juggernaut-rolls-over-banks-s Britain's legion of small independent brewers is tackling the problem of drinkers being misled by global lager giants who market such brands as Beavertown and Camden as indies. SIBA, the umbrella organisation for genuine independents, is placing stickers on handpumps to stress that their members' beers are genuine ales from independent producers Tue, 22 Oct 2024 09:18:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/10/22/indie-brewers-tackle-misleading-globals-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/10/22/indie-brewers-tackle-misleading-globals-1 Broughton Brewery in the Scottish Borders is celebrating 40 years of brewing Old Jock, a style known as a "Wee Heavy". It has now spawned a range of beers all with Jock in the title, including Wee Jock and Stout Jock. Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/10/15/scotland-s-beers-are-on-the-march https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/10/15/scotland-s-beers-are-on-the-march The launch of Fuller's Vintage Ale 2024 is a cause for celebration, greeted by beer lovers in common with wine buffs' welcome for the latest Bordeaux vintage. It's bottle conditioned, meaning it will age and improve due to live yeast. Vintage has been joined by a new bottle-conditioned beer, The Union, from the Thornbridge Brewery using their restored and revived Burton Union system Mon, 30 Sep 2024 12:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/09/30/corkers-let-beer-breathe https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/09/30/corkers-let-beer-breathe Emma Cole and Al Wall have restarted brewing at Burton Bridge in Burton-on-Trent and they continue to make the beers launched by the late Geoff Mumford. They also brew the beers from the Heritage Brewery that was forced to move when Molson Coors closed the National Brewery Centre Wed, 11 Sep 2024 17:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/09/11/burton-bridge-saving-beer-s-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/09/11/burton-bridge-saving-beer-s-heritage In a major study of the history of women brewers, Dr Christina Wade shows how the Black Death of the 14th century diminished their role and men came to dominate commercial beer making. But today many more women are running breweries and they ae supported by women writers and lecturers. Fri, 06 Sep 2024 12:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2024/09/06/major-study-of-role-of-women-in-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2024/09/06/major-study-of-role-of-women-in-brewing There's a growing media storm warning of the dangers of drinking alcohol. Most of the advice is based on ignorance and much of the material in newspapers comes as a result of clever campaigning and influence by the temperance movement using a number of names that cover its real intentions Wed, 04 Sep 2024 12:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/09/04/don-t-be-shy--enjoy-a-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/09/04/don-t-be-shy--enjoy-a-beer Jacob Collier has been the MP for Burton-on-Trent for only a few weeks but he's busy on the beer and brewery front. He's held a meeting wit Carlsberg to discuss the future for Marston's Brewery in the town and he's also joined the campaign to find a new home for the brewery museum, and its valuable artefacts following the closure of the National Brewery Centre Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/08/13/new-burton-mp-champions-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/08/13/new-burton-mp-champions-cask Geoff Mumford (on the right) founded Burton Bridge Brewery in 1982, one of the first small independent breweries. He has died aged 82.He worked with his business partner Bruce Wilkinson and they had both worked for Ind Coope before starting their own brewery. Their beers included Bridge Bitter and the bottled Empire Pale Ale Thu, 01 Aug 2024 11:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/08/01/geoff-mumford--beer-pioneer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/08/01/geoff-mumford--beer-pioneer Marston's has ended 190 years of brewing by selling its breweries to Carlsberg, Carlsberg, which has also bought Britvic, says it will create an integrated beer and soft drinks business, and will continue to supply ale as well as lager to pubs. But it has not committed to keeping the Marston's plants in Burton and Wolverhampton. Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/07/09/marston-s-pulls-plug-on-brewing-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/07/09/marston-s-pulls-plug-on-brewing-heritage The Heritage Brewery in Burton was forced to look for a new site when the National Brewery Centre closed. It has now merged with Burton Bridge Brewery where Geoff Mumford and Bruce Wilkinson had been brewing for 43 years and were keen to retire. The merged brewery will produce classic beers from both breweries and has plans to make some barrel-aged beers Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/07/02/burton-merger-is-good-news-for-drinkers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/07/02/burton-merger-is-good-news-for-drinkers Marston's, part of Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company, has donated a Burton Union set to Thornbridge Brewery in Derbyshire. Earlier this year CMBC said it was closing its Unions on the grounds of cost. Its brewing team went to Thornbridge to help install a set that will now brew occasional batches of Jaipur with a new beer, Union IPA. Thu, 27 Jun 2024 14:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/06/27/burton-beast-is-brewing-in-bakewell https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/06/27/burton-beast-is-brewing-in-bakewell Anchor Brewery in San Francisco, famous for its Steam Beer, has been bought by the billionaire chief executive of Chobani yogurt, who plans to reopen the plant by the end of 2024. Anchor was closed by Sapporo in 2023 and it was feared the US would lose the last producer of Steam Beer, a style that dates from the Gold Rush at the end of the 19th century. It's a beer fermented with lager yeast but at an ale temperature Sun, 09 Jun 2024 11:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/06/09/historic-anchor-ready-to-steam-again https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/06/09/historic-anchor-ready-to-steam-again Last month Bateman's Brewery in Lincolnshire celebrated its 150th anniversary with a special lunch attended by several hundred fellow brewers, retailers and beer writers. The media was noticeable by its absence. It could have interviewed Stuart and Jaclyn Bateman (pictured), the fourth generation of the family but chose to stay away. Britain is as great brewing nation but is badly served by the media Mon, 06 May 2024 12:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/05/06/beer-please-don-t-frighten-the-ponies https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/05/06/beer-please-don-t-frighten-the-ponies India Pale Ale has moved on from its Victorian origins. It's now brewed in many parts of the world and recipes vary, but too many versions today are unbalanced. Hops are an important flavouring in beer but the role of malt must not be ignored. Sun, 14 Apr 2024 12:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/04/14/beer-balance-the-importance-of-malt https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2024/04/14/beer-balance-the-importance-of-malt Adnams, the revered Suffolk brewer, has reported its needs financial support as a result of falling sales caused by Covid, lockdown and the cask ale sector in decline. Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/03/19/adnams-an-arrow-in-the-heart https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/03/19/adnams-an-arrow-in-the-heart Brewer and retailer Greene King is launching an innovative programme to boost interest in and sales of ale. It says ale is a major category in cask and keg and drinkers need to be made more aware of the category with information at the bar and special branded glasses Fri, 15 Mar 2024 14:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/03/15/greene-king-s-vision-for-ale-sector https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/03/15/greene-king-s-vision-for-ale-sector Batemans Brewery in Wainfleet, Lincolnshire, is celebrating 150 years of brewing in 2024 and has rebranded with a new logo and pump clips. It is about to launch a new cask beer called 5G to represent the fifth generation of the family to run the company. Pictured: managing director Stuart Bateman and marketing director Jaclyn Bateman Tue, 12 Mar 2024 14:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/03/12/batemans-celebrates-150th-with-new-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/03/12/batemans-celebrates-150th-with-new-ale A cash-rich City of London investment group has bought two big regional brewers and closed two London micros. Breal Group noiw owns Black Sheep and Purity and says it's on the lookout to buy further breweries that may be in trouble as a result of Covid and lockdowns. Sat, 09 Mar 2024 12:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/03/09/rich-city-group-snaps-up-indie-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2024/03/09/rich-city-group-snaps-up-indie-brewers Greene King is launching two seasonal cask ales for the spring period, Spring Break and Hopping Special are two full-bodied beers with big hop flavours. They are part of the brewery's rolling programme of cask beers available throughout the year. Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/03/07/greene-king-launches-new-cask-ales-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/03/07/greene-king-launches-new-cask-ales-1 Hook Norton, with its classic tower brewery in Oxfordshire, celebrates 175 years of brewing this year with an exciting range of cask ales that includes old favourites and some new beers. The season hicks off in style with Outside Half for the rugby season followed with Double Stout, Haymaker, Twelve Days Porter, Lock Steady and Autumn Ways. As well as cask, there will be bottled versions too. Mon, 19 Feb 2024 16:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/02/19/hooky-kicks-off-a-new-range-of-cask-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/02/19/hooky-kicks-off-a-new-range-of-cask-ales Rooster's Brewery in Harrogate celebrated 30 years of brewing in 2023 and has exciting plans for 2024, starting with a "kettle sour" Saison Wild Wild Life that has been aged in Pinot Noir barrels for 15 months. Oak-aged imperial stout and barley wine will follow Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:37:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/02/19/rooster-s-launches-saison-aged-15-months https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/02/19/rooster-s-launches-saison-aged-15-months Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company -- 6o% controlled by Carlsberg -- is to close the Burton Union system of fermentation. This follows CMBC's closure of three ale breweries, Jennings, Wychwood and Ringwood. The Burton Unions are a historic method of fermenting beer developed in the 19th century to clear beer of yeast and produce a sparkling pale ale. Sun, 04 Feb 2024 16:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/02/04/carlsberg-to-axe-historic-burton-unions https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/02/04/carlsberg-to-axe-historic-burton-unions Des de Moor on the long history of beer brewed for the India trade in the 19th century and the difference between those historic brews and modern IPAs. He discusses the role of conventional brewers' yeast and such wild strains as Brettanomyces that would have given sharply different flavours to the Victorian styles Sun, 28 Jan 2024 12:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2024/01/28/pale-ale-and-the-long-voyage-to-india https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2024/01/28/pale-ale-and-the-long-voyage-to-india National brewer and retailer Greene King has stressed its commitment to cask ale with a calendar of new beers for 2024, including a warning winter ale and a beer for the rugby season. The brewer says these beers increase customer interest and help grow sales of cask Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/01/11/greene-king-launches-new-cask-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/01/11/greene-king-launches-new-cask-ales Batemans family-owned brewery in Wainfleet, Lincs, chalks up 150 years of brewing "Good Honest Ales" with a series of celebrations throughout 2024, with a range of new beers. Head brewer Buster Grant will re-commission the Victorian brewhouse for some of the beers, using English malts and hops Thu, 11 Jan 2024 09:59:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/01/11/batemans-beer-bonanza-marks-150-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2024/01/11/batemans-beer-bonanza-marks-150-years Simon Rogan, the chef and restaurateur, has joined forces with Fell Brewery in Cumbria to fashion a stout made with the addition of woodruff leaves. It's the first of four seasonal beers the chef and brewery will make. Rogan's L'Enclume restaurant has just been named No 1 in Britain by Harden's Guide Sun, 17 Dec 2023 17:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/12/17/top-chef-helps-brew-a-cumbrian-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/12/17/top-chef-helps-brew-a-cumbrian-stout The festive season is upon us and brewers have produced a fine array of rich and warming brews that will go well with Christmas meals or enjoyed by themselves in front of a roaring fire Thu, 07 Dec 2023 17:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/12/07/santa-has-a-sackful-of-fine-xmas-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/12/07/santa-has-a-sackful-of-fine-xmas-beers Jamie Allsopp, seven times grandson of Samuel Allsopp, has restored the name and the beers of the historic brewer who was the first to make IPA in Burton-on-Trent. Jamie has used original recipes and yeast to make Pale Ale, IPA and Pilsner. The beers are currently brewed by the Kirkstall Brewery in Leeds but Jamie is looking for a site in Burton Mon, 04 Dec 2023 10:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/12/04/historic-burton-ales-restored-by-grandson https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/12/04/historic-burton-ales-restored-by-grandson Barnsley's Acorn Brewery is under new ownership with manager Liz Casserly taking over at the helm. She is a vastly experienced pub manager and plans to build on the past success of Acorn with a range of new cask ales, including IPAs. Sat, 25 Nov 2023 12:58:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/11/25/acorn-plans-big-growth-for-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/11/25/acorn-plans-big-growth-for-cask-ale Gale's Prize Old Ale, a stock ale that's a blend of aged and fresh beer, was revived in 2022 and sold out within 48 hours. It's now owned by Fulller's/Asahi and a new vintage has just been launched, brewed at Meantime in Greenwich. Thu, 23 Nov 2023 15:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/11/23/classic-stock-ale-makes-record-return https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/11/23/classic-stock-ale-makes-record-return Matthew Curtis has written and photographed a fine new guide to the bars, pubs and breweries of Manchester and has linked them to the city's long history of brewing. Several old family breweries have survived and they have been joined by a host of new small producers in recent years. The enjoyment of beer in the city is heightened by the many superb pubs, both ancient and modern Sat, 18 Nov 2023 13:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2023/11/18/superb-guide-to-manchester-beer-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2023/11/18/superb-guide-to-manchester-beer-pubs The Crossover Blendery on a farm in Hertfordshire is producing a range of beers inspired by the "wild beers" of Belgium, known as lambic and gueuze. Charlie Wood and George Stagg visited the Cantillon lambic brewery in Brussels and were so impressed with the beers they decided to make their own spontaneously fermented beers back home in collaboration with Elgood's Brewery in Wisbech Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/10/30/wild-beers-come-to-life-down-on-the-farm https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/10/30/wild-beers-come-to-life-down-on-the-farm Des de Moor's new book is a well-researched history of brewing in Britain, the development of cask-conditioned ale and its struggle to revive after Covid. The design of the book is odd -- with long sections on lager as well as ale -- before readers get to the promise of the title but in general this is a thoughtful, stimulating and provocative analysis Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:24:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/10/30/in-depth-history-of-britain-s-beer-culture https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/10/30/in-depth-history-of-britain-s-beer-culture Farr Brew based at Colemans Green in Hertfordshire, was given notice to quit its farm buildings earlier this month but founder Nick Farr reports he has found a new site, also on a farm just outside Redbourn. He hopes to be up and running in November and will add additional fermenters to add growth. Nick is seen (right) with co-founder Matt Elvidge. Farr Brew has won prizes for sustainability and support for the environment from Herts Life and SIBA Mon, 25 Sep 2023 09:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/09/25/prize-winning-brewery-finds-new-home https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/09/25/prize-winning-brewery-finds-new-home Utopian Brewing, the craft lager brewery in Devon, has launched its annual Festbier to coincide with the annual Munich Oktoberfest. While it's a lager, the beer is brewed with 100% British-grown ingredients -- including a version of the Bavarian Hersbrucker hop from the Hallertau region. Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/09/21/festbier-celebrates-british-malt-and-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/09/21/festbier-celebrates-british-malt-and-hops Cask Ale Week -- 21 September to 1 October -- will seek to boost the fortunes of Britain's unique beer style as it attempts to recover from Covid and lockdowns. Sales of cask ale are down by an alarming 20 per cent though some brewers -- including Timothy Taylor and Robinsons -- say sales are recovering well. Brewers and pub companies will support Cask Ale Week with special promotions in their pubs. Tue, 19 Sep 2023 14:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/09/19/big-beer-week-seeks-to-boost-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/09/19/big-beer-week-seeks-to-boost-cask-ale Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn has launched 12 Moons, a lager that's aged and matured for 12 months. Dougal Sharp, the founder of I&G, thinks it may be the longest-lagered beer in the word. Samichlaus, brewed in Austria, is aged for 10 months while the Czech Budweiser Budvar Reserve enjoys 200 days in the lager cellar. Mon, 11 Sep 2023 09:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/09/11/how-long-should-a-lager-beer-be-aged https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/09/11/how-long-should-a-lager-beer-be-aged Hammerton's Brewery in North London has restored a link the original Hammerton's in Southwark, south London. The new Hammerton's has launched a stout while its predecessor brewed a number of stouts and porter. Sun, 03 Sep 2023 17:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/09/03/hammerton-s-historic-stout-london-link https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/09/03/hammerton-s-historic-stout-london-link The demolition of the Crooked House in the Black Country has spotlighted the way in which more and more pubs are being destroyed by speculators. As a general election approaches, political parties should be asked to commit to appointing a Pubs Minister who will protect pubs and will also tackle such burning issues as high business rates, VAT and excise duties that penalise pubs and advantage supermarkets Sun, 03 Sep 2023 10:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/09/03/crooked-house-we-need-a-pubs-minister https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/09/03/crooked-house-we-need-a-pubs-minister Famous Yorkshire brewer Timothy Taylor has joined forces with leading craft brewer Thornbridge in Derbyshire to produce a collaboratilon brew, Artesian, 4.2%, a pale ale with the addition of elderflower and gooseberry Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/08/21/tim-taylor-thornbridge-join-forces https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/08/21/tim-taylor-thornbridge-join-forces Molson Coors, a global brewer that took over the old Bass breweries in Burton-on-Trent, says it plans to "rest" production of Worthington's White Shield, a world-famous Burton IPA first brewed in the 19th century. Production has ceased for the "foreseeable future", which means it's unlikely to be brewed again. But Molson Coors say the beer remains part of its portfolio and the group refuses to sell the brand Mon, 14 Aug 2023 13:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/08/14/global-giant-set-to-axe-white-shield-ipa https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/08/14/global-giant-set-to-axe-white-shield-ipa Elland Brewery in Yorkshire has won the coveted Champion Beer of Britain award for 1872 Porter at CAMRA's Great British Beer Festival at London Olympia. The beer has previously been named Champion Winter Beer four times. There were also awards for beers in a range of categories Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/08/02/elland-brewery-wins-top-beer-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/08/02/elland-brewery-wins-top-beer-award Black Sheep Brewery in Yorkshire has been saved from administration and will continue to brew but chief executive Charlene Lyons says it will close three pubs as a result of "difficult trading" Mon, 17 Jul 2023 10:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/07/17/black-sheep-to-axe-three-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/07/17/black-sheep-to-axe-three-pubs The Anchor Brewery in San Francisco, famous for its Steam Beer, is being closed by its owner, Sapporo of Japan. The brewery was bought in 1965 by Fritz Maytag whose success inspired many other breweries to open and start the American beer revolution. Maytag also brewed a range of conventional beers, including Liberty Ale. Thu, 13 Jul 2023 09:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/07/13/anchor-s-away-an-american-icon-closes https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/07/13/anchor-s-away-an-american-icon-closes Greene King has joined forces with fellow Suffolk brewer Nethergate to launch two new cask beers that will be available in 4.5 gallon pins that will help pubs with a slow turnover and avoid wastage Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/07/05/greene-king-pins-its-hopes-on-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/07/05/greene-king-pins-its-hopes-on-cask Thornbridge Brewery in Derbyshire is boosting the premium bottled beer sector with the launch of seven beers in bottle-conditioned form. The beers include its leading beer Jaipur IPA, and six others that are all available in cask form as well. One of the seven is Kelham Island Pale Rider: Kelham Island Brewery in Sheffield closed in 2022 but has reopened with the support of local beer-loving entrepreneurs Fri, 16 Jun 2023 13:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/06/16/thornbridge-goes-big-on-bottles https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/06/16/thornbridge-goes-big-on-bottles For six years, Friends of the Iron Duke have campaigned to save the closed Art Deco listed building and to reopen it as a pub. The local council and its preservation trust have refused to put the pub out for tender and have now reached an agreement with a company called Zak's to turn the site into an American-style burger restaurant. Caroline Jones of Friends of the Iron Duke tells the story... Thu, 15 Jun 2023 12:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2023/06/15/battle-royal-over-iconic-art-deco-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2023/06/15/battle-royal-over-iconic-art-deco-pub The Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company has put the Ringwood Brewery and its brands up for sale. It claims the current site in Ringwood, Hampshire, is to restricted to expand. Who will buy the brewery during a cost of living crisis and what will happen to such popular beers as Old Thumper? In just one year since CMBC was created it has sold or closed three sites and there must now be a major question mark over the future of the Wychwood Brewery in Oxfordshire Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/06/12/ringwood-another-one-bites-the-dust https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/06/12/ringwood-another-one-bites-the-dust David Jesudason has written a remarkable guide to desi pubs that offer not only good beer and exceptional food but are also at the vanguard of combatting racism in society. He has found pubs that once operated all-white colour bars but now welcome people from all ethnic backgrounds and offer food with its roots in Asian culture and history. Sun, 11 Jun 2023 13:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2023/06/11/desi-pubs-good-for-beer-food-society https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2023/06/11/desi-pubs-good-for-beer-food-society Four brewers from the Norfolk area went to Leuven in Belgium earlier this year to meet with counterparts there and plan beers using both British and Belgian ingredients and styles. The beers were unveiled at the launch of Norwich City of Ale and will be available in some of the 59 pubs supporting the festivities. Mon, 29 May 2023 12:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/05/29/launch-of-belgian-brit-collab-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/05/29/launch-of-belgian-brit-collab-beers The National Hop Collection is moving to a new and bigger site in Kent where as many as 350 varieties will be grown and collated. Dr Peter Darby (pictured), founder of Wye Hops, has come out of retirement to oversee the move and the planting of the hops. The collection is supported by Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewer based in Faversham. It has funded the move and will continue to give financial backing for at least five years Mon, 08 May 2023 11:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/05/08/new-home-for-historic-hops-collection https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/05/08/new-home-for-historic-hops-collection Czech brewer Budweiser Budvar has joined forces with leading independent brewer Thornbridge in Bakewell, Derbyshire, to produce a collaboration lager, Czech Mates, 4.8%. It's brewed with Maris Otter malt and East Kent Goldings hops and is fermented with Budvar's yeast culture. The beer is aged for six weeks, far longer than most lagers brewed in the UK. Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/04/20/budvar-thornbridge-brew-collab-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/04/20/budvar-thornbridge-brew-collab-lager Most of the top-selling lagers in Britain have reassuringly Continental names but most of them are brewed not in Europe, let along Australia, but in giant beer factories in this country. And almost without exception, they are lower in alcohol than the original beers whose names they mimic -- which means big savings in excise duty for the brewers. Heineken is spending millions launching Cruzcampo -- 4.4% in the UK, 4.8% in Spain Sat, 15 Apr 2023 11:23:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/04/15/global-brewers-bamboozle-lager-drinkers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/04/15/global-brewers-bamboozle-lager-drinkers After the dread days of Covid and lockdown, it's good to be able to visit pubs and enjoy draught beer, especially traditional ale, made from malted grain and hops -- no funny bits, including beetroot Fri, 14 Apr 2023 18:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/04/14/no-fuss-the-joy-of-drinking-draught-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/04/14/no-fuss-the-joy-of-drinking-draught-beer The National Brewery Heritage Trust has appointed Laura Waters as Collections Officer to preserve and protect the archives and artefacts from the National Brewery Centre in Burton-on-Trent. The centre has been closed by Molson Coors and the collection will go to a temporary home on Station Street until the new Heritage Centre in Burton is ready. Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/04/13/burton-beer-museum-finds-a-new-home https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/04/13/burton-beer-museum-finds-a-new-home Timothy Taylor, legendary brewer of Landlord pale ale in Bronte country, has launched its first beer in a can. Hopical Storm (4%) uses five English hops, pure Pennine water and fine English barley malts to create a session beer with mandarin, mango and passion fruit aromas and flavours Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/03/31/tim-taylor-brews-up-a-storm-in-a-can https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/03/31/tim-taylor-brews-up-a-storm-in-a-can Greene King has launched Spring Break, a hoppy golden ale, as part of its cask beer seasonal programme. It's brewed in collaboration with apprentices on the National Brewery Apprenticeship Scheme. The brewery is also celebrating winning a prize for its craft beer programme in the Bartenders Brands Awards Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/03/24/greene-king-launches-beer-for-spring https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/03/24/greene-king-launches-beer-for-spring Bill Tidy, the legendary cartoonist, broadcaster and raconteur, has died aged 89. He kept the nation laughing for many years with his strips in the daily Mirror and Private Eye. He will be remembered by CAMRA members for his long-running strip Kegbuster in What's Brewing, in which an ale lover fought such mega brewers as Grotny and Twitbread and their attempts to foist keg beer on drinkers Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/03/21/bill-tidy-laughing-all-the-way-to-the-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/03/21/bill-tidy-laughing-all-the-way-to-the-pub Andy Hayward gave up a career in insurance to run a brewery in Staines-on-Thames. He has moved sites three times and now has a bar and taproom with space for music events with visiting rock groups. His core brands are named after wildfowl found on the rivers Thames and Wraysbury. His latest beer is a collaborative brew with the Back Beat Brewery in Massachusetts, Don't Fear the Neipa. Sun, 26 Feb 2023 11:23:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/02/26/thames-brewery-on-a-rock-and-a-roll https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/02/26/thames-brewery-on-a-rock-and-a-roll The Bree Louise was an award-winning pub close to Euston station in North London. It was closed in 2018 and knocked down to make way for the new high-speed train service to Birmingham, HS2. Now there is speculation that HS2 may be cancelled or trains will start in the suburbs, not at Euston. So the pub and surrounding buildings need not have been destroyed Fri, 10 Feb 2023 11:29:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/02/10/bree-louise-did-this-pub-have-to-die https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2023/02/10/bree-louise-did-this-pub-have-to-die Jef Stelling, host of Sky Sports Soccer Saturday and former host of Countdown, has joined forces with brewer and pub retailer Greene King to boost draught cask beer. The brewery has staged a series of events with Jeff where customers have taken part in a pub quiz led by Jeff while enjoying pints of Greene King Abbot Ale. Jeff is seen with Roger Protz in the Green Man in Sandridge, near St Albans Sat, 04 Feb 2023 12:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/02/04/tv-host-jeff-stelling-in-boost-for-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/02/04/tv-host-jeff-stelling-in-boost-for-cask Family brewer Arkells is celebrating 180 years of production this year with a series of events and special beers, such as Tradition. There will be brewery tours for the public and a major party in September. The celebrations were kicked off with the unveiling of a plaque by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire Fri, 03 Feb 2023 17:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/02/03/wilts-family-brewer-chalks-up-180-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/02/03/wilts-family-brewer-chalks-up-180-years Scottish brewer BrewDog has launched a new nitro stout, Black Heart, in a direct challenge to market leader Guinness. The new beer is 4.1 per cent, identical to the Irish beer and will be on sale in pubs from 1 February followed by a packaged version later in the month, BrewDog will have samples of the beer available outside Twickenham rugby ground during the Six Nations tournament, which is sponsored by Guinness Tue, 31 Jan 2023 16:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/31/brewdog-stout-in-challenge-to-guinness https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/31/brewdog-stout-in-challenge-to-guinness Eylenbosch, one of Belgium's oldest lambic breweries that closed in the 1990s, has been brought back to life and is once again brewing spontaneously fermented lambic and gueuze beers. The brewery has been welcomed by the directors of HORAL set up to protect and promote lambic beer Pictured: Erik De Keersmaeker of Eylenbosch Tue, 24 Jan 2023 13:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/24/key-brewery-joins-belgium-s-wild-bunch https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/24/key-brewery-joins-belgium-s-wild-bunch It's possible to enjoy good beer and still give your liver a rest in January. There are some excellent NoLos to be found, including the brilliant Adnams Ghost Ship 0.5% on draught. These beers have come a long way from the days of Barbican and Kaliber that tasted like cold Horlicks. Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:24:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/01/16/how-nolo-can-you-get-in-dry-january https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2023/01/16/how-nolo-can-you-get-in-dry-january The Tamworth Tap, a brewpub opened just five years ago, has won CAMRA's coveted Pub of the Year award. The Tap is based in a 16th century building overlooking Tamworth Castle and offers beers from eight handpulls along with pub games and many other activities. Fri, 13 Jan 2023 11:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/13/tamworth-jewel-wins-top-pub-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/13/tamworth-jewel-wins-top-pub-award Suffolk-based brewer and retailer Greene King has invested heavily in 36-pint casks called pins for its seasonal ale. This will enable publicans to offer a range of cask ales in good condition that it's hoped will invigorate the sector and bring new and younger drinkers to real ale. The small containers will cut back on wasted beer Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/11/greene-king-pins-its-faith-on-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2023/01/11/greene-king-pins-its-faith-on-cask-ale A Hampshire pub dating from 1721 has been given the top Pub Savings Award by the Campaign for Real Ale. The Plough Inn closed in 2015 but local people raIsed money through donations, grants and a community share scheme to buy the pub and restore it. The runner-up in the awards is the Three Horseshoes in Helions Bumpstead in Essex Mon, 26 Dec 2022 12:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/26/top-awards-for-pubs-saved-by-locals https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/26/top-awards-for-pubs-saved-by-locals Jurgen Klopp, manager of Liverpool FC, is also the ambassador for the German wheat beer Erdinger in Britain. As a result of the collaboration, Erdinger is now the biggest-selling imported wheat beer in the country. It's brewed with malts grown on farms near the brewery and with hops from the Hallertau region. Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/19/klopp-boots-erdinger-to-top-sales-spot https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/19/klopp-boots-erdinger-to-top-sales-spot It's time for Xmas beers with some splendid examples from regional and independent breweries, including Harvey's in Lewes, Sussex, which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Christmas Ale. Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/14/santa-pours-pints-of-festive-joy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/14/santa-pours-pints-of-festive-joy Timothy Taylor's Brewery in Keighley, West Yorkshire, has seen a big jump in sales of Landlord Best Bitter, which is now the second biggest selling cask beer in the country. There has also been big increases in beer sales from such independent brewers as St Austell and Wadworth. Sun, 11 Dec 2022 13:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/11/taylor-s-landlord-leads-cask-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/12/11/taylor-s-landlord-leads-cask-revival Dark Star Brewery in Sussex has launched a new edition of Gale's Prize Old Ale, a rare beer that's a blend of aged and fresh young beer. POA was brewed at Gale's in Hampshire until the brewery closed in 2066. A final batch of the beer was moved to Fuller's in Chiswick and has been used to make occasional new versions of the beer. Henry Kirk at Dark Start hopes it will now become an annual vintage. Mon, 14 Nov 2022 11:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/11/14/prize-old-ale-dark-star-new-generation https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/11/14/prize-old-ale-dark-star-new-generation The 26th edition of Fuller's Vintage Ale sold out as soon as bottles hit the shelves but it's due to be back in Waitrose on 26 October and is also available from the brewery's online shop. The new vintage includes a new English hop called Emperor. The beer is also on sale on draught in a small selection of Fuller's pubs. Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/10/19/autumn-cheer-from-fuller-s-vintage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/10/19/autumn-cheer-from-fuller-s-vintage Cask Ale Week runs from 21 September to 1 October and it has a special role this year to reverse the fall in sales as a result of the Covid pandemic and pub lockdowns. The celebration will also attempt to bring younger drinkers on board by stressing that cask beer has rich and vibrant flavours and is brewed from the finest natural ingredients. Bright new handpulls on bars will also draw customers' attention to the beers on offer Thu, 22 Sep 2022 11:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/09/22/big-drive-to-boost-cask-ale-sales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/09/22/big-drive-to-boost-cask-ale-sales Global lager giant Molson Coors plans to close the National Brewery Centre in Burton on Trent and turn it into offices for its staff. The centre traces the history of brewing in Burton, including the rise of IPA in the 19th century. It has a large number of displays including old brewery vehicles and steam locos. The Heritage Archive of documents will be moved to Bass House and Town House but no site has been earmarked for artefacts Tue, 20 Sep 2022 15:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2022/09/20/beer-s-heritage-under-attack-in-burton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2022/09/20/beer-s-heritage-under-attack-in-burton Jennings Brewery in Cumbria is to close as a result of a decision by owners Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company. This follows on the heels of the decision in June by Heineken to close the Caledonian Brewery in Heineken. And now Heineken has taken complete control of Beavertown in Nortrh London Wed, 07 Sep 2022 11:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/09/07/global-lager-brewers-on-the-rampage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/09/07/global-lager-brewers-on-the-rampage Scott Wayland, pictured right in the taproom at the Sixpenny Brewery, brews on an former farm in Cranborne, Dorset, where the brewhouse is guarded by Daleks and K9 -- Scott is a former model maker who provided models for Dr Who. He now makes a series of ales sold in free houses in the area and also in the taproom that draws crowds of 250 on music evenings Mon, 22 Aug 2022 09:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/08/22/hop-on-the-tardis-for-some-dorset-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/08/22/hop-on-the-tardis-for-some-dorset-ale Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn, famous for its oak-aged beer, has aged its flagship Original in sherry casks bought from Pedro Ximinez in Spain, The beer cements the long love Scots have for sherry that was landed in the Port of Leith in Edinburgh, Innis and Gunn's home base. Sat, 20 Aug 2022 12:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/08/20/i-g-launches-beer-aged-in-sherry-casks https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/08/20/i-g-launches-beer-aged-in-sherry-casks For the first time ever, a home brew championship has been staged at CAMRA's Great British Beer Festival. The winner was named as Stephen Folland with his Doggy in the Woods, a 16% stout. He will now be invited to brew commercially at a Brewhouse & Kitchen outlet Tue, 02 Aug 2022 18:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/08/02/home-brew-champions-unveiled-at-gbbf https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/08/02/home-brew-champions-unveiled-at-gbbf Flavourly, the online craft beer specialist, has launched Small Batch Originals, a range of new craft beers from Wiper and True, Brew by Numbers, Siren Craft Brew, Tempest, Anspach & Hobday and Wild Card, In Devon, Salcombe Brewery has launched its first IPA, Atlas, brewed with British, American and New Zealand hops. The Co-op has launched Toast, a hazy pale ale, in collaboration with Toast, using surplus bread from its suppliers. Thu, 28 Jul 2022 11:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/28/new-beers-on-the-block https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/28/new-beers-on-the-block A Victorian pub, the Boleyn Tavern, that once stood next to West Ham United's football ground, has won the prestigious Community Local award from CAMRA in its Pub Design Awards. Wells & Co and Joules Brewery have jointly won the New Build award for Brewpoint in Bedford and the Crown Wharf in Stone while Stay Original Company won the Refurbishment Award for the Kings Arms in Dorchester Tue, 26 Jul 2022 09:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/26/camra-unveils-top-pub-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/26/camra-unveils-top-pub-awards Brewers and consumer groups have acted angrily to a delay in a review of beer excise duty levels. The review was announced in the 2021 budget but will not be brought in until the autumn. CAMRA, SIBA, UK Hospitality and the British Beer & Pub Association have all called on the government not to delay the review and to bring in a lower rate of duty for draught beer. Photo shows Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson carrying 30 litre kegs at Fourpure Brewery that are outside a 5% cut in duty Thu, 21 Jul 2022 12:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/21/anger-at-delay-in-beer-duty-review https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/21/anger-at-delay-in-beer-duty-review Roger Protz is one of eight leading beer writers who have combined to choose their favourite brews for the new book The World's Greatest Beers, published by CAMRA Books. It will be launched on 2 August, the opening day of the Great British Beer Festival. Protz says he has chosen 33 beers that reflect both great standard bearers along with beers from the vast number of new breweries to be found throughout the world Wed, 20 Jul 2022 13:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/20/protz-chooses-some-of-world-s-top-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/20/protz-chooses-some-of-world-s-top-beers The Farriers Arms in St Albans, home to the first CAMRA branch in 1972, has been awarded an Asset of Community Value listing by the local council. The pub is up for sale but the ACV means there will be a six-month moratorium on the sale during which time supporters and councillors will seek a suitable new owner who will keep the pub open. Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/12/hopes-rise-to-save-famous-farriers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/12/hopes-rise-to-save-famous-farriers The Land of Liberty, Peace & Plenty is a pub of historic importance. It was built in the 1840s to support a Chartist community in Heronsgate, Herts, and has traded ever since. It has won a large number of awards from CAMRA and is currently the Herts Country Pub of the Year. But the owners are thinking of selling as they haven't recovered from Covid lockdowns and say most of their former regulars stay at home and drink cheap supermarket alcohol Sun, 10 Jul 2022 17:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2022/07/10/historic-pub-struggles-to-survive https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2022/07/10/historic-pub-struggles-to-survive The Great British Beer Festival is back after a two-year break as a result of Covid. With beers from 12 countries, GBBF is now the world's major festival where choice is concerned. As well as beer, cider, perry, wine and gin will be showcased. There will be live music and street food, a home-brewing competition and daily talks and tastings. Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/06/olympia-beer-fest-is-best-in-world https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/06/olympia-beer-fest-is-best-in-world Andy Hepworth, founder of the Horsham-based brewery, has dug deep to install an in-house canning line for his ales, lagers and stouts. He is also stepping up his commitment to reducing CO2 with plans to be 85% carbon neutral by 2025 Mon, 04 Jul 2022 17:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/04/hepworth-cans-beer-and-hits-the-gas https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/07/04/hepworth-cans-beer-and-hits-the-gas Yorkshire comedian Maisie Adam has joined forces with Black Sheep Brewery in Masham to promote cask ale. In a video commissioned by Black Sheep, Maisie tackles head-on some of the myths surrounding cask beer: that it's drunk only by old men and is served warm, flat and vinegary, Black Sheep describes cask as "the original craft beer", with a wide variety of styles that suit all age groups Wed, 29 Jun 2022 11:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/06/29/maisie-adam-joins-battle-for-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/06/29/maisie-adam-joins-battle-for-cask-ale In his new book, Pete Brown records the creation of working men's clubs by do-gooders in Victorian Britain who wanted to win people away from the "evils" of the pub. When working men took over the clubs, they turned them into successful organisations, with millions of members throughout the country Wed, 22 Jun 2022 14:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2022/06/22/clubbing-together-the-rise-of-the-ciu https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2022/06/22/clubbing-together-the-rise-of-the-ciu Jonny Garrett has produced a superb book that covers the world's great beer styles in a refreshingly different fashion, breaking them down into the seasons of the year, discussing the way they are made and the best foods to enjoy with them. Sat, 04 Jun 2022 18:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2022/06/04/beer-well-served-by-a-fine-book https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2022/06/04/beer-well-served-by-a-fine-book St Austell Brewery in Cornwall has launched Anthem, a new pale ale that's brewed with all-British malts and hops. It's the first new beer to be made at the brewery since the arrival of head brewer Georgina Young from Fuller's. The beer features Maris Otter malting barley and four English hops Thu, 02 Jun 2022 17:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/06/02/st-austell-on-song-with-anthem https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/06/02/st-austell-on-song-with-anthem Heineken is to close the Caledonian Brewery in Edinburgh, ending 150 years of brewing at the historic site. The brewery achieved fame when its Deuchar's IPA was named CAMRA's Champion Beer of Britain. Heineken says the Victorian site is not brewing to full capacity and would need major investment to upgrade it. Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/06/01/dutch-giant-to-axe-caledonian https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/06/01/dutch-giant-to-axe-caledonian Two South London brewers, Anspach & Hobday and Orbit Beers, have joined forces to recreate a genuine Running Porter from the 19th century, using a recipe from Truman's brewery in Whitechapel. The beer will be served from wooden casks at Woodfest, the annual celebration organised by the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood but bottled versions are available for purchase. One batch will be kept back and aged to produce a Keeping Porter Fri, 20 May 2022 16:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/20/brewers-recreate-porter-from-the-wood https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/20/brewers-recreate-porter-from-the-wood The ground-breaking City of Ale in Norwich -- a roving festival based around the city's pubs -- is back after two years of lockdown. This year the event will run for a full month and will feature special beers brewed by some of the county's 40 breweries. The launch party takes place on Thursday 26 May. Pictured: two key players in City of Ale, David Holliday of Norfolk Brew House and Dawn Hopkins of the Rose Inn. Sat, 14 May 2022 12:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/14/norwich-city-of-ale-bigger-and-better https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/14/norwich-city-of-ale-bigger-and-better Kelham Island Brewery, famous for its Pale Rider golden ale, is closing as a result of what owner Ed Wickett calls a "whirlwind" caused by Covid, lockdown and increases in fuel, grain and delivery charges. The brewery's famous Fat Cat pub in Sheffield will stay open and continue to sell Kelham Island beers while stocks last Thu, 12 May 2022 10:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/12/kelham-island-blown-away-by-whirlwind https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/12/kelham-island-blown-away-by-whirlwind Guinness is to invest £73 million in a new micro-brewery and visitor centre in Covent Garden in central London. The site will cover 50,000 square feet and create 150 jobs. The site will be known as Guinness at Old Brewer's Yard and is on the historic Combe Brewery site that operated from the 18th to the early 20th century and became part of Watney Combe Reid Mon, 09 May 2022 13:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/09/guinness-plans-73m-london-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/09/guinness-plans-73m-london-brewery Adnams in Southwold, Suffolk, celebrates 150 years of brewing in 2022. It has joined forces with the Sierra Nevada Brewery in California to make a special collaboration beer called Eastern Edge. It's fermented with yeasts from both breweries and uses Cascade and Chinook hops grown in the U.S. and England. Seen at the launch are, left and right, Fergus Fitzgerald and Dan Gooderham of Adnams with Steve Grossman of Sierra Nevada, centre Sun, 08 May 2022 13:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/05/08/adnams-joins-forces-with-sierra-nevada-to-celebrate-150-years-of-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/05/08/adnams-joins-forces-with-sierra-nevada-to-celebrate-150-years-of-brewing A book by Harry White on the history of Bass is written by an insider but it's disappointingly thin on the growth of the brewery in the 19th century and its vast export impact with IPA. It also underplays the use of mass advertising post World War Two to fuel the development of keg beer and lager Mon, 02 May 2022 19:18:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2022/05/02/quick-canter-through-history-of-bass https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2022/05/02/quick-canter-through-history-of-bass Alloa brewers Williams Brothers have added to their popular Joker IPAs with a ramped up version Juicy Joker, based on the New England NEIPA style Mon, 02 May 2022 13:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/02/scots-brewer-gets-juicy-with-joker https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/05/02/scots-brewer-gets-juicy-with-joker One of the world's top beer festivals, the Great British, returns to London Olympia this August following a two-year gap as a result of Covid and lockdowns. This year, thanks to a collaboration with the New England Real Ale Exchange, GBBF will feature a large number of American beers as well as ales from all parts of Britain. Tue, 26 Apr 2022 11:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/04/26/beer-bonanza-heads-back-to-olympia https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/04/26/beer-bonanza-heads-back-to-olympia Lovers of Draught Bass are urging drinkers and pubs to boost the beer on 16 April, Easter Saturday, which has been dubbed National Bass Day. The beer is now owned by global giant AB InBev. At its peak 800,000 barrels a year were brewed but that fallen to just 30,000 today. Potential buyers of the beer would not be given the famous red triangle trademark. Thu, 07 Apr 2022 13:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/04/07/easter-saturday-is-boost-bass-day https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/04/07/easter-saturday-is-boost-bass-day As Adnams celebrates 150 years of brewing in the Suffolk seaside town of Southwold, production director Fergus Fitzgerald has reshaped the beer range with such popular new ales as Mosaic and Ghost Ship. With most beer sold to the free trade, Fergus is producing craft keg as well as cask and has seen Ghost Ship became Adnams' leading beer Mon, 28 Mar 2022 21:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/28/fergus-fitzgerald-the-brewer-making-adnams-fighting-fit-for-the-future https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/28/fergus-fitzgerald-the-brewer-making-adnams-fighting-fit-for-the-future Following a long battle with here landlords, Carol Ross is now the proud owner of the Roscoe Head in Liverpool, one of only five pubs to be listed in the Good Beer Guide for 50 years. She still bears the scars of her battle to win control of the pub but is now turning her attention to saving cask ale as it's replaced by "craft beer" in many Merseyside pubs Mon, 21 Mar 2022 09:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/21/roscoe-s-carol-the-scars-are-healing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/21/roscoe-s-carol-the-scars-are-healing Mild Ale will be given a major boost in March and April with a Mild Magic campaign run by CAMRA branches in the region. The campaign will be sponsored by Hydes Brewery, which still brews Mild Ale, and will be supported by two more mild breweries, JW Lees and Joseph Holt. Supporters of the scheme will go on a pub passport pub crawl that will win them entry to Stockport Beer Festival, a T-shirt with the mild logo and the chance to tour Holt's brewery Fri, 11 Mar 2022 17:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/03/11/manchester-goes-mad-over-mild https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/03/11/manchester-goes-mad-over-mild It's 10 years since Dave Wickett, landlord of the famous Fat Cat pub in Sheffield, died. Dave, who also founded Kelham Island Brewery, needed cask beer for the Fat Cat and brought Timothy Taylor Landlord from North Yorkshire. The beer had never been sold outside its immediate area before but its success in Sheffield turned it into a national brand. Thu, 10 Mar 2022 12:59:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/10/how-sheffield-pub-boosted-landlord https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/10/how-sheffield-pub-boosted-landlord Charlene Lyons, chief executive of Black Sheep Brewery in Yorkshire, is spearheading a major campaign to boost cask beer. "It's the heart of what we," she says. The brewery has recovered strongly from the pandemic and lockdowns and now aims, using social media, to attract young people to the pleasures of real ale. But older drinkers will not be forgotten. "There are a lot of lapsed cask drinkers out there," she says. Wed, 02 Mar 2022 12:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/02/black-sheep-in-big-push-to-boost-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/03/02/black-sheep-in-big-push-to-boost-cask The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) have appealed to Chancellor Rishi Sunak to change his new tax rates for draught beer to include containers of less than 40 litres. Research shows that many pubs and bars do not have the cellar space or turnover to sell 40 litre containers. The Chancellor is pictured with Boris Johnson moving kegs at a London brewery following last year's Budget Tue, 01 Feb 2022 10:40:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/02/01/small-brewers-in-tax-plea-to-sunak https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/02/01/small-brewers-in-tax-plea-to-sunak Global brewing giant Guinness plans to build a micro-plant in Covent Garden in the heart of London. The brewery will cost £73 million and will cover an area known as Old Brewers' Yard where brewing has taken place for 500 years, The new plant is due to come on stream in 2023 and will offer tours and a restaurant. Mon, 31 Jan 2022 17:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/01/31/guinness-to-brew-in-heart-of-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/01/31/guinness-to-brew-in-heart-of-london Mad Squirrel Brewery in Hertfordshire has developed a new system of serving fresh draught beer from a tank. Its taproom in St Albans has its best-selling Sumo pale ale on sale, stored in Frank the Tank. The beer is unfiltered and unpasteurised and contains live yeast. It stays in drinkable condition for five days Sun, 23 Jan 2022 13:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/01/23/mad-squirrel-meets-frank-the-tank https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/01/23/mad-squirrel-meets-frank-the-tank Sales of cask beer fell like a stone during the covid lockdowns but brewers feel confident that a revival is underway. Stuart Bateman, pictured with his sister Jaclyn, says his Lincolnshire brewery is doing well but cask must not be priced beyond drinkers' means. Tom Stainer of CAMRA says cask beer must be treated as a pub's Unique Selling Point while James Calder of SIBA argues that many independent brewers are well placed to meet consumer demand for real ale Thu, 20 Jan 2022 18:40:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/01/20/brewers-bullish-about-cask-beer-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2022/01/20/brewers-bullish-about-cask-beer-revival The authentic Czech lager beer Budweiser Budvar saw a remarkable 38 per cent growth in sales in 2021. It was the number three in World Lager sales in the off trade. On trade sales recovered fast once the lockdown ended. The beer is on draught and also in bottles and cans. Some specialist outlets serve Budvar from special tanks holding unfiltered and unpasteurised beer Thu, 13 Jan 2022 13:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/01/13/budvar-beats-virus-blues-to-boost-sales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2022/01/13/budvar-beats-virus-blues-to-boost-sales CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- has given its prestigious Pub Saving Award to locals in Stoke Ferry, Norfolk, who raised funds to buy the Blue Bell Inn that had closed and was threatened with being turned into housing. It will re-open in the spring. Runner-up was the Railway Arms in Saffron Walden, Essex, which has re-opened following a long campaign to save it by local people. Mon, 27 Dec 2021 16:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/12/27/prize-for-villagers-who-saved-their-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/12/27/prize-for-villagers-who-saved-their-local Fuller's famous strong ale ESB is 50 years old and Justin Hawke at Moor Beer, working with the Chiswick brewery, has brewed Rebirth, using the original recipe. Today only English hops are used but Justin has a mix of English, American, Australian and Slovenian varieties. He has also brought back maize, which is no longer used by Fuller's Sun, 19 Dec 2021 13:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/19/esb-at-50-rolling-back-the-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/19/esb-at-50-rolling-back-the-years Christmas is bursting with a fine range of beers with strong ales and even an oak-aged Pilsner. Santa Claus would certainly get stuck in the chimney if he partakes of some of these beers. Mon, 13 Dec 2021 13:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/13/beers-to-get-santa-stuck-in-the-chimney https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/13/beers-to-get-santa-stuck-in-the-chimney In his new book Beer by Design, Pete Brown traces the rise of branding and marketing from the Bass Red Triangle in the 19th century to the use of modern design and typefaces to promote the vast range of craft beers throughout the world. He shows how even ultra-modern breweries such as BrewDog have benefitted from an overhaul and new image Thu, 09 Dec 2021 15:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/09/can-it-how-branding-boosts-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/09/can-it-how-branding-boosts-beer The Farriers Arms in St Albans has played a key role in the history of the Campaign for Real Ale. The longest surviving CAMRA branch was formed in the pub in November 1972. The Farriers was owned by Hertford family brewer McMullen but it sold the pub to the sitting tenants, Tony and Jannine Passmore, in 2013. They now want to retire and the pub is on the market. A local Lib Dem councillor will attempt to win an Asset of Community Value listing for the pub Wed, 08 Dec 2021 17:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/12/08/farriers-arms-camra-icon-for-sale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/12/08/farriers-arms-camra-icon-for-sale Phil and Debbie Goacher launched their brewery in 1983 and restored beer-making to Maidstone, which had lost two large breweries, Fremlins and Style & Winch. Goachers concentrates on strictly traditional styles and still makes a mild. Phil and Debbie have retired and the brewery is run by their son Howard. He uses Kentish hops and would like farmers to grow barley in Kent. Tue, 07 Dec 2021 18:04:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/07/goachers-kent-s-great-survivors https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/12/07/goachers-kent-s-great-survivors Pilgrim Brewery in Reigate is Surrey's oldest brewery and it supplies not only pubs in the county but the Oval cricket ground. It was founded by Dave Roberts, who helped SIBA gain Progressive Beer Duty for smaller brewers. It's now run by a trio who have expanded the beer range and upgraded the brewing kit but remain faithful to Roberts' beers that celebrate the pilgrims who made the long trek from Salisbury to Canterbury Sun, 21 Nov 2021 16:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/11/21/pilgrim-s-way-is-to-brew-fine-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/11/21/pilgrim-s-way-is-to-brew-fine-beer The third edition of Des de Moor's guide to London pubs records a remarkable increase in the number of breweries operating in the capital -- up from 14 in the last edition to 140 today. The guide takes beer lovers on a dizzying trek round London, visiting the best pubs and breweries large and small, and noting the vast range of beer styles now available Sun, 21 Nov 2021 11:43:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/11/21/join-des-s-great-london-beer-trek https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/11/21/join-des-s-great-london-beer-trek The 2022 edition of the Good Beer Guide, published by CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- shows that the number of breweries in the UK has grown despite the impact of the pandemic. The guide lists some 4,500 pubs throughout the country that are serving cask beer in tip-top condition. The guide calls on the government to give greater support to both pubs and breweries in order to face the power of cost-cutting supermarkets Fri, 12 Nov 2021 09:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/11/12/good-beer-guide-shows-brewery-growth https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/11/12/good-beer-guide-shows-brewery-growth Innis & Gunn has won planning approval to build a new brewery alongside Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh where there's a renowned school of brewing and distilling. Students will be able to use the brewery's facilities. BrewDog plans to build a vast new brewery and bar at Waterloo Station in London on the site of the former Eurostar terminal Mon, 01 Nov 2021 12:03:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/11/01/scots-breweries-aim-for-the-big-time https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/11/01/scots-breweries-aim-for-the-big-time 25 breweries in Britain and Ireland have joined forces to to brew collaborative beers led by Toast using surplus bread as their contribution to tackling waste. They have written an open letter to world leaders who will attend COP26 to step up the campaign to tackle climate change. Fri, 15 Oct 2021 13:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/10/15/brewers-unite-in-bid-to-boost-cop26 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/10/15/brewers-unite-in-bid-to-boost-cop26 The annual Fuller's Vintage Ale has been released to please beer lovers everywhere. This year's vintage is brewed with pale, caragold and roasted crystal malts with Target, Endeavour, Olicana and CF 182 hops Sun, 03 Oct 2021 16:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/10/03/fuller-s-vintage-livens-autumn-beer-scene https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/10/03/fuller-s-vintage-livens-autumn-beer-scene Nottingham was once dominated by two big breweries, now long gone. Today there's a large number of artisan breweries, led by Castle Rock, offering great choice drinkers. And there are some superb pubs, including the Kean's Head in the historic Lace Market. Fri, 10 Sep 2021 11:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/09/10/nottingham-great-beer-great-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/09/10/nottingham-great-beer-great-pubs As a result of the pandemic and lockdowns, real ale needs to massively promoted to get drinkers back into pubs and enjoying fresh and unpasteurised beer. The organisers of Cask Ale Week 2021 have set out a whole raft of proposals to get handpumps working again -- and this involves bar staff as well as punters Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/09/09/all-hands-to-the-pumps-to-boost-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/09/09/all-hands-to-the-pumps-to-boost-cask-ale Fears that cask beer would not recover from the lockdowns have been knocked aside by reports from both regional and smaller breweries that sales are booming. Two family brewers, Charles Wells in Bedford, and Everards in Leicester have downsizes to new plants, Brewpoint and the Beer Hall, where cask ales are central to their plans. Pictured: the Brew Hall. Mon, 23 Aug 2021 11:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/08/23/cask-beer-is-bouncing-back https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/08/23/cask-beer-is-bouncing-back In Modern British Beer, Matthew Curtis has trawled the country to find breweries producing beers packed with exciting aromas and flavours. It's not just another book about IPAs, but covers a variety of styles from pale ale to Saison, sour, barley wine, stout and lager Sun, 15 Aug 2021 12:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/08/15/curtis-beer-is-blooming-in-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/08/15/curtis-beer-is-blooming-in-britain River Cottage, founded by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, has teamed up with Stroud Brewery to launch three new organic beers, using ingredients that aid the environment by avoiding the use of chemicals and fertilisers. The beers include a new hop, CF257, that is undergoing trials with leading hop merchant Charles Faram. Two of the beers include stinging nettles and hemp flour Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/07/27/river-cottage-stroud-join-forces-with-organic-beers-including-nettles-and-hemp https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/07/27/river-cottage-stroud-join-forces-with-organic-beers-including-nettles-and-hemp In spite of the impact of the pandemic and lockdowns, Thornbridge Brewery in Derbyshire is witnessing record ales of its beers and it retains a strong commitment to cask ale, including its brand leader, Jaipur IPA Sun, 25 Jul 2021 14:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/07/25/thornbridge-sees-off-the-pandemic https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/07/25/thornbridge-sees-off-the-pandemic The Cask Matters Group, made up of brewers and industry leaders, is urging all beer lovers to head for the pub and enjoy cask ale. During the lockdown more than 87 million pints of cask beer, worth £30 million, were poured down the drain and Paul Nunny of Cask Matters says we need to support our "national treasure" or it could disappear. Mon, 19 Jul 2021 09:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/07/19/it-s-time-to-give-cask-beer-a-big-boost https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/07/19/it-s-time-to-give-cask-beer-a-big-boost Quantock Brewery has celebrated its 1,500th brew with Milestone 1500, a 6.5 per cent beer described as a "Mountain IPA", combining West Coast and East Coast styles. The brewery was founded in 2008 with an eight-barrel plant that can produce 300 casks per week. Tue, 13 Jul 2021 17:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/07/13/quantock-celebrates-with-milestone-ipa https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/07/13/quantock-celebrates-with-milestone-ipa Ralph Findlay, the soon-to-retire chief executive of Marston's brewery and pub company, says the beer world has changed dramatically in recent years and younger drinkers are no longer passionate about cask ale. The group's biggest beer brands are Hobgoblin and Wainwright's while such revered ales as Pedigree and Banks's are struggling. He says the merger with Carlsberg will give Marston's greater muscle in the free trade Fri, 09 Jul 2021 13:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/07/09/marston-s-boss-cask-is-under-the-cosh https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/07/09/marston-s-boss-cask-is-under-the-cosh BrewDog was meant to offer something different in the world of beer. It attracted young drinkers with Punk beer and encouraged them to invest in the brewery with an Equity for Punks scheme. But now employees have accused founders James Watt and Martin Dickie (pictured) of creating a toxic atmosphere at the company with a "growth at all costs" attitude. And a large parcel of shares have been sold to investment companies based in the tax haven of the Cayman Islands Wed, 07 Jul 2021 16:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2021/07/07/brewdog-saga-leaves-a-sour-taste https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2021/07/07/brewdog-saga-leaves-a-sour-taste The Magdala Tavern in Hampstead, North London, is famous as the place where Ruth Ellis -- the last woman to be hanged in Britain -- shot her lover in 1955. The pub, owned by Punch Taverns, had been closed since 2014 but it's been bought by Dick Morgan who also runs the Express Tavern in Kew and the Sussex Arms in Twickenham. He has spent £250,000 restoring a famous North London landmark with a fine range of beers Sat, 03 Jul 2021 17:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/07/03/historic-magdala-is-back-in-business https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/07/03/historic-magdala-is-back-in-business A famous East End pub, the Boleyn Tavern, has been restored to its Victorian splendour thanks to a £1 million refurbishment by its owners, Remarkable Pubs. The pub was opened in 1900 by the Limehouse brewer Taylor Walker and it was visited on several occasions by Mahatma Gandhi when he was studying in London. The pub fell into disrepair when West Ham United moved to Stratford but it's now fully open with a good range of cask beers Sun, 27 Jun 2021 10:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/06/27/historic-cockney-pub-restored-to-glory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/06/27/historic-cockney-pub-restored-to-glory The future of the Iron Duke pub in Great Yarmouth hangs in the balance as the local council and preservation trust decide whether its future is as a pub or retail or private building. The Art Deco pub was built in the 1930s but has been closed for 15 years. It's now Grade II-listed but this will not protect it from being turned into different, alternative use Mon, 21 Jun 2021 20:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/06/21/battle-royal-to-save-art-deco-gem https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/06/21/battle-royal-to-save-art-deco-gem Freedom Day may off the agenda on 21 June but beer lovers can celebrate International Gnome Day with five beers from the celebrated La Chouffe brewery in Belgium. The chouffe are mythical gnomes who lived in the forests of the Ardennes and their image graces the labels and pump clips of the brewery. Draught versions will feature during a tap takeover in Britain while bottled versions will be on sale in key outlets. Pictured: Chris Bauweraerts, founder of the brewery with a gnomic friend Fri, 18 Jun 2021 13:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/06/18/chouffe-has-great-beers-to-go-gnome-to https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/06/18/chouffe-has-great-beers-to-go-gnome-to As the Campaign for Real Ale celebrates its 50th anniversary, a book by Laura Hadland charts the history of CAMRA, the rise and fall of keg beer, the growth of British lager and the dynamic impact of Progressive Beer Duty. With sales of cask beer in crisis as a result of the pandemic and pub shutdowns, the campaign is as a relevant today as it was in the 1970s. Mon, 14 Jun 2021 10:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/06/14/camra-50-carry-on-campaigning https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/06/14/camra-50-carry-on-campaigning Matthew Curtis and Orlando Gili have given London pubs a much-needed boost with a gem of a book that lists 52 of the finest pubs in London. They list pubs in all parts of the capital, ranging from old coaching inns to modern watering holes, including one converted from a mock-Tudor public convenience Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/06/03/a-paean-of-praise-for-london-s-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/06/03/a-paean-of-praise-for-london-s-pubs A coalition of brewers, consumers and pub groups has joined forces to urge the Chancellor to reduce the duty charged on draught beer to help pubs compete more fairly with cut-price beer in supermarkets. The group says a cut in duty would create many jobs for the pub sector and would encourage drinkers to use pubs more often Wed, 19 May 2021 12:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/05/19/coalition-calls-for-beer-tax-relief-for-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/05/19/coalition-calls-for-beer-tax-relief-for-pubs Just when you thought there could be no further versions of IPA, along come two new interpretations -- Milk Shake and wild. Milk Shake IPAs are brewed with the addition of lactose that can't be fermented by brewer's yeast and gives a creamy note to the beer, while wild Brettanomyces yeast leaves a funky and acidic note. The Brett beers are brewed by Beavertown (pictured) Sat, 08 May 2021 12:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/05/08/the-ipa-bandwagon-goes-rolling-on https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/05/08/the-ipa-bandwagon-goes-rolling-on Saltaire Brewery in Shipley, West Yorkshire, has brewed a 5% Helles beer, along the lines of the famous Bavarian style consumed in large quantities in Munich beer gardens. The beer is cold conditioned or lagered for six weeks Tue, 04 May 2021 10:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/05/04/saltaire-brews-a-helles-of-a-good-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/05/04/saltaire-brews-a-helles-of-a-good-lager Innis & Gunn has launched an Islay Whisky Cask beer that has been aged in casks at the famous Laphroaig distillery on the island. The casks give the beer a peat, oak and iodine note, with the beer contributing roasted grain and hop character. It's a one-off special edition and will not be repeated so order now Mon, 19 Apr 2021 10:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/04/19/beer-and-whisky-unite-on-islay https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/04/19/beer-and-whisky-unite-on-islay The Hophurst Brewery in Wigan brews great beers and also helps re-skill people over 50 to enable them to get back into the labour market. The brewery opened in 2014 and now has big range of beers available in local pubs and bars and plans its own taproom. Thu, 15 Apr 2021 16:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/04/15/wigan-brewery-beers-with-hops-a-heart https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/04/15/wigan-brewery-beers-with-hops-a-heart The Philosophy of Beer by Jane Peyton covers the history of the world's favourite alcohol, from its inception in the Old World, through its arrival in Europe, the introduction of hops, and the scientific understanding of yeast that led to modern lager. The book also covers matching beer and food and the health attributes of moderate consumption. Mon, 05 Apr 2021 14:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/04/05/brilliant-romp-through-beer-s-history https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2021/04/05/brilliant-romp-through-beer-s-history As CAMRA celebrates its 50th anniversary, it also recognises the strong links between the organisation and St Albans. The city is home to the head office while the local branch, South Herts, is the oldest in the country, founded at the Farriers Arms pub in 1972 (pictured) The branch also runs one of the most successful beer festivals in the country Fri, 19 Mar 2021 09:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/03/19/camra-50-the-st-albans-link https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2021/03/19/camra-50-the-st-albans-link New breweries, numbering 210, opened in 2020 despite the corona virus and the shut down of pubs for many months, according to figures from the leading accountancy firm UHY Hacker Young. There are now 3,018 breweries in the UK and the company thinks many owners looked for new routes to market when pub sales were not available. It thinks drinkers are becoming more adventurous and are seeking out new styles of beer. Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/03/15/boom-in-new-breweries-beats-lockdown https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/03/15/boom-in-new-breweries-beats-lockdown The Czech brewer Budweiser Budvar has relaunched its strong 7.5 per cent beer as Budvar Reserve with new main and neck labels. The beer is aged for 200 days in the cellars of the brewery in Ceske Budejovice/Budweis and is brewed with pale malt from Moravia, acclaimed Saaz hops and pure, soft water from a well 300 metres below the brewery. The beer is available in bottle in Britain and in kegs when pubs reopen. Thu, 04 Mar 2021 09:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/03/04/strong-budvar-flexes-its-muscles https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/03/04/strong-budvar-flexes-its-muscles Duvel Moortgat in Belgium is celebrating 150 years of brewing with a new version of its famous Duvel blond ale. Duvel 6.66% uses six hops and has added orange zest alongside the famous Poire William character of the original beer. Head brewer Hedwig Neven also worked in collaboration with the 't IJ' brewery in Amsterdam, which is now owned by Duvel Moortgat. Thu, 18 Feb 2021 10:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/02/18/duvel-marks-150-years-with-devilish-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/02/18/duvel-marks-150-years-with-devilish-beer A team of American and Egyptian archaeologists has found a large brewing complex at Abydos near Luxor in Egypt. It's thought to be the oldest brewery in the world and dates from the time of King Narmer, founder of the First Dynasty. The brewery contained hundreds of pots in which grain and water were heated. Hops were not used at the time. The beer is thought to have been drunk at royal rituals and funerals. Tue, 16 Feb 2021 10:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/02/16/world-s-oldest-brewery-found-in-egypt https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/02/16/world-s-oldest-brewery-found-in-egypt For the first time in its 30-year history, Black Sheep Brewery in Masham, North Yorkshire, is offering its Best Bitter in bottle. It's one of the country's best-selling ales but to date it has only been available in cask format. But now the closure of pubs and the demand from drinkers has encouraged the brewery to offer the beer in bottle Mon, 15 Feb 2021 12:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/02/15/after-30-years-black-sheep-hits-the-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/02/15/after-30-years-black-sheep-hits-the-bottle Two craft brewers in Hertfordshire -- in common with small brewers everywhere -- are having a tough time. Farr Brew is planning to pour casks of ale down the drain and its cellars are full of unsold stock while 3 Brewers has its brewer furloughed and can't supply the 200 pubs that take its beer. Pictured: Farr Brew pumps on the bar of the Elephant & Castle in Amwell Fri, 29 Jan 2021 14:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/01/29/lockdown-pouring-beer-down-the-drain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/01/29/lockdown-pouring-beer-down-the-drain One of Britain's oldest craft breweries, St Peter's in Suffolk, has been bought by a group of beer lovers following the decision by founder John Murphy to retire. The brewery, based in an old moated hall in the countryside, is famous for its quirky oval bottles and for a range of ales and no-alcohol beers. Wed, 27 Jan 2021 09:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/01/27/new-team-buys-st-peter-s-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2021/01/27/new-team-buys-st-peter-s-brewery While the government has banned pubs from selling take home beer, retail outlets -- including petrol stations -- are free to sell alcohol. Twice as many pubs closed in 2020 compared to the previous year and it's expected many more will close as a result of the restrictions. Pictured, the King William IV in St Albans, now closed, while three retail outlets yards away can sell alcohol all day and evening. Fri, 08 Jan 2021 14:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2021/01/08/blinkered-thinking-is-wrecking-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2021/01/08/blinkered-thinking-is-wrecking-pubs Carol Ross, landlady of the Roscoe Head in Liverpool, is finally victorious. She now owns the historic pub after years of struggle with Punch Taverns and New River Retail. She is now free to sell the beers she favours, not those imposed on her by giant pub companies. Carol is full of praise for her supporters throughout the country who backed her in her battle for freedom Mon, 28 Dec 2020 10:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/12/28/roscoe-great-victory-for-all-pub-lovers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/12/28/roscoe-great-victory-for-all-pub-lovers Two breweries in the English Midlands and the Scottish Borders have brought back two noble beer styles from the 19th and 20th centuries. In Northampton, Phipps has aged a batch of its Stingo barley wine for a year while Broughton in Scotland has kept a batch of Imperial Russian Stout in its cellars for 20 years. Wed, 16 Dec 2020 14:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/12/16/two-beers-shine-a-light-on-brewing-s-past https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/12/16/two-beers-shine-a-light-on-brewing-s-past Not all pubs are open but there's still plenty of good beer available to help celebrate the festive season. They range from ale from Britain's oldest brewery to beers from modern craft producers. There's a stout, too, plus the revival of an ancient style, Audit Ale, that was once brewed for Oxford and Cambridge colleges that had audit feasts when they finished their annual accounts Sun, 06 Dec 2020 17:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/12/06/yule-tide-over-with-great-xmas-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/12/06/yule-tide-over-with-great-xmas-beers Back in the 1970s the strength of beer and the ingredients used were treated like state secrets by breweries. CAMRA unlocked the doors and consumers began to learn more about their favourite brews. Beer writers started to develop a language for beer appreciation -- derided at first but now widely accepted. Pictured: Butty Bach from Wye Valley with information about strength and ingredients on the back label Wed, 25 Nov 2020 12:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/11/25/how-our-love-affair-with-beer-has-grown https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/11/25/how-our-love-affair-with-beer-has-grown Marston's has launched Horninglow No 3, the third in its special edition of bottle-conditioned beers that are brewed in the historic Burton Union oak barrels. No 3 is a New England style IPA using American hops. The beer is bottle conditioned and at 7.4 per cent ABV it will age for several years Tue, 10 Nov 2020 16:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/11/10/union-power-drives-new-marston-s-ipa https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/11/10/union-power-drives-new-marston-s-ipa A new system of home brewing produces beer in just seven days and is so easy that even renowned fumble fingers can do it without ruining the kitchen. The range includes Pale Ale, IPA, Pilsner and lager...and the manufacturer says the beers will be better if they are allowed to condition for a few days more Mon, 09 Nov 2020 16:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/11/09/home-brewing-with-a-modern-twist https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/11/09/home-brewing-with-a-modern-twist A once obscure beer style from the Wallonia region of Belgium has now been taken up by brewers in many parts of the world. Saison was originally a seasonal beer brewed by farmers to refresh their workers at harvest time but it's now produced all year round. The classic Saison comes from the Dupont brewery based on a former farm in the Hainaut region Fri, 06 Nov 2020 11:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/11/06/tis-the-saison-to-be-merry https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/11/06/tis-the-saison-to-be-merry Exmoor Ales head brewer Tom Davis has produced a strong version of the regular 6.6 per cent Beast. Megabeast is 10.2 per cent and is brewed with pale, crystal and chocolate malts and has four hops. It's bottle conditioned and the perfect companion for blue cheese Fri, 30 Oct 2020 10:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/30/grab-this-big-beer-beast-from-exmoor https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/30/grab-this-big-beer-beast-from-exmoor Melissa Cole's new book while small is not just for drinkers with little knowledge of the subject but contains a lot of information of interest to seasoned drinkers and even fellow beer writers. It covers not only golden Pilsners but Helles, Dunkel, Bock, Schwarz, Zwickel and a myriad of other versions. Thu, 29 Oct 2020 11:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2020/10/29/little-book-with-nuggets-of-beery-joy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2020/10/29/little-book-with-nuggets-of-beery-joy The 2021 edition of the Good Beer Guide, published by CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, says the coronavirus pandemic has caused havoc for British pubs, many of which have not reopened since the first national lockdown was lifted in the summer. And for the first time for many years, the Guide reports a decline in the number of breweries operating in the country Thu, 29 Oct 2020 09:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/29/virus-wreaks-havoc-for-british-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/29/virus-wreaks-havoc-for-british-pubs Fuller's Vintage Ale 2020 is now available and this year it's been brewed with two English hops, Godiva and Jester, and gets colour and flavour from a special malt called DRC or Dark Roasted Crystal, created by Simpson's Malt. Mon, 19 Oct 2020 12:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/19/fuller-s-vintage-goes-on-the-dark-side https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/19/fuller-s-vintage-goes-on-the-dark-side The Munich Oktoberfest has been cancelled this year but you can sample a Marzen or March beer -- the style once brewed for the festival by Munich brewers. This version comes from The Park Brewery in Kingston upon Thames and is true to style, using Munich and Vienna malts and hops from the Hallertau region Tue, 13 Oct 2020 16:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/13/oktoberfest-classic--from-south-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/10/13/oktoberfest-classic--from-south-london A decade ago the English hop industry was on its knees as more and more brewers imported hops from abroad. But the revived British Hops Association has breathed life back into the market and has developed a new range of plants that deliver the rich, fruity aromas and flavours that craft brewers demand. Tue, 06 Oct 2020 13:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/10/06/hats-off-to-british-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/10/06/hats-off-to-british-hops Cask Ale Week starts on 24 September and, despite the new restrictions on pub opening hours, it will encourage beer lovers to go to their locals and enjoy a style of beer that's unique to Britain. Dozens of breweries have activities planned for the week, including launching special beers for the occasion Thu, 24 Sep 2020 08:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/09/24/cask-ale-week-bids-to-beat-the-blues https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/09/24/cask-ale-week-bids-to-beat-the-blues Black Sheep Brewery in the Yorkshire Dales is getting ready for Cask Ale Week with a new tankard for its draught beers in selected pubs in Yorkshire and North-east England. The brewery says cask beer is unique to Britain and it wants to boost its popularity with the powerful image of the tankard Tue, 15 Sep 2020 10:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/09/15/new-look-tankard-for-black-sheep-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/09/15/new-look-tankard-for-black-sheep-ale Ageing beer in oak casks is coming back into fashion as brewers discover the added aromas and flavours wood can give their beers. Alastair Simms is seen at the White Rose Cooperage in Yorkshire with a fine collection of oak casks. Classic lager brewers lined oaks casks with pitch to avoid woody flavours infecting the beer Thu, 10 Sep 2020 11:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2020/09/10/why-wood-gives-a-magic-touch https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2020/09/10/why-wood-gives-a-magic-touch Stroud Brewery has joined forces with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and River Cottage to produce two beers to celebrate Organic September. The beers are Organic Stinger Golden Ale and Organic Rye PA. Stinger is brewed with the addition of organic nettles Fri, 28 Aug 2020 10:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/28/river-cottage-and-stroud-join-forces-with-beers-for-organic-september https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/28/river-cottage-and-stroud-join-forces-with-beers-for-organic-september Scottish brewer BrewDog plans to plant one million trees by 2020 in the Highlands in a bid to capture carbon. Founders James Watt and Martin Dickie say that while they have reduced carbon emissions at the brewery they knew, when they heard a lecture on climate change by Sir David Attenborough, they had to do more to help save the planet. The BrewDog Forest will host retreats and workshops for drinkers who want to do more to help the planet survive Sun, 23 Aug 2020 15:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/23/brewdog-in-bid-to-save-the-planet https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/23/brewdog-in-bid-to-save-the-planet Ardbeg's whisky distillery on Islay has joined forces with William Brothers' Brewery in Alloa to produce a smoky porter, using the distillery's own peated malt. The profits from the beer will be donated to build clean water wells in Malawi. Wed, 12 Aug 2020 09:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/12/whisky-beer-to-aid-africa-water-campaign https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/12/whisky-beer-to-aid-africa-water-campaign The Budvan is a new service from Budweiser Budvar that delivers fresh Budvar Original to pubs with a full back-up service that enables the Czech lager to be served in tip-top condition. The Buvan is seen delivering beer to the Forge pub near Leicester, part of the Beautiful Pubs group. Tue, 04 Aug 2020 08:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/04/czeching-in-budvan-s-new-pub-service https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/08/04/czeching-in-budvan-s-new-pub-service Bill Tidy at the age of 86 has hung up his pens and sketch pads after years of tickling the nation's ribs with such strip cartoons as the Cloggies and the Fosdyke Saga. He created Kegbuster in the 1970s for CAMRA's What's Brewing newspaper where he lampooned the activities of the Grotny Hardmen and Twitbread and their lacklustre keg beers. Wed, 29 Jul 2020 19:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/07/29/billy-tidy-fizz-fun-and-keg-buster https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/07/29/billy-tidy-fizz-fun-and-keg-buster Plans by the Treasury to reform the tax incentives in Small Brewers Relief have caused a major row in the brewing industry. By changing the threshold at which higher duty is levied, a number of small brewers say they could be forced out of business. A coalition of bigger brewers say the current threshold is a barrier to growth and needs to be removed. Both SIBA, the voice of small brewers, and CAMRA are opposing the changes Thu, 23 Jul 2020 11:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/23/brewers-at-war-over-tax-reform https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/23/brewers-at-war-over-tax-reform Rudi Keyser, founder of Watling Street Brewery in North London, was so inspired by the work of the NHS in combating the coronavirus pandemic that he volunteered to work at the Nightingale Hospital in Docklands and also brewed a special pale Nighting Ale with £1 from every sale going to the Covid-19 appeal. Sat, 18 Jul 2020 14:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/18/beer-inspired-by-nightingale-backs-nhs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/18/beer-inspired-by-nightingale-backs-nhs Georgina Young, former head brewer with Fuller's in London, has been appointed director of brewing for the St Austell group. She moved to Bath Ales's new Hare Brewery in 2019 but, following the death of Roger Ryman in May, she is now charge of brewing operations in Cornwall as well as Bath. Thu, 16 Jul 2020 15:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/16/georgina-young-heads-st-austell-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/16/georgina-young-heads-st-austell-brewing The Mawson Arms, Fuller's Grade II-listed brewery tap in Chiswick, West London, is to close. The pub dates from the 18th century and was named after the Mawson family that bought two small breweries near the Thames that later merged into Fuller, Smith & Turner. The brewery was sold to Asahi of Japan in 2019 and Fuller's is now a pub company. It has moved to new offices and says the pub is surplus to requirements. Wed, 15 Jul 2020 11:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/15/fuller-s-historic-brewery-tap-to-close https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/07/15/fuller-s-historic-brewery-tap-to-close Hogs Back Brewery in Surrey has launched an East Coast IPA to celebrate the re-opening of pubs on 4 July. Seven hops are used in the beer, including Cascade grown in the brewery's own garden. The hop garden covers 8.5 acres and supplies the brewery with 50% of its hops needs. A malt kiln will be added to dry hops within 24 hours of being picked. Mon, 29 Jun 2020 12:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/06/29/hogs-back-ipa-celebrates-return-of-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/06/29/hogs-back-ipa-celebrates-return-of-pubs Steve Crawley has brought the much-missed Higson's beers back to Liverpool -- but there's a lot more to be found at the Love Lane Brewery in the fashionable Baltic Triangle. Pale Ale is far and away the biggest beer, backed by IPAs and Baltic Stout. And there are modern gins to please a young clientele as well as excellent food Fri, 26 Jun 2020 15:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/06/26/liverpool-gets-a-love-in-at-love-lane https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/06/26/liverpool-gets-a-love-in-at-love-lane Roger Ryman, who has died at the tragically early age of 52, turned round the fortunes of St Austell Brewery with two beers that have achieved national sales. Tribute, first called Daylight Robbery, was meant to be a one-off monthly brew but sales "went ballistic". It was followed by Proper Job, considered to be one of the finest of the new wave IPAs. Mon, 01 Jun 2020 11:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/06/01/roger-ryman-a-proper-job-brewer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/06/01/roger-ryman-a-proper-job-brewer It's when the pubs are closed that you realise how much you miss them. Here's a run down of just some of the hostelries I have visited and treasured over the years. Pictured: the Boleyn Tavern in London E6 that used to stand next to West Ham United football ground Thu, 28 May 2020 14:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/28/pubs-you-always-miss-the-ones-you-love https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/28/pubs-you-always-miss-the-ones-you-love Carlsberg is the dominant partner in the new brewing group formed with Marston's -- and the Danish giant does not enjoy a good track record where cask ale is concerned. It closed the major Tetley Brewery in Leeds and axed the award-winning Draught Burton Ale and there are now concerns for the future of Draught Bass, which Marton's brews for AB InBev Tue, 26 May 2020 10:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/05/26/carlsberg-cask-remember-burton-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/05/26/carlsberg-cask-remember-burton-ale The merger between Carlsberg and Marston's gives the Danish giant the upper hand. "Synergies" will mean accountants will be looking for cost-cutting and savings and this could be bad news for some of the breweries and brands in the Marston's group. And the future of Draught Bass, brewed by Marston's for AB InBev, could be in doubt. Left, the main brewery in Burton-on-Trent Sat, 23 May 2020 13:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/05/23/merger-will-marston-s-lose-its-pedigree https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/05/23/merger-will-marston-s-lose-its-pedigree Leading Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn has submitted plans to Edinburgh council for a new brewery to be based at Heriot-Watt University with its world-famous school of brewing. I&G plans to produce both lager and its Original oak-aged beer at the new site, which will also have facilities for canning and bottling. Pictured: an artist's impression of the new brewery Thu, 21 May 2020 11:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/05/21/plans-for-brewery-at-edinburgh-university https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/05/21/plans-for-brewery-at-edinburgh-university There's been a lively debate on Twitter about an old system used to serve Irish stouts. It was known as the two cask or high and low system. One cask held freshly-fermented beer, the second older, mature beer. The system was phased out when Guinness developed a new keg method that served the stout with a mixture of carbon dioxide and nitrogen gasses Wed, 13 May 2020 14:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/13/the-highs-and-lows-of-draught-guinness https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/13/the-highs-and-lows-of-draught-guinness When some bottles of beer were discovered in the cellars of the former Allsopps' brewery in Burton-on-Trent they turned out be to Arctic Ale, brewed in 1875. They had been produced for the crew of ships sent by Queen Victoria to find the survivors of an earlier attempt to navigate the North West Passage from the Atlantic to the Pacific. When a small group assembled in Burton in 2011 the key question was: "Will the beer be drinkable?" Mon, 11 May 2020 10:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/11/taste-of-history-ale-brewed-for-the-arctic https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/11/taste-of-history-ale-brewed-for-the-arctic Are bottle-conditioned beers better than beers that have been filtered? The evidence says Yes. Not only are modern beers with live yeast more flavourful but some beers more than 100 years old remain in fine drinking condition as a result of secondary fermentation in bottle, as a tasting of old Bass "corkers" (pictured) proved Sat, 09 May 2020 13:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/09/how-a-little-yeast-gives-beer-some-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/09/how-a-little-yeast-gives-beer-some-bottle Duncan Sambrook opened his brewery in Battersea when Young's closed in Wandsworth in 2006. Now Duncan plans to move his plant to the former Young's site that's now part of the Ram Quarter of housing and offices. He will restore a tradition of brewing that goes back to the time of Elizabeth the First. Fri, 08 May 2020 11:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/08/duncan-sambrook-is-young-s-at-heart https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/08/duncan-sambrook-is-young-s-at-heart Great lager beers come from Central Europe while Britain is saddled with the mass-produced brews produced by global brewers. But small independent brewers in Britain are now making some fine interpretations of the style -- and king of the heap is Curious Brew, which uses wine techniques including Champagne yeast Thu, 07 May 2020 12:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/07/it-s-curious--a-great-british-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/05/07/it-s-curious--a-great-british-lager Pubs may be shut with no firm date for re-opening but beer lovers can take a visual tour of award-winning hostelries chosen by CAMRA's Pub Design Awards. They include some new builds and some pubs that have been restored to their former glory. The winners include the Farmers' Arms in Devon (pictured) Tue, 05 May 2020 10:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/05/05/take-a-visual-tour-of-award-winning-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/05/05/take-a-visual-tour-of-award-winning-pubs Brewers in East London and Somerset are launching special initiatives to back the hard-press NHS during the coronavirus crisis. Signature Brew, who specialise in collaboration beers with rock bands, has produced Nightingale Pale Ale, with £1 from each can going to the NHS. Pitchfork plans a virtual beer festival with again part of the proceeds going to the health service. Wed, 29 Apr 2020 17:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/29/brewers-come-to-the-aid-of-the-nhs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/29/brewers-come-to-the-aid-of-the-nhs Carol Ross, pictured, landlady of the Roscoe Head in Liverpool -- one of the Famous Five pubs to feature in every edition of the Good Beer Guide -- is once again locked in a dispute with her landlord over its future. Last year New River Retail said it would more than double her rent and refused her request for Market Rent Only that would allow her sell beers free of the tie. Her lease is up for renewal and it's unclear whether New River will keep her on Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/27/new-struggle-over-future-of-roscoe-head https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/27/new-struggle-over-future-of-roscoe-head A report by SIBA, the Society of Independent Brewers, shows that beer sales from small craft brewers are down by 82 per cent since the coronavirus lockdown was brought in. A number of small brewers are considering making staff redundant as they have no received no government support. 65 per cent of SIBA members have suspended brewing and some fear they may never start again. SIBA is calling on the government to defer beer duty until the crisis is over Fri, 17 Apr 2020 09:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/17/craft-brewers-hammered-by-lockdown https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/17/craft-brewers-hammered-by-lockdown The usually secretive Yorkshire brewer Sam Smith's is up front and out on the streets, using its traditional horse-drawn drays to deliver bottled beers to people locked in doors and unable to go to the pub Wed, 15 Apr 2020 16:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/15/sam-smith-s-horses-deliver-beer-at-home https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/15/sam-smith-s-horses-deliver-beer-at-home The nation's pubs are shut tight and it's not the first time they have suffered during a time of crisis. During the First World War, the teetotal Liberal politician David Lloyd George (pictured) drove through measures that drastically cut pub opening hours, increased the price of beer and remodelled pubs to make them less cheerful places to visit. Massive rises in beer duty led to stronger beers such as IPA becoming a shadow of their former selves Thu, 09 Apr 2020 13:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/04/09/beer-and-pubs-in-the-firing-line https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/04/09/beer-and-pubs-in-the-firing-line As the pub lockdown enters its second week, pubs in England, Scotland and Wales are offering help to their communities with delivery services of fresh food, meals-on-wheels for senior citizens and accommodation for NHS nurses. Pictured: fire fighters at Cwbran with food parcels supplied by Brain's brewery in Cardiff Mon, 06 Apr 2020 09:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/06/pub-heroes-boost-their-communities https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/04/06/pub-heroes-boost-their-communities Publicans and brewers are worried over what to do with unused beer during the coronavirus lockdown and closed pubs -- can they claim back for lost sales and pre-paid duty? The chairman of a leading regional brewer offers his advice Sun, 05 Apr 2020 12:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/04/05/lockdown-what-to-do-with-waste-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/04/05/lockdown-what-to-do-with-waste-beer Should cask beer be treated as a premium product, as suggested by James Calder, the chief executive of SIBA, the Society of Independent Brewers? A pint of Taylor's Landlord at £3.50 in a backstreet pub in Dartford, Kent, keeps in the reach of people on low incomes. Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:32:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/03/30/a-pint-of-landlord-gives-hope-for-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2020/03/30/a-pint-of-landlord-gives-hope-for-cask The history of brewing, the raw materials used and the wide range of styles are discussed in a lively new book by writer Natalya Watson, who studied at UCLA in California and then worked for Duvel Moortgat. She currently secretary of the British Guild of Beer Writers and judges in beer competitions as well giving talks and tastings Tue, 24 Mar 2020 16:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2020/03/24/beer-styles-watson-is-in-her-element https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2020/03/24/beer-styles-watson-is-in-her-element Sainsbury's has come to the rescue of drinkers who can't get to the pub. The supermarket group has launched a range of six beers from craft brewers that are a long way removed from mainstream beers.Several use unusual ingredients and some IPAs are well-hopped with American and Kiwi varieties Fri, 20 Mar 2020 10:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/20/sainsbury-s-six-to-the-rescue https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/20/sainsbury-s-six-to-the-rescue The Campaign for Real Ale and the Society of Independent Brewers have joined forces in an attempt to boost pubs and breweries during the corona virus crisis. They will encourage pubs to make meals and beer available for home delivery for people who are forced to self-isolate. CAMRA is also working with Crowdfunder to help raise much-needed income for pubs Thu, 19 Mar 2020 11:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/19/camra-siba-in-bid-to-boost-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/19/camra-siba-in-bid-to-boost-beer Hog Star Brewery in Tongham, Surrey, has launched a special take-home service for customers who can't get to the pub during the corona crisis. It's a drive through service where customers stay in their cars while beer is packed into their boots by members of staff who keep a safe distance. Beers include the best-selling TEA, Hop Star Lager, and Nirvana Session IPA Wed, 18 Mar 2020 13:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/18/take-home-beers-beat-the-virus-blues https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/18/take-home-beers-beat-the-virus-blues Liverpool is famous for its pubs but it's worth wandering into the backstreets to find some hidden gems, such as Ye Cracke (pictured), where John Lennon used to drink when he was at the nearby art college. There's more Beatles memorabilia at the Grapes in Mathew Street, close to the Cavern Club, and at the nearby White Star. The Roscoe Head has a fine offering of beer and needs support in case its owners close it. For the new face of Liverpool, don't miss the Love Lane brewery and tap Sun, 15 Mar 2020 14:53:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/03/15/beer-and-beatles-are-still-the-mersey-beat https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/03/15/beer-and-beatles-are-still-the-mersey-beat Greene King has teamed up with Bristol-based micro-brewery Tapestry to produce a cask pale ale, Encounter, that will aid charity work in sub-Saharan Africa. Five pence of every pint bought will be donated to Save a Cow, Tapestry's chosen charity. Pictured left are GK head brewer Ross O'Hara and Tapestry co-founder Calum Doutch at the brewery in Bury St Edmunds Mon, 09 Mar 2020 11:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/09/gk-collab-helps-tackle-african-poverty https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/09/gk-collab-helps-tackle-african-poverty Kent brewer Shepherd Neame is celebrating one year of its Cask Club with a new beer that reaches out to today's legion of gin drinkers. Why Can't We Be Fronds? is brewed with Kentish hops and the addition of juniper berries and elderflower. Half a million pints of beer have been poured since the brewer launched Cask Club with a new ale every month, some brewed in collaboration with other breweries. The April beer will be based on a recipe from legendary American brewer Samuel Adams. Sun, 08 Mar 2020 12:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/08/shep-s-new-cask-reaches-out-to-gin-lovers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/08/shep-s-new-cask-reaches-out-to-gin-lovers The Campaign for Real Ale -- CAMRA -- has unveiled new research carried out by European Economics that shows a cut in beer duty for draught beer would help pubs struggling against competition from supermarkets. The research was launched at the House of Commons by Chris Watling MP (seen left) with CAMRA chairman Nik Antona Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/05/camra-call-to-cut-duty-to-save-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/03/05/camra-call-to-cut-duty-to-save-pubs A new edition of Tim Skelton's guide reveals the number of breweries and beer cafes has grown enormously since the first edition in 2014 and there are now many fine styles to enjoy. The guide is a romp through Dutch history and culture and will lead the visitor to a wealth of fine bars and beers Sat, 29 Feb 2020 12:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2020/02/29/dutch-beer-no-longer-in-thrall-to-belgium https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2020/02/29/dutch-beer-no-longer-in-thrall-to-belgium The All Parliamentary Beer Group, one of the oldest and most influential groups of MPs and Peers, is calling on the government in its Budget in March to make fundamental changes to both Business Rates and Beer Duty in order to allow high street pubs to flourish. At present the burden of rates and the high price of beer is leading to many pubs closing. Britain's oldest pub, the Old Fighting Cocks in St Albans (pictured), has been forced to close for two days a week in order to cut costs Thu, 27 Feb 2020 11:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/02/27/mps-demand-action-on-rates-beer-duty https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/02/27/mps-demand-action-on-rates-beer-duty Hinckley in Leicestershire is the birthplace of three men who went on to carve out important roles in British brewing. William Bass,William Worthington and William Butler all have blue plaques on their homes and the local museum has staged a special event to mark their contribution to brewing Mon, 24 Feb 2020 16:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/02/24/bass-socks-it-to-em-in-hinckley https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/02/24/bass-socks-it-to-em-in-hinckley Derby has a number of pubs that still serve the legendary Draught Bass from nearby Burton-on-Trent. The pubs include the 16th-century and haunted Olde Dolphin (pictured) along with other historic pubs such as the Smithfield and Old Bell coaching inns.They all prove that whether served from a hand pump or straight from the cask, Bass is still a fine ale Sun, 16 Feb 2020 16:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/02/16/derby-a-fine-host-for-much-loved-bass https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2020/02/16/derby-a-fine-host-for-much-loved-bass A village pub on the Cambridge-Herts border has been saved from developers by locals. They raised £250,000 to buy the the 17th-century Three Tuns in Guilden Morden on the ancient Icknield Way and Ermine Street. The pub reopened in 2019 and has won a national Pub Saving award from CAMRA and Most Improved Rural Pub award from the local branch. Thu, 13 Feb 2020 19:59:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/02/13/top-awards-for-rural-pub-saved-by-locals https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/02/13/top-awards-for-rural-pub-saved-by-locals Eleven English pubs have had their listings upgraded to protect their historic architecture, interiors and facades. They include the Philharmonic in Liverpool (pictured), which is now Grade I, the only pub in the country to have the top listing. The government's listing means the pubs cannot be extended or changed in any way that detracts from their heritage Fri, 07 Feb 2020 11:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/02/07/11-pubs-win-special-government-status https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/02/07/11-pubs-win-special-government-status Peter Martin, brewer at Driftwood Spars in Cornwall, has died aged just 56 after a short illness. His beer Alfie's Revenge was named Champion Winter Beer of Britain in 2012 in the CAMRA competition. Fri, 31 Jan 2020 15:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/01/31/cornwall-mourns-a-champion-brewer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/01/31/cornwall-mourns-a-champion-brewer After years of pub closures there's now a revival as consumers turn their backs on expensive restaurants and choose good value pub grub instead. The Office for National Statistics reports that bigger pubs have benefited most from the growth but smaller pubs are also enjoying a slight revival Fri, 17 Jan 2020 16:59:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/01/17/grub-drives-pubs-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2020/01/17/grub-drives-pubs-revival Batham's and Holden's are two legendary Black Country breweries famous for their dark milds. But bitter and pale beers are now their main products and mild is in deep decline. It was a style once downed in vast quantities by miners and other industrial workers but as heavy industry has disappeared mild has fallen from grace and needs urgent support from lovers of traditional beers. Pictured: Batham's famous Vine pub complete with Shakespeare quotation Mon, 30 Dec 2019 14:03:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/12/30/historic-mild-ales-need-urgent-support https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/12/30/historic-mild-ales-need-urgent-support A tasting of old Bass beers drew a large audience in Burton-on-Trent, keen to samples beers as old as 150 years. The event was organised by Ian Webster, a local historian, with a number of retired Bass brewers.The event proved that old unpasteurised beers can age with distinction as much as fine wine. Thu, 19 Dec 2019 13:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/12/19/old-bass-beers-are-real-corkers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/12/19/old-bass-beers-are-real-corkers The JD Wetherspoon pub group -- founded by Tim Martin (pictured) -- plans to invest £200 million in its pubs and hotels over the next four years, creating 10,000 new jobs. The pubs will be in smaller towns along with such major cities as London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Birmingham, Leeds and Galway Tue, 10 Dec 2019 14:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/12/10/wetherspoon-set-to-open-raft-of-new-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/12/10/wetherspoon-set-to-open-raft-of-new-pubs There's a superb range of beers available for the Christmas period. They include the venerable Old Tom from Robinson's., celebrating 100 years, Chiltern about to celebrate 40 years, the revered Bateman's Rosey Nosey and a remarkable Imperial Pilsner from Camden Town that has been aged in French wine barrels. Tue, 10 Dec 2019 12:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/12/10/hurry-down-the-chimney-for-xmas-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/12/10/hurry-down-the-chimney-for-xmas-beers Robert Neame, better known as Bobby Neame, former director of Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewery, has died aged 85. In a long career with the family brewery, he helped safeguard its independence and introduced Spitfire ale that became the company's biggest-selling beer in cask and bottle Thu, 05 Dec 2019 12:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/12/05/bobby-neame-stalwart-of-kent-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/12/05/bobby-neame-stalwart-of-kent-beer A special IPA, brewed with "wet hops" straight from the harvest, has been brewed to celebrate the 21st anniversary of Borough Market at London Bridge and is on sale in bars and restaurants. Fuggles hops are grown under the roof of the market hall and go straight into the brew as soon as they are harvested. The beer is sold in a sustainable can and is also on draught in the Rake and the Globe at the market. Sun, 01 Dec 2019 13:24:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/12/01/ipa-celebrates-borough-market-s-21-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/12/01/ipa-celebrates-borough-market-s-21-years The Kelham Island Museum in Sheffield is a fascinating view of the city's great industrial past and it was a fine venue for the CAMRA Steel City Beer Festival. Close by, the Kommune collective of restaurants and book shops is home to Hop Hideout, a beer shop run by Jules Gray with a fine range of beers from home and abroad Mon, 25 Nov 2019 13:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/11/25/sheffield-puts-the-steel-into-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/11/25/sheffield-puts-the-steel-into-beer Traquair House in the Scottish Borders has a 300 year-old brewery famous for its House Ale. It has now added a vintage ale dedicated to the memory of Lord and Lady Nithsdale, supporters of the Jacobite cause in the 18th century. Lord Nithsdale was charged with treason and held in the Tower of London but his wife organised a daring escape. Sun, 17 Nov 2019 14:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/17/scots-ale-recalls-daring-jacobite-escape https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/17/scots-ale-recalls-daring-jacobite-escape Worries that Asahi, the new owners of Fuller's West London Brewery, can be put aside for the moment with the arrival of the 2019 edition of Vintage Ale. It has a strong Kiwi influence, with hops and crystal malt sourced from New Zealand's South Island. Fri, 08 Nov 2019 09:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/08/kiwi-influence-for-new-fuller-s-vintage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/08/kiwi-influence-for-new-fuller-s-vintage The old question "What did Porter taste like?" is answered by a collaboration brew between Goose Island of Chicago and Wimbledon Brewery in London.The beer is based on recipes unearthed by historian Ron Pattinson from the old Truman brewery in East London. The name celebrates Obadiah Poundage,a retired London brewer in the 18th century, whose writings gave an insight into how early Porters were brewed Wed, 06 Nov 2019 12:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/11/06/obadiah-poundage-a-true-taste-of-porter https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/11/06/obadiah-poundage-a-true-taste-of-porter CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- has named a short list of four pubs that have reached the final round of the annual Pub of the Year competition. The Swan with Two Necks, Pendleton, Lancs, the George & Dragon, Hudswell, Yorkshire and the Bell, Aldworth, Berks, have all won the competition before but the newcomer is the community-owned Red Lion at Preston, Herts. The winner will be announced in February 2020 Mon, 04 Nov 2019 10:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/04/camra-names-pub-of-the-year-finalists https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/04/camra-names-pub-of-the-year-finalists Robinson's Brewery in Stockport has broken with tradition and for the first time has launched its famous Old Tom barley wine in keg format to complement the versions available in bottle and cask. Joint managing directors William and Oliver Robinson (pictured) believe the chilled craft keg version will win new drinkers to the beer Sun, 03 Nov 2019 11:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/03/you-ll-purr-with-pleasure-over-old-tom https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/11/03/you-ll-purr-with-pleasure-over-old-tom When two publicans in St Albans, Sean Hughes and Christo Tofalli (pictured) launched a campaign against crippling business rates on their pubs, the Boot and the Olde Fighting Cocks, they found that fellow pub owners throughout the country face a similar problem. What began as Save St Albans Pubs has now become a national campaign with publicans lobbying the Treasury for a review of rates Thu, 31 Oct 2019 13:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/10/31/st-albans-publicans-lead-big-rates-fight https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/10/31/st-albans-publicans-lead-big-rates-fight Family brewer Batemans of Wainfleet, Lincolnshire, has re-designed four of its leading ale brands in bottle with distinctive new labels. The beers are Mocha Stout, XXXB, Victory Ale and Combined Harvest. Managing director Stuart Bateman says young drinkers come across craft ales in pubs and now they have the opportunity to sample them in the off-trade as well Fri, 18 Oct 2019 13:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/18/new-look-batemans-has-plenty-of-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/18/new-look-batemans-has-plenty-of-bottle Rover, the awards scheme that encourages pubs to welcome dogs, has launched its 2019 competition to find Britain's most dog-friendly pub. It says allowing dogs into pubs is good for business and will allow more dog owners to go to their locals. Many can't go to pubs as they are not prepared to leave their dogs at home. The awards this year are aimed at millennials, 27 per cent of whom say they would like to take their dogs with them when they go out for a drink Wed, 09 Oct 2019 17:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/09/which-doggy-pubs-take-the-biscuit https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/09/which-doggy-pubs-take-the-biscuit Castle Rock Brewery in Nottingham issued an angry open letter to the BBC when its East Midlands programme linked an item on alcohol abuse with the brewery's Harvest Pale being poured in a pub.Castle Rock, which has been fully supported by CAMRA, says the item gives a false image of pubs and beer, with pubs providing a vital community role. It added that cheap alcohol in supermarkets should be tackled, not pubs Wed, 09 Oct 2019 12:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/09/bbc-flayed-over-beer-and-abuse-story https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/09/bbc-flayed-over-beer-and-abuse-story The Express Tavern on Kew Bridge in London is a now rare outlet for Draught Bass, once Britain's leading premier cask ale but sidelined by its owners AB InBev and brewed under licence by Marston's in Burton-on-Trent. It's worth a visit to the pub for not just the beer but the fascinating history of an old coaching inn that has survived the change from coach to train and still serves a fine range of cask beers Thu, 03 Oct 2019 20:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/03/express-trip-for-rare-drop-of-draught-bass https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/10/03/express-trip-for-rare-drop-of-draught-bass Cask Beer needs some tender loving care, according to the 2019 Cask Report. It says too many pubs are serving cask beer at the wrong temperature and often in poor condition, which deters drinkers from returning to the category. The report calls for cask beer to be "premiumised", which means it should cost more than standard lager and says it's absurd that cask is sold cheaper than craft keg considering the effort and cost of materials that go into its production. Thu, 26 Sep 2019 08:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/26/cask-report-the-fight-back-starts-now https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/26/cask-report-the-fight-back-starts-now Bob Barton has produced a loving guide that lists station bars and refreshment rooms offering good beer, along with preserved steam lines with real ale on board. The book also has a fascinating history of how trains and stations started to offer food and drink when the "iron way" replaced coaches Fri, 20 Sep 2019 12:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2019/09/20/on-the-right-track-for-beer-and-trains https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2019/09/20/on-the-right-track-for-beer-and-trains The 24th St Albans beer festival (25-28 Sept) will feature beer from Worms in Germany, St Albans' twin city. The German beer will complement several hundred ales from all parts of Britain and -- for the first time -- a range of key keg beers as well. From small beginnings 24 years ago, the festival is now one of the biggest in the country and draws drinkers from Hertfordshire and London to the Alban Arena Thu, 19 Sep 2019 16:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/19/twin-city-beer-heads-for-st-albans-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/19/twin-city-beer-heads-for-st-albans-fest The 2020 Good Beer Guide, published 12 September, has a Learn & Discover section that will help readers become beer experts with greater knowledge of how beer is brewed, the ingredients used, how it is served in pubs and the best temperatures to enjoy it. The guide will be backed by beer festivals throughout the country that will have Learn & Discover platforms Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/12/be-an-ale-expert-with-good-beer-guide https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/12/be-an-ale-expert-with-good-beer-guide Bass Pale Ale and Draught Bass, once leaders in their field, have been sidelined by owners AB InBev. The draught beer is brewed under licence by Marston's and what was once the biggest-selling cask ale is now hard to find. The bottled version was once sold world wide and featured in Manet's Bar at the Folies Bergeres (pictured) but is now a filtered beer produced at a keg plant in Lancashire a long way from Burton-on-Trent Thu, 12 Sep 2019 09:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/09/12/beer-giant-s-clumsy-treatment-of-bass-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/09/12/beer-giant-s-clumsy-treatment-of-bass-ale Greene King has re-launched its leading brand IPA following a long look at the beer's recipe. More hops are now added and it's hoped this will give the beer, with its modest 3.6% strength, greater hop character in the glass. The brewery has also revamped its approach to cask beer, installing smaller casks in pubs with a slow throughput to ensure beer is served fresh and cool. Mon, 09 Sep 2019 11:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/09/greene-king-ipa-gets-a-major-makeover https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/09/09/greene-king-ipa-gets-a-major-makeover The Tate galleries have teamed up with Fourpure brewery and Toast Ale to make a beer, Elemental, that has 40% of its grain bill made up of bread. The bread is sourced by Toast from bakeries and sandwich makers who throw away vast amounts of bread -- crusts are never used by sandwich makers, for example. Elemental is a sour beer made with cucumbers and a lactic acid culture. Fri, 23 Aug 2019 14:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/23/tate-bread-beer-to-help-save-the-planet https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/23/tate-bread-beer-to-help-save-the-planet The De Koninck brewery in Antwerp, famous for its rich, bronze-coloured ale, has bowed to public pressure and renamed the beer Bolleke after the elegant glass chalice it's served in. Local drinkers never call the beer De Koninck but always demand "a Bolleke" in the city's bars and restaurants. Wed, 21 Aug 2019 11:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/21/antwerp-brewery-has-a-load-of-bollekes https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/21/antwerp-brewery-has-a-load-of-bollekes Greene King, one of Britain's oldest breweries dating from 1799, has been sold for £2.7 billion to a Hong Kong property developer called CK Asset Holdings.The new owner has no roots in brewing or pubs and there are fears the tied estate of 2,700 could be drastically reduced, throwing a question mark over the future of brewing at Bury St Edmunds. Tue, 20 Aug 2019 12:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/08/20/greene-king-another-one-bites-the-dust https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/08/20/greene-king-another-one-bites-the-dust Sambrooks Brewery in Battersea plans to relocate in 2020 to the Ram Quarter in Wandsworth, South-east London -- the site of the historic Young's brewery that closed in 2006. Duncan Sambrook opened his brewery in 2008 to fill the void left by Young's and will use the old buildings for a brewery, tap room and museum. Pictured, an artist's impression of the Ram Quarter with the brewery chimney in the background Fri, 09 Aug 2019 16:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/08/09/restoring-brewing-to-historic-young-s-site https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/08/09/restoring-brewing-to-historic-young-s-site Surrey Hills Brewery in Dorking has walked away with the coveted title of Supreme Champion Beer of Britain at the Great British Beer Festival staged by CAMRA at London Olympia. The festival runs until Saturday. The champion beer event is the culmination of many rounds of tastings and judging in different styles and categories. Photo shows Simon Jones (left) and Ross Hunter of Surrey Hills with their award Tue, 06 Aug 2019 22:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/06/surrey-hills-shere-drop-is-champion-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/06/surrey-hills-shere-drop-is-champion-beer Wild Beer in Somerset has used open vats or coolships first used to make cheese curds to launch Coolship 2019, a spontaneously fermented beer blended with beer aged in French wine casks. The brewers say they are not attempting to create a Belgian Lambic type beer as they have sufficient of their own bugs for fermentation Sun, 04 Aug 2019 09:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/04/gorge-yourself-on-cheddar-wild-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/08/04/gorge-yourself-on-cheddar-wild-beer For the first time in its 42 years, the Great British Beer Festival will offer live keg beers alongside traditional cask ales. The festival at London Olympia, 6-10 August, will have keykeg beers from Tiny Rebel, Siren Craft and Wild Beer while Harveys of Sussex will offer a chance to taste its beer in both cask and keg formats. The organisers say they are reaching out to a wider audience that wants to drink good beer in different formats Mon, 22 Jul 2019 14:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/07/22/camra-s-big-ale-fest-rings-the-changes-with-beer-for-all-in-both-casks-and-kegs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/07/22/camra-s-big-ale-fest-rings-the-changes-with-beer-for-all-in-both-casks-and-kegs A £70 million investment at Budweiser Budvar in the Czech Republic will enable the state-owned brewery to boost annual production to 2 million hectolitres.The brewery exports to 80 countries, with Germany its main customer and enjoying healthy sales in the UK. It has launched a new beer, Budvar 33, and its chief executive Petr Dvorak thinks most of the trademark battles with AB InBev are now in the past. Pictured, the copper brewhouse Mon, 15 Jul 2019 07:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/07/15/70m-expansion-boost-for-czech-budvar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/07/15/70m-expansion-boost-for-czech-budvar Salcombe Brewery in Devon has a mission to produce not only good beers but also to put something back into the community and help the environment. Seahorse donates to the Seahorse Trust that supports the endangered species while LIfesaver makes a contribution to the local lifeboat station Tue, 09 Jul 2019 12:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/07/09/seaside-brewery-is-pushing-the-boat-out https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/07/09/seaside-brewery-is-pushing-the-boat-out A cask vs keg challenge will be the high-point of this year's Great British Beer Festival (6-10 August) at London Olympia. Miles Jenner, head brewer at Harvey's of Lewes in Sussex, will lead a tasting of his Wharfe IPA in keg and cask versions. He will also have samples of his Tin Lizzie barley wine in keg format for the first time. The new Discovery Zone at the festival will introduce visitors to the brewing experience with experts from malt and hop companies on hand, along with brewers from Adnams,Siren and Wild Beer among others Mon, 08 Jul 2019 12:37:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/07/08/cask-vs-keg-challenge-at-top-beer-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/07/08/cask-vs-keg-challenge-at-top-beer-fest The National Brewery Heritage Trust needs urgent financial help to save a unique collection of documents and artefacts detailing the history of British brewing. The aim is to produce an online catalogue. A crowdfunding campaign is running to raise money and will close of 23 July. Fri, 05 Jul 2019 13:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/07/05/help-preserve-beer-s-heritage-archive https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/07/05/help-preserve-beer-s-heritage-archive Low alcohol and no alcohol beers -- dubbed NABLABs -- used to taste like cold Horlicks. Such horrors as Kaliber were advertised by Billy Connolly, who is now on the wagon! But a new range of NABLABS offer the taste of malt and hops and can be genuinely enjoyable. Adnams removes the alcohol from Ghost Ship by reverse osmosis while the Small Beer Brewery uses less grain to obtain the level of alcohol required. Sat, 29 Jun 2019 09:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/06/29/flavour-rules-in-new-age-low-alcohol-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/06/29/flavour-rules-in-new-age-low-alcohol-beer The historic Union fermenting vessels (pictured) at Marston's brewery in Burton-on-Trent have been called into play to create an IPA that was planned in the nano DE14 plant used to trial new brews. No 1 Horninglow IPA will be on sale in Waitrose and, along with other beers in the series, is bottle-conditioned and will age for several years. Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/06/18/burton-s-historic-unions-create-new-ipa https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/06/18/burton-s-historic-unions-create-new-ipa Monks at Westvleteren, the smallest and most remote of Belgium's Trappist breweries, have responded to world-wide demand for their acclaimed bottle-conditioned beers by making them available by ordering online. Previously, beer lovers could only buy the beers by phoning the abbey when a new batch of beer was ready -- and the lines were often busy for many hours. Fri, 14 Jun 2019 15:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/06/14/ssh-trappist-monks-sell-their-beer-online https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/06/14/ssh-trappist-monks-sell-their-beer-online The title of Britain's Oldest Pub is hotly contested but research shows that the most visited of the breed is the Clachan in Scotland (pictured), closely followed by the Skirrid Inn in Wales. Other popular watering holes include Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham and Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/06/14/a-pint-of-history-in-britain-s-oldest-inns https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/06/14/a-pint-of-history-in-britain-s-oldest-inns A pint of bitter is Britain's favourite style of ale yet a growing number of major brewers are re-branding both their bitters and pale ales as "amber". The trend started with Marston's Pedigree, which is a classic Burton pale ale, using no darker malts in its recipe, but is now labelled "amber". This is making a mockery of centuries of brewing tradition and traducing a beer style famous throughout the world Wed, 29 May 2019 10:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/05/29/why-i-m-seeing-red-over-amber-bitter https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/05/29/why-i-m-seeing-red-over-amber-bitter Norwich and Rouen celebrated 60 years of twinning by bringing a collaboration beer, Amitie (Friendship) for the 2019 City of Ale. The beer was brewed by Northmaen in Normandy and Norfolk Brewhouse. The beer had a stormy passage, with the boat rescued by a RNLI lifeboat off Harwich. But it arrived on a flotilla of smaller vessels up the River Yare on time (pictured) for the launch of City of Ale Mon, 27 May 2019 17:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/27/viking-ale-has-stormy-passage-to-norwich https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/27/viking-ale-has-stormy-passage-to-norwich Leuven is called the City of Beer. The Belgian city, half an hour from Brussels, has two contrasting breweries: Domus brewpub and Stella Artois. The 1920s Art Deco Stella brewery (pictured) is magnificent while tours will take visitors to a number of local breweries, including De Kroon and Hof Ten Dormaal. The Old Market area alone has 36 bars -- sufficient to slake the deepest thirsts. Fri, 17 May 2019 13:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/05/17/beer-and-bars-bloom-in-belgian-beer-city https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/05/17/beer-and-bars-bloom-in-belgian-beer-city Geary's Pale Ale came from the first micro-brewery in New England in the 1980s and helped kick start the American beer revolution. The beer was rhe result of founder David Geary touring breweries in England and Scotland and discovering a passion for pale ale. When sales of the beer fell away in the second decade of the new century, Geary looked for new owners who bought the brewery and have revived it, complete with a taproom in Portland, Maine Wed, 15 May 2019 17:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/15/old-and-new-england-forged-beer-legend https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/15/old-and-new-england-forged-beer-legend West Berkshire Brewery has invested £9 million in re-branding its ales and lagers with a 12 times expansion of production and the installation of state-of-the-art bottling and canning lines. It is bucking the trend with a 61 per cent increase in sales of its main cask beer Good Old Boy. Collaboration beers are planned while a further £1 million has been invested in environmentally sustainable production with a reed bed drainage system and a natural habitat for wildlife Tue, 14 May 2019 10:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/14/west-berks-bucks-trend-with-beer-boost https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/14/west-berks-bucks-trend-with-beer-boost The award-winning Harp pub at Charing Cross in London is promoting Mild Ale during May -- and the beers include an exclusive beer, Into the Mild, brewed by Dark Star in Sussex. There will be a rolling programme of milds at the pub during May but the popularity of the style means that Dark Star will now have a permanent pump for mild. Thu, 09 May 2019 09:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/09/mild-is-top-of-the-hops-at-harp-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/05/09/mild-is-top-of-the-hops-at-harp-pub Four Czechs are forcing British drinkers to rethink their attitude to lager. In place of thin, fizzy and bland beers, Zdenek Kudr, Petr Skocek and their colleagues at Bohem Brewery are fashioning beers that are properly aged, use only the finest ingredients and are served in their Taproom using the approved "Czech pour" (pictured) that leaves flavour, not gas, in the glass Tue, 30 Apr 2019 18:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/04/30/czech-mates-are-a-fine-team-in-tottenham https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/04/30/czech-mates-are-a-fine-team-in-tottenham Carlsberg has created media interest in its new Danish Pilsner and its admission that it may not brew the best lager in the world. It has also unleashed criticism from drinkers that the beer lacks flavour and character. But it has also sparked a debate over what constitutes proper lager beer and whether it can be brewed as quickly as ale or whether long maturation is still best. Fri, 19 Apr 2019 18:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/04/19/carlsberg-and-the-meaning-of-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/04/19/carlsberg-and-the-meaning-of-lager Nik Antona (pictured left) and Tom Stainer, the new chairman-elect and chief executive of CAMRA, have a mission to broaden the base of the campaign and win younger drinkers. They stress that many beer festivals now offer a wider choice of beers and the campaign is about more than handpumps and casks. To boost the fortunes of real ale, they will step up efforts to save pubs as vital hubs of communities offering a range of great beer. Sun, 31 Mar 2019 18:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/03/31/new-look-camra-out-to-broaden-base https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/03/31/new-look-camra-out-to-broaden-base A cash injection of £188,000 will go from the government to boost rural pubs if they expand their services to include grocery shops, post offices and libraries. The announcement was made by Pubs Minister Jake Berry, who stressed the vital role played by rural pubs that offer more than just a drink but bring communities together. The funds will be administered by Pub is the Hub, the organisation set up by Prince Charles Wed, 27 Mar 2019 15:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/27/cash-help-for-rural-pubs-if-they-expand https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/27/cash-help-for-rural-pubs-if-they-expand Cask beer had a tough time in 2018 but there are signs of a revival. Shepherd Neame has launched Cask Club with a series of new beers, including collaborations with the likes of Sam Adams in the U.S. BrewDog and Cloudwater are planning to brew some cask beers while Thornbridge says sales of its real ales are doing exceptionally well. Multi-prize-winning Timothy Taylor Landlord has become a cult beer among young drinkers Tue, 26 Mar 2019 11:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/03/26/cask-beer-is-climbing-out-of-the-grave https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/03/26/cask-beer-is-climbing-out-of-the-grave Greene King has added to its award-winning Heritage Ales series with a new pale ale brewed with the Ernest hop variety. Ernest was developed in the 1920s but was never commercially grown as brewers disliked its citrus flavours. Greene King head brewer Ross O'Hara says if it had been used in brewing in the 1920s the British would have been drinking New World-style ales back then Sun, 17 Mar 2019 12:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/17/greene-king-and-the-importance-of-brewing-with-ernest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/17/greene-king-and-the-importance-of-brewing-with-ernest Gloucester and Swannay breweries walked away with Gold awards for cask and keg beers in the annual championship at Beer X, staged by SIBA, the Society of Independent Brewers in Liverpool. Wibblers Brewery won Gold in the packaged sector. The victors are seen with Master of Ceremonies Nigel Barden, far right. Sun, 17 Mar 2019 09:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/17/going-for-gold-in-siba-championship https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/17/going-for-gold-in-siba-championship Gary Murphy runs the historic, listed Old Mitre Inne in Barnet, North-west London and is locked in a long-running battle with the Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) as a result of his plan to go free of tie with the pub's owner, Greene King. He has spent thousands of pounds of his own money on legal costs and has taken to crowd funding to finance a court hearing with the PCA. Mon, 11 Mar 2019 12:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/03/11/david-goliath-battle-over-historic-inn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/03/11/david-goliath-battle-over-historic-inn Greene King has appointed 28 year-old Ross O'Hara as head brewer at its Suffolk brewery. Ross is a graduate of Heriot Watt School of Brewing & Distilling in Edinburgh and has also qualified as a Master Brewer. He is only the 17th head brewer in Greene King's 220-year history Fri, 08 Mar 2019 10:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/08/youth-takes-helm-at-greene-king-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/03/08/youth-takes-helm-at-greene-king-brewery Ian Clayton, broadcaster and raconteur, has a great love of pubs and good beer. He has travelled widely in his search for beer and pubs, along with sport and music. He has written a book rich in anecdotes of drinking, singing and story-telling along with a pint or three along the way. No pub-and-beer lover should miss it. Tue, 05 Mar 2019 15:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2019/03/05/ian-clayton-memoirs-of-a-pub-going-man https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2019/03/05/ian-clayton-memoirs-of-a-pub-going-man The Wonston Arms in Hampshire, that was derelict and closed four years ago, has won the prestigious title of National Pub of the Year in the annual competition staged by CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale. Landlord Matt Todd not only serves a good range of local cask ales but also runs a series of events that involve the local community and raise funds for charities Thu, 28 Feb 2019 11:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/28/rescued-pub-now-britain-s-top-ale-house https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/28/rescued-pub-now-britain-s-top-ale-house Britain's oldest brewery, Shepherd Neame in Faversham, is to launch a new range of real ales with Cask Club that will aim to improve the style's image among younger drinkers.There will be a new beer every month, including collaborative brews with the likes of Sam Adnams of Boston in the United States. Cask Club will run a Passport Scheme with participating pubs that will enable drinkers to win free T-shirts Tue, 26 Feb 2019 13:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/26/shepherd-neame-to-launch-new-cask-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/26/shepherd-neame-to-launch-new-cask-ales S troud Brewery, launched by Greg Pilley (pictured) in 2006, has moved to new premises where Greg and his team produce a range of organic beers to meet his passion for aiding the environment.The new site includes a tap room and bar where local people can enjoy the beers along with pizzas cooked in an oven imported from Naples. At present Stroud has a 20-barrel kit but Greg plans to expand to 40 barrels as demand grows Mon, 25 Feb 2019 08:43:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/25/stroud-going-green-in-the-cotswolds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/25/stroud-going-green-in-the-cotswolds Alex Brodie has stepped down as the boss of Hawkshead Brewery in the Lake District but he's being kept on as beer taster in chief to keep his eye -- and his tastebuds -- on his favourite brews. Alex trained as a journalist and travelled widely first in Britain and then around the world as a BBC correspondent. But his love of good beer drove him to open a small brewery in Hawkshead that has grown rapidly into a major Cumbrian business Mon, 18 Feb 2019 17:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/18/alex-brodie-retiring-but-not-his-tastebuds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/18/alex-brodie-retiring-but-not-his-tastebuds Twenty years ago sales of bottled beer were falling off the cliff. But there's been a spirited revival and one section of the bottled sector that's showing special growth is bottle-conditioned beers. This year, Marston's will stage a "live beer" week along with other breweries. Among live beers on sale, the Gold edition of Thomas Hardy's Ale stands out from the crowd as it marks 50 years since it was first brewed for a literary festival in Hardy's home town of Dorchester Mon, 18 Feb 2019 12:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/18/how-live-beers-came-back-from-the-dead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/18/how-live-beers-came-back-from-the-dead Harry is the landlord of the Dock & Duck in rural southern England. He has a lease with Enterprise Inns, the country's biggest pub company, now known as Ei Group. Harry is not his real name as he wants to renew his lease but he is keen to show how difficult it is to run pubs when they are tied to their landlords for beer. Harry says he pays some £60,000 a year more than if he bought his beer on the open market. Thu, 14 Feb 2019 13:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/14/giant-pubco-has-landlord-over-a-barrel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/02/14/giant-pubco-has-landlord-over-a-barrel BrewDog has launched a range of 10 sour beers from its new plant, Overworks, near Aberdeen, drawing on the experience of Belgian lambic and gueuze beers made by spontaneous fermentation -- but with a BrewDog twist. The beer use a variety of fruits for additional flavour and will be followed by several more "wild" beers during 2019. The beers will go on sale in all BrewDog bars in Britain and also in specialist beer shops Fri, 08 Feb 2019 16:03:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/08/brewdog-goes-wild-over-sour-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/08/brewdog-goes-wild-over-sour-beer The Co-Op group is helping to raise awareness of food waste by stocking Toast beer in all its 57 stores in London. Toast beer is made with one third of the mash made up of surplus bread. Both the Co-Op and the brewery are keen to make consumers more aware of the need to re-cycle wasted bread and other food and both contribute a share of the profits to charities Mon, 04 Feb 2019 16:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/04/co-op-boost-for-bread-saving-toast-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/04/co-op-boost-for-bread-saving-toast-beer A strong imperial stout, brewed by Bass in the 19th century for export to Russia, has been revived at the Heritage Brewery in Burton. P2 Stout was one of a range of stouts brewed by Bass for export to Czarist Russia. Bass phased the beer out in the 1960s but it's been revived by brewers Steve Wellington and Caroline Horrabin. A draught version will be available at the Derby Winter Beer Festival in late February Fri, 01 Feb 2019 15:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/01/burton-brewer-revives-czar-s-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/02/01/burton-brewer-revives-czar-s-stout Road works in Cambridgeshire have thrown up the remains of a brewery from the Iron Age, some 400 years BC. The work on the A14 road near Huntingdon allowed archeo-botanists to analyse residues in brewing pots that indicate people were making beer along with porridge and bread, all using grain from East Anglia. The discovery follows earlier work on beer-making in the Old World of Egypt and Bablyon: pictured is a depiction of brewing in Ancient Egypt Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/31/iron-age-brewery-found-in-east-anglia https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/31/iron-age-brewery-found-in-east-anglia The sale for £250 million of Fuller's brewery and brands to Asahi of Japan brings to an end the long history of family brewing in London. Fuller's sold up as a result of falling profits from brewing, with cask sales in particular down by 10 per cent, with far more money to be made from pub retailing. The worry now is that the Japanese giant will reduce the beer range is order to turn London Pride into an "international brand". Sun, 27 Jan 2019 12:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/01/27/fuller-s-end-of-family-brewing-in-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2019/01/27/fuller-s-end-of-family-brewing-in-london Thornbridge Brewery is pinning its faith in cask ale and the Derbyshire company is producing more of the style than at any time in its history. Jaipur IPA is its flagship ale but it's producing a range of innovative beers, including porters that have proved highly popular. It's beers sold so well at last August's Great British Beer Festival that a second delivery was necessary Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/24/jaipur-leads-the-cavalry-charge-for-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/24/jaipur-leads-the-cavalry-charge-for-cask Jaega Wise has sprung to fame in a few years with Wild Card Brewery in East London. She and her fellow directors William Harris and Andrew Birkby are from Nottingham and moved from home brewing to full scale production in 2012. They have won awards for their beers and Jaega was named Brewer of the Year in December by the British Guild of Beer Writers. She's also a regional director for the Society of Independent Brewers and finds time to sing in a group called Hell and Hope Mon, 21 Jan 2019 09:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/01/21/jaega-wild-over-beer-in-walthamstow https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2019/01/21/jaega-wild-over-beer-in-walthamstow As the clamour for porter and stout grows, two breweries in the West Country have launched new dark beers. Moor Beer in Bristol has worked in collaboration with La Quince brewery in Madrid to produce a series of barrel-aged stouts, some in whisky and rum casks. The photo shows Justin Hawke of Moor (second from left) with the La Quince brewers. And Salcombe brewery in Devon has produced a complex Porter Thu, 17 Jan 2019 16:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/17/west-country-weighs-in-with-new-stouts https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/17/west-country-weighs-in-with-new-stouts Martin Warren, prize-winning owner of Poppyland Brewery in Cromer, has handed over ownership of the brewery to Dave Cornell. Dave is moving to the Norfolk seaside town to continue to brew the eclectic range of beers, some using foraged plants and herbs, and will build on the portfolio. Dave is seen on the left with Martin in the brewhouse Tue, 08 Jan 2019 09:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/08/poppyland-safe-in-new-brewing-hands https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/08/poppyland-safe-in-new-brewing-hands Black Sheep and Hogs Back are two breweries backing the Tryanuary campaign that encourages beer lovers to visit their local pubs during January. Black Sheep has launched Resolution, an amber beer that's the first of its special ales for 2019 while Hogs Back is promoting its TEA bitter during the month. Pictured: Rob and Jo Theakston at Black Sheep with pints of Resolution Mon, 07 Jan 2019 15:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/07/beers-boost-tryanuary-pubs-campaign https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/07/beers-boost-tryanuary-pubs-campaign Belhaven in Dunbar is Scotland's oldest brewery and it will mark its 300th anniversary in 2019 with a series of events at the brewery, including the opening of a new visitor centre. It kicks off the year with a special new ale,1719, in bottle and on draught, to show both the ancient and modern side of the brewery Fri, 04 Jan 2019 14:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/04/new-ale-celebrates-belhaven-s-300th https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2019/01/04/new-ale-celebrates-belhaven-s-300th After years of growth in the pale ale and IPA sector, dark beer is making a comeback. Tesco stores sold out of stout during the Christmas period as consumers relish the rich flavours of beers made with roasted and caramel malts. There are some fine porters and stouts available but you will need to rush to get a bottle of the annual Goose Island Bourbon County Stout before it sells out Mon, 31 Dec 2018 07:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/12/31/there-s-dark-at-the-end-of-the-beer-tunnel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/12/31/there-s-dark-at-the-end-of-the-beer-tunnel Independent Yorkshire family brewer Black Sheep of Masham has bought York Brewery and its pubs, saving 40 jobs. York Brewery and its owner, Mitchells of Lancaster, went into administration earlier this month but now York will continue to brew and supply its pubs. Pictured are Rob Theakston and Andy Slee of Black Sheep, who have brought the brewery back into profit and are now pursuing a new retailing strategy Fri, 21 Dec 2018 14:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/12/21/black-sheep-saves-york-brewery-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/12/21/black-sheep-saves-york-brewery-pubs As Christmas hovers on the horizon there is a plentiful supply of rich and warming beers to help celebrate the holiday. They come in all shapes and sizes and from Belgium as well as this country. So start stocking up now! Fri, 14 Dec 2018 09:18:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/12/14/it-s-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-beermas https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/12/14/it-s-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-beermas Jeffrey John Bell is one of the best-known pub landlords in the country who built his reputation with two London pubs, the Gunmakers and the Finborough Arms. But now he's running the ancient Ypres Castle Inn in Rye on the Romney Marsh in Sussex where he offers a range of beers from local breweries, including Three Legs on a local farm. Fri, 07 Dec 2018 17:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/12/07/top-landlord-offers-a-rye-look-at-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/12/07/top-landlord-offers-a-rye-look-at-beer Britain has the biggest number of breweries in Europe but producers are faced by a shocking tax burden. Research shows that while the UK is second only to Germany where beer production is concerned, the British industry is held back from growth by duty levels 12 times higher than in Germany. The UK pays almost 40 per cent of all beer duty in the EU, with 54p of a pint going in tax, compared to just 5p in Germany. Thu, 06 Dec 2018 11:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/12/06/uk-brewers-have-biggest-eu-tax-burden https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/12/06/uk-brewers-have-biggest-eu-tax-burden Most beers are meant for immediate consumption but there are some strong versions that should be treated with the same respect as vintage wine and which will improve with age. Two such recent additions are the latest Thomas Hardy's Ale and Fuller's Vintage Ale. It's claimed the Thomas Hardy's will improve over 25 years while samplings show the Fuller's beer with deepen its complexities if laid down for a few years Wed, 05 Dec 2018 09:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/12/05/beers-that-grow-old-gracefully https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/12/05/beers-that-grow-old-gracefully A group of four beer lovers called The Completists take on the onerous task every year of visiting every pub listed in the Good Beer Guide.They visited St Albans, a small city with 50 pubs, and joined Roger Protz on a selection of some of the pubs in the 2019 guide. When news leaked out via social media, a few more drinkers came along for a crawl of pubs with not only good beer but also some fascinating history Tue, 27 Nov 2018 14:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/11/27/st-albans-great-heritage-pub-crawl https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/11/27/st-albans-great-heritage-pub-crawl The small market town of Waltham Abbey in Essex once claimed, with 27 inns, to have the most pubs in Europe. The number has declined to 10 but they include the ancient Welsh Harp, with links to the abbey, the 17th century Sun, and the multi-award-winning Woodbine on the edge of Epping Forest that has won 27 awards from CAMRA for beer and cider and now plans its own brewery Mon, 19 Nov 2018 09:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/11/19/small-essex-town-big-pub-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/11/19/small-essex-town-big-pub-heritage Paul Theakston, seen with is sons Jo and Rob, left the family brewery in Masham in the Yorkshire Dales when it was taken over by Scottish & Newcastle. He nursed his wounds for a few years then opened Black Sheep in a former maltings just yards from the rival brewery. He devised a new course for his brewery: he owned no pubs and relied on the free trade. It's been a rocky road but the brewery is flourishing. Paul has now handed over the reins to his sons and can reflect on his tumultuous brewing story Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/11/09/baa-gum--the-black-sheep-beer-saga https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/11/09/baa-gum--the-black-sheep-beer-saga John Keeling has just retired as head brewer at Fuller's but he has a new mission in life -- to boost the fortune's of cask beer. He says Britain's unique contribution to beer is seeing sales fall by 10% a year. His recommendations include greater quality control, with no cask served longer than three days, and a special differential rate of duty when Britain leave the European Union Tue, 30 Oct 2018 08:53:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/30/master-brewer-s-mission-to-boost-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/30/master-brewer-s-mission-to-boost-cask Steel City may have lost its industry but Sheffield still has a large number of magnificent pubs, many of them dating from the late 18th and 19th centuries when they were built to refresh an army of thirsty steel workers. In spite of the best efforts of big brewers and pub companies to wreck Sheffield's pub heritage, many outlets have been restored to their former glory and their stories are told in Sheffield's Real Heritage Pubs Sun, 28 Oct 2018 12:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2018/10/28/book-captures-glory-of-sheffield-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2018/10/28/book-captures-glory-of-sheffield-pubs Seen years after Norwich set the ball rolling with City of Ale, other cities across the UK gathered in Norwich to create a forum that will see more and more beer and pub events in the years ahead. The photo shows the delegates at the forum with key note speakers including Pete Brown, Roger Protz, Stefan Gurney from BID, David Wilson from the British Beer & Pub Association and Andrew Daines from Visit Flanders. Roger Protz is holding the sign with Dawn Leeder and Phil Cutter from Norwich with Pete Brown next to Phil. Report by Frances Brace Thu, 25 Oct 2018 15:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/10/25/cities-unite-to-boost-britain-s-beer-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/10/25/cities-unite-to-boost-britain-s-beer-pubs Greece has a vast number of islands and several of them are now home to new craft breweries. They include the Nissos Brewery that concentrates on organic lagers and Mikonu on Mykonos, where founders Angelos Ferous and Janos Bako (pictured) learned the brewing skills at BrewDog in Scotland. Other islands with flourishing breweries include Crete and Santorini Tue, 23 Oct 2018 12:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/23/greek-islands-harbour-fine-craft-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/23/greek-islands-harbour-fine-craft-beers Sofoklis Panagiotu founded Septem Brewery at the height of the Greek financial crisis but he has survived and now runs the biggest craft brewery in the country. He produces both draught and bottled beers and exports to 13 countries. He grows his own hops and used them to make a wet hop beer this autumn with Cascade and Chinook varieties. There are now some 45 small craft breweries in Greece but they face stiff competition from Heineken and Carlsberg who account for around 85% of beer sales Fri, 19 Oct 2018 09:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/19/meet-sofoklis-greek-beer-s-philosopher https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/19/meet-sofoklis-greek-beer-s-philosopher Now in its 37th year, the Great American Beer Festival goes from strength to strength, attracting in September 8,500 beers from 2,404 breweries and drawing crowds of 62,000. As well as mainstream styles such as lager and IPA, American brewers are "pushing the envelope" with sours, saisons, barrel-aged and wine-influenced beers. This special report is from Lotte Peplow Fri, 05 Oct 2018 11:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/10/05/beer-hits-new-heights-at-american-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/10/05/beer-hits-new-heights-at-american-fest New England IPA is yet another variant of a style that shows no signs of slowing down world wide. Versions from the East Coast of the US are less aggressively hopped than beers from the West Coast that can have as much as 100 units of bitterness. And it was the IPA from the Harpoon Brewery in Boston that helped kick-start the IPA revolution in the 1990s. NEIPAs as they are known are now being brewed with enthusiasm as far away as Australia Tue, 02 Oct 2018 08:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/02/east-west-ipa-goes-on-travelling https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/10/02/east-west-ipa-goes-on-travelling Sales of cask beer have fallen faster than the overall beer market, according to the latest Cask Report. Sales are down by 6.8 per cent while the overall beer market has declined by 1.6 per cent. But while amber beers have shown the biggest fall, golden ales in the cask sector have seen substantial growth and a big majority of publicans say cask beer is vital to the business. Thu, 27 Sep 2018 12:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/27/cask-sales-fall-but-still-vital-to-pub-trade https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/27/cask-sales-fall-but-still-vital-to-pub-trade Hannah Rhodes is celebrating her fifth anniversary as a brewer by launching her Hiver honey beers in cans to augment the keg and bottle versions. She uses fresh, unpasteurised honey as part of the fermenting and conditioning process, not just as an add-on flavouring. 10% of her profits go to backing charities that support bees as they forage for honey. All her malts and hops come from England Mon, 24 Sep 2018 08:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/24/drinkers-swarm-for-hannah-s-honey-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/24/drinkers-swarm-for-hannah-s-honey-beer After years of dramatic growth, the craft beer sector has slowed in the US but is growing at a fast pace in Europe, according to a report by leading research organisation Mintel. Traditional beer styles are being challenged by innovative new ones as consumers look for new tastes and flavours. The downside of craft beer's success, says Mintel, is that global brewers are now entering the sector and are buying independent producers. Pictured: Stone Brewing of California now has a second brewery in Berlin Thu, 20 Sep 2018 14:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/20/europe-now-leads-craft-beer-revolution https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/20/europe-now-leads-craft-beer-revolution London's oldest family brewer, Fuller's of Chiswick, has added a pilot brewery as part of its visitor centre. It will enable the brewing team to develop small-run new brews with exciting and unusual flavours. Successful beers will then be scaled up for production in the main brewery. Pictured left are Fuller's brewers with members of Gravity Systems that installed the new plant. Wed, 19 Sep 2018 14:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/19/fuller-s-pilot-plant-to-fashion-new-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/19/fuller-s-pilot-plant-to-fashion-new-beers The new edition of CAMRA's Good Beer Guide praises breweries that are "putting something back" by reducing carbon footprints and producing more gluten-free, vegan-friendly and low alcohol beers. The guide also lists breweries that aid less fortunate people,such as those with learning difficulties and others serving prison sentences. Other breweries aid the environment by recycling used malt and hops and even lining brewing vessels with sheep wool. Thu, 13 Sep 2018 10:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/13/beer-guide-hails-socially-aware-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/13/beer-guide-hails-socially-aware-brewers For the first time in years, the craft beer sector in the United States is losing growth as a result of the emergence of two giant brewing groups, AB InBev and Molson Coors. Jim Koch (pictured) says the domination of "Big Beer" poses a threat to the craft movement while the Brewers Association lays the blame for the decline on the aggressive price cutting of the giants and success of Bud Light, which has led to some craft brewers producing light lagers Mon, 10 Sep 2018 08:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/10/big-beer-threat-to-us-craft-revolution https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/09/10/big-beer-threat-to-us-craft-revolution The Pub Code Adjudicator Paul Newby is tackling the giant companies over the barriers they have created to stop publicans getting a better deal on rents and beer choice. The pub code was brought in in 2016 to ensure a better deal for landlords, including the right to go free of tie with a Market Rent Only option. But few landlords have won the right to MRO and Newby is concerned by the high number of pub seizures and closures Fri, 31 Aug 2018 10:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/31/newby-pubcos-thwarting-tenants-rights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/31/newby-pubcos-thwarting-tenants-rights So much attention is paid to hops these days that many drinkers ignore the vital role played by barley and other grains in making beer. Hops are the salt and pepper of beer-making but it needs malt, with its essential sugars, that enables beer to be made and to balance the bitterness of hops with rich biscuit notes with chocolate and fruit from darker grain Thu, 30 Aug 2018 12:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/08/30/great-beer-it-s-a-grainy-image https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/08/30/great-beer-it-s-a-grainy-image In 1978, when Roger Protz published his first book on beer, Pulling a Fast One, the industry was dominated by the Big Six national brewers who closed many smaller breweries and charged high prices for their ales and lagers. 40 years later, global brewers have replaced the nationals and their beers are still shockingly over-priced Fri, 24 Aug 2018 11:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/08/24/40-years-on-big-beer-still-rules-the-roost-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/08/24/40-years-on-big-beer-still-rules-the-roost-1 Hogs Back brewery near Farnham in Surrey will more than double its production of hops when it moves to a new 8-acre site in 2019. The hops will grow alongside the brewery at Manor Farm and the range will include Farnham White Bine, English Cascade and Pioneer. White Bine was the forerunner of Goldings but disappeared until Hogs Back managing director Rupert Thompson revived the variety in 2014. Wed, 15 Aug 2018 12:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/15/hogs-back-heads-for-new-hop-heights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/15/hogs-back-heads-for-new-hop-heights Siren Craft Brew from Berkshire stole the show on the opening day of the 2018 Great British Beer Festival by winning Champion Beer of Britain with its Broken Dream Breakfast Stout. The Siren team are shown with their cup, with founder Darron Anley centre. The Silver award went to Green Jack brewery for Ripper barley wine and Bronze was won by Mordue Brewery for its Workie Ticket Best Bitter Wed, 08 Aug 2018 08:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/08/champion-stout-good-way-to-start-the-day https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/08/champion-stout-good-way-to-start-the-day A YouGov poll commissioned by CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, finds that 56 per cent of British beer drinkers say the price of a pint is driving them away from pubs and to more affordable outlets such as supermarkets. CAMRA is calling on the government to scrap plans to increase beer duty in the autumn -- which will put 2p on the price of a pint -- and to ease the burden of business rates on pubs. Mon, 06 Aug 2018 09:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/06/brits-are-being-priced-out-of-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/08/06/brits-are-being-priced-out-of-pubs Brakspear Special, a much-loved traditional ale, disappeared when the Henley brewery closed and production moved to Wychwood in Witney, where just Brakspear Bitter and Oxford Gold are brewed. But now the independent Brakspear pub company has brought Special back, brewing it on a small plant in its Bull pub in Henley. Sun, 22 Jul 2018 17:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/07/22/brakspear-special-back-where-it-belongs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/07/22/brakspear-special-back-where-it-belongs Hook Norton Brewery is a magical place centred on a classic Victorian tower brewery. It has a steam engine, oak-lined brewing vessels and horse-drawn drays. But it's not living in the past. Managing director James Clarke has dramatically increased the range of beers and has turned the site into a major tourist attraction with a visitor centre, restaurant and a pilot brewery where beer lovers can make their own brews. Thu, 19 Jul 2018 07:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/19/historic-hooky-is-set-for-the-future https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/19/historic-hooky-is-set-for-the-future Delegates attending the annual conference of More Than a Pub, staged by the Plunkett Foundation, heard of campaigns throughout the country to save cherished local pubs as a result of dedicated work by action groups. The centrepiece of the conference was a case study of the Gardeners Arms in Sheffield (pictured) that was saved from closure and is now acting as a vital community hub and is also the tap house for the Sheffield Brewery Tue, 17 Jul 2018 12:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/17/big-drive-to-save-embattled-locals https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/17/big-drive-to-save-embattled-locals East Lancs Railway is a restored steam line brought back from the dead following the Beeching Axe. It has two superb bars at Rawtenstall and Bury stations serving a fine range of beers from local breweries plus top quality true lagers. Visitors will also find saison, sour and even a Bavarian-style Dampfbier. When the line reopened in the 1980s it received a visit from the Flying Scotsman (pictured) Sun, 08 Jul 2018 13:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/08/full-steam-ahead-to-two-great-rail-bars https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/08/full-steam-ahead-to-two-great-rail-bars Shepherd Neame may be Britain's oldest brewery, dating from 1698, but it's not resting on its history. Chief executive Jonathan Neame says the future for beer is about flavour and quality and he responds to modern consumer demands with beers with good hop aroma whether in cask, keg or bottle. The brewery is also expanding its pub estate with new outlets planned for London Tue, 03 Jul 2018 10:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/03/sheps-sees-future-in-cask-keg-and-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/07/03/sheps-sees-future-in-cask-keg-and-bottle Monks at Mount St Bernard Abbey in Charnwood, Leicestershire, have brewed the first monastic beer since the Reformation. The abbey is a Trappist one and has strong links with the monastic breweries in Belgium but the beer is described as an "English Trappist Ale" using all English ingredients. The beer is on sale commercially and the income will help the monks' maintain the abbey and also help fund their charitable work Wed, 27 Jun 2018 08:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/06/27/monks-restore-historic-brewing-tradition https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/06/27/monks-restore-historic-brewing-tradition Beavertown Brewery in North London has received a £40 million investment from Heineken in return for a major share in the company. This will allow founder Logan Plant (pictured) to build a new 450,000 hectolitre brewery. But will Heineken end up the sole owner of Beavertown? The omens are not good as "Big Beer" moves in on the craft sector in both the United States and the UK Sat, 23 Jun 2018 18:37:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/06/23/big-beer-moves-in-on-beavertown https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/06/23/big-beer-moves-in-on-beavertown Eden River Brew in Penrith has joined forces with design students at Cumbria University to fashion a new range of beers with vibrant coloured cans. The range includes two IPAs -- one of them sour -- a fruit wheat beer and a Belgian-style farmhouse saison. Sun, 10 Jun 2018 17:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/06/10/eden-river-beers-on-steep-learning-curve https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/06/10/eden-river-beers-on-steep-learning-curve Norwich is linked to Rouen in France and David Holliday at Norfolk Brewhouse was keen to brew a beer that commemorated the association. He found that Northmaen brewery on a farm near Rouen in Normandy grows its own grain and was also keen to stress the Vikings' link between the two regions. The result is Amitie IPA, launched during City of Ale in Norwich. Pictured: Dominique Camus at Northmaen with Bruce Ash from Norfolk Brewhouse Mon, 28 May 2018 15:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/28/viking-beer-cements-norfolk-rouen-link https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/28/viking-beer-cements-norfolk-rouen-link Torrential rain prevented speeches being made at the launch of Norwich City of Ale 2018. City of Ale has been running for eight years and has been a ground-breaking festival, a rolling series of events that emphasise the importance of the pub to good beer. Here's the speech I planned to make. Pictured: City of Ale founders Dawn Leeder and Phil Cutter with Norwich South MP Clive Lewis (centre) at the launch party Fri, 25 May 2018 12:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/25/city-of-ale-the-speech-i-didn-t-make-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/25/city-of-ale-the-speech-i-didn-t-make-1 More than 44,000 drinkers are expected to pack the six-day beer festival in Cambridge. It's the 45th one in the city and is the longest-running event staged by CAMRA. There are 216 beers to enjoy, along with cider, perry, wine and mead. Wed, 23 May 2018 22:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/23/cambridge-beer-fest-is-one-of-the-best https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/23/cambridge-beer-fest-is-one-of-the-best Siren Craft Brew in Berkshire, which has a big barrel-ageing programme, has launched a series of new beers, several made in collaboration with other brewers in Britain, the U.S. and Spain. In Scotland, Innis & Gunn has produced a new IPA, Gunnpowder, in bottle and can, using American hops Mon, 21 May 2018 08:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/21/siren-and-i-g-new-beers-on-the-block https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/21/siren-and-i-g-new-beers-on-the-block Bath Ales, owned since 2016 by St Austell of Cornwall, has opened a new £5 million brewhouse where both ales and lager can be produced. A new lager called Sulis has been launched but 50% of the annual 50,000-barrel production is in cask form and includes the flagship Gem Ale and a new West Coast IPA, Lansdown. Pictured: senior brewer Darren James who has been with Bath Ales for more than 15 years Thu, 17 May 2018 17:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/17/cask-is-king-at-new-bath-ales-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/17/cask-is-king-at-new-bath-ales-brewery Adnams Brewery in Suffolk is famous for its cask ales -- but times are changing. Chairman Jonathan Adnams (pictured),in a frank interview, says only a tiny proportion of his production goes to his own pubs and in the free trade there's a growing demand for keg beer -- and sales of keg will overtake cask by 2019. Wed, 16 May 2018 07:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/16/keg-s-big-challenge-to-cask-at-adnams https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/16/keg-s-big-challenge-to-cask-at-adnams A new brewery museum in Izmir traces the history -- sometimes turbulent -- of brewing in Turkey. The first commercial breweries didn't open until the last years of the Ottoman empire. Under the Turkish Republic there were periods of state ownership. The museum shows how the first breweries -- such as Bomonti in Constantinople (pictured) -- moved from ale to lager brewing. Today, the biggest brewery, Efes, is planning its own small museum in Izmir. Sun, 13 May 2018 14:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/13/museum-traces-turbulent-turkish-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/13/museum-traces-turbulent-turkish-brewing Carlsberg, owner of Joshua Tetley, has launched a pale ale, Tetley No 3, in cask form. The beer is based on a 19th-century recipe found in the Tetley archive and it's brewed by the local Leeds Brewery using 100 per cent English malts and hops. Following the closure of Tetley's, the beers have been brewed by Marston's in Wolverhampton but Carlsberg is now taking the brand back to its Yorkshire roots Sun, 13 May 2018 08:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/13/tetley-is-back--and-brewed-in-leeds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/13/tetley-is-back--and-brewed-in-leeds Turkey saw its first ever beer festival in Izmir in May. There are now seven craft breweries in the country and a vigorous home-brewing scene as well. For decades the country has been dominated by one large brewery, Efes, but now the impact of the world-wide craft revolution is being felt. Pictured, the hall in Izmir where Brewstival was staged Sat, 12 May 2018 17:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/12/turkish-delight-at-first-ever-beer-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/05/12/turkish-delight-at-first-ever-beer-fest Bedford family brewer Charles Wells, who sold the Eagle Brewery to Marston's in 2017, has been given the green light by the local council to build a new plant at Fairhill close to the A6. The 30,000 hectolitre plant will produce the current range of Wells' beers along with new beers and collaborative brews with other companies Thu, 03 May 2018 15:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/03/wells-gets-go-ahead-for-new-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/05/03/wells-gets-go-ahead-for-new-brewery Henley brewer Brakspear has launched for the third year running its Honey Bee Beer that raises money for Friends of the Earth's Bee Cause Campaign. The beer helps raise awareness of the need to save habitats for bees, which are the world's most important pollinator. As a result of demand for the beer, production has moved this year to the Wychwood Brewery in Witney Mon, 30 Apr 2018 12:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/04/30/bee-happy-with-brakspear-honey-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/04/30/bee-happy-with-brakspear-honey-beer Jackie Parker, the new chairman of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, says beer drinkers must ignore many of the distorted views in the media and on Twitter about the decisions taken at the annual meeting and grasp the fact that the campaign, following a major review of its role, will go forward with great determination to support real ale, cider, perry and pubs -- but is opening the door to other types of beer at its festivals Fri, 27 Apr 2018 11:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/04/27/camra-s-new-chair-on-need-for-change https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/04/27/camra-s-new-chair-on-need-for-change Stephen Beaumont's new book is a world guide to the best beers, bars and pubs. It covers Britain, Europe, the Far East, Australia, New Zealand, and America north and south. It's a well-designed and illustrated book that will have beer lovers reaching for their passports to follow in his bibulous footsteps Fri, 27 Apr 2018 08:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/27/beaumont-s-beery-magic-carpet-ride https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/27/beaumont-s-beery-magic-carpet-ride The decisions taken by the Campaign for Real Ale at its annual meeting have been widely reported -- and widely misunderstood. As a result of company law, 75% of members have to support a change to the constitution and a call to make CAMRA the voice of all pubgoers failed by just 3%. But other important changes were agreed and suggestions that cask ale is under threat do not stand up to scrutiny Mon, 23 Apr 2018 20:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/04/23/camra-past-present-and-future-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/04/23/camra-past-present-and-future-1 A tasting of aged beers organised by Brad Wight at the Steam Machine Brewery in Co Durham included beers going back to the 1950s and possibly pre-World War Two. Pictured are the group of volunteers who tasted the beers and found that some aged better than others and bottle-conditioning was no guarantee of success Sat, 21 Apr 2018 10:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/21/will-old-ales-stand-up-to-the-taste-test https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/21/will-old-ales-stand-up-to-the-taste-test Ash Corbett-Collins, CAMRA's Young Members Coordinator, says it is vital that the Campaign attracts the thousands of young beer lovers who are not yet members. They are needed to strengthen the Campaign at all levels and support beer festivals and other activities that attempt to attract drinkers Wed, 18 Apr 2018 07:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2018/04/18/camra-reach-out-to-young-drinkers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2018/04/18/camra-reach-out-to-young-drinkers Both the Society of Independent Brewers and the Campaign for Real Ale have criticised a report by Cambridge University that says drinking alcohol can shorten people's lives. Both organisations stress the health and societal benefits of moderate drinking. Fri, 13 Apr 2018 14:37:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/04/13/siba-and-camra-slam-drink-warning https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/04/13/siba-and-camra-slam-drink-warning Export sales of American craft beer grew by 3.6 per cent in 2017 and sales to the UK increased by 7.1 per cent -- making the UK the second biggest export market for American craft beer after Canada. There are now 6,372 craft breweries in the U.S. and exports are worth $125 million Thu, 05 Apr 2018 16:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/04/05/big-jump-in-american-beer-exports-to-uk https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/04/05/big-jump-in-american-beer-exports-to-uk The latest beer craze is a style based on Saison, a farmhouse beer brewed in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of Belgium. The best-known Saison brewer there is Dupont (pictured) which started life as a farm. Saison was originally brewed by farmers to refresh their families and labourers during the harvest period. Other Saison brewers include Brasserie a Vapeur and Silly in the town of the same name Thu, 05 Apr 2018 11:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/05/it-s-always-the-season-for-a-saison https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/05/it-s-always-the-season-for-a-saison Bradley Cummings (right) and Gareth Williams sprang to fame in 2015 when their beer Cwtch -- Welsh for "cuddle" -- won the Champion Beer of Britain award. Their Tiny Rebel brewery in Newport started life in a garage but it's now a substantial business, exporting all round the world and planning further expansion Wed, 04 Apr 2018 09:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/04/still-a-rebel-but-no-longer-tiny https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/04/04/still-a-rebel-but-no-longer-tiny Kindred Spirits is a 6.1 per cent stout from Innis & Gunn in Perth that's aged in Irish whiskey barrels that were first used to triple distil Tullamore D.E.W. Innis & Gunn started life when William Grant acquired some ale for barrel-ageing from the Caledonian Brewery. The beer tasted so good that head brewer Dougal Sharp left Caley to launch his own company. Turning full circle, Tullamore is now part of the William Grant group. Thu, 22 Mar 2018 15:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/03/22/scots-stout-irish-whiskey-pool-flavours https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/03/22/scots-stout-irish-whiskey-pool-flavours Wolf Brewery in Norfolk and North Brewing of Leeds have stormed to victory in SIBA's national brewing awards at Beerex 18 in Liverpool. They won gold awards in the cask and keg categories with Tring Brewery also scooping gold in the small pack sector Fri, 16 Mar 2018 08:37:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/03/16/wolf-and-north-seize-siba-gold https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/03/16/wolf-and-north-seize-siba-gold Graham Wheeler championed the cause of real ale with a series of best-selling home brewing guides. Roger Protz recalls a reclusive writer who ignored deadlines but finally produced books that encouraged a generation of beer lovers to make good beer at home Thu, 15 Mar 2018 16:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/03/15/saluting-a-home-brewing-pioneer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/03/15/saluting-a-home-brewing-pioneer With the spotlight turned on small craft brewers, beer lovers tend to forget that large amount of cask beer are produced by the 47 family brewers that have survived the turmoil of the late 20th century. Arkells of Swindon (pictured) is celebrating 175 years of brewing in 2018 and the likes of Shepherd Neame, Harvey's and McMullen are even older. They deserve greater support and admiration Mon, 12 Mar 2018 11:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/03/12/three-cheers-for-britain-s-family-brewers-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/03/12/three-cheers-for-britain-s-family-brewers-1 The London Drinker beer festival, first staged in 1985, will call "time" this week as its home, the Camden Centre, is closing. The festival has been at the forefront of the revival of brewing in the capital where there are now more than 70 breweries. 150 of their beers will be on show this week. The success of the festival is down to the commitment of the North London branch of CAMRA and the remarkable duo of John and Christine Cryne Mon, 12 Mar 2018 08:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/03/12/ale-and-farewell-london-drinker https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/03/12/ale-and-farewell-london-drinker The Greek Public Prosecutor has dismissed claims by Heineken's subsidiary Athenian Brewery against the independent Macedonian Thrace Brewery for perjury as "totally false" and filed with "malicious abuse". The case is part of a long-running battle between MTB and the Heineken subsidiary over market abuse in Greece. Mon, 05 Mar 2018 11:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/03/05/greek-court-blow-for-heineken https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/03/05/greek-court-blow-for-heineken Mark Crilley is a prolific author and artist who uses the Japanese Manga style to fashion his comics and adventure stories for a mainly young adult audience. He has travelled widely and fell in love with British beer and pubs on visits to the UK. He regrets that so little British beer is available in the U.S. though one brewery in Michigan, where he lives, makes an ESB. Pictured is an illustration showing a character outside an English village pub Fri, 02 Mar 2018 12:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/03/02/mark-crilley-on-manga-beer-and-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/03/02/mark-crilley-on-manga-beer-and-pubs The Cricketers Arms in St Helens, Merseyside, was boarded up five years ago but it was rescued by Andy and Denise Evans and has now won CAMRA's prestigious Pub of the Year competition for 2018. Judges praised its wide range of cask ales and its strong community spirit. Andy and Denise are seen centre receiving their award Wed, 28 Feb 2018 12:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/28/saved-pub-is-now-britain-s-top-ale-house https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/28/saved-pub-is-now-britain-s-top-ale-house Milton Keynes was a small village in Buckinghamshire until the 1960s when it was designated a New Town. It lacked a brewing heritage but that is being developed now thanks to new small breweries such as Concrete Cow and Hornes and two beer shops cum micro pubs in Wolverton and Stony Stratford. Pictured: Dan Bonner at Concrete Cow Mon, 26 Feb 2018 08:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/02/26/meet-the-milton-keynes-beer-dons https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/02/26/meet-the-milton-keynes-beer-dons Green Jack Brewery in Lowestoft has walked away with the Champion Winter Beer of Britain top award at CAMRA's winter beer festival in Norwich. Tim Dunford from Green Jack is seen collecting his award from festival organiser Nick Boley Wed, 21 Feb 2018 15:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/21/ripper-lowestoft-beer-wins-winter-gong https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/21/ripper-lowestoft-beer-wins-winter-gong Fuller's claims it has "joined forces" with Dark Star but in truth the big London brewer has bought the Sussex independent outright. But it's a different acquisition to Gales of Hampshire in 2005, a run down brewery its owners were desperate to sell. Fuller's says it will keep Dark Star open and will expand sales at home and abroad and managing director James Cuthbertson (pictured) stays in post Wed, 21 Feb 2018 13:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/02/21/dark-star-can-we-look-on-the-bright-side https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/02/21/dark-star-can-we-look-on-the-bright-side Burton resident Ian Webster has a great love of his home town and its long and noble brewing history. He has researched the subject deeply but the mere 95 pages of his new book Brewing in Burton upon Trent doesn't do the subject justice. He has, however, discovered some fascinating old photos of brewing in the 19th and 20th centuries and the book offers a useful tour of the town, picking out breweries old and new Sun, 18 Feb 2018 17:23:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2018/02/18/potted-history-of-brewing-in-beer-town https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2018/02/18/potted-history-of-brewing-in-beer-town A rare collection of black and white photos by David Evans has been unearthed and used in a new film that traces the life and times of hop pickers in Herefordshire in the 1950s and 60s. The photo left shows the Jones family picking hops -- a ritual that disappeared when mechanisation took over. The film Stories from the Hop Yards, will be premiered in Hereford on 3 March Fri, 16 Feb 2018 13:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/16/historic-photos-put-hops-in-the-picture https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/16/historic-photos-put-hops-in-the-picture Jo Theakston of the Masham brewing dynasty is seen in the revamped visitor centre at the Black Sheep Brewery in Masham, North Yorkshire. Using local craftspeople and materials, the centre offers a wide range of cask and craft beers and bistro-style food. It plans to attract even greater numbers of visitors who can tour the brewery and follow its path to success over the past 25 years. Thu, 15 Feb 2018 10:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/15/baa-gum-visitors-flock-to-black-sheep https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/02/15/baa-gum-visitors-flock-to-black-sheep Steve Wellington, a revered figure in brewing circles, is retiring...allegedly. He has retired four times before but this time he means it -- except that the owners of the Heritage Brewery in Burton-on-Trent want him to stay on as a consultant. He is seen on the left in the brewery with his colleagues Caroline Horrabin and Martin Hodson. Steve worked in various parts of the old Bass empire but his main claim to fame was bringing Worthington's White Shield back to Burton Mon, 05 Feb 2018 13:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/02/05/steve-wellington-burton-s-beer-hero https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/02/05/steve-wellington-burton-s-beer-hero Brian Watson has a remote brewery -- in the heart of London. He set up Oddly Brewery in decaying buildings on Platts' Eyot on the River Thames, near Hampton Court Palace. Getting brewing kit and ingredients on to the island required adapted boats and many hours of labour -- the photo left shows the brewing kit arriving. But the buildings have been repaired and brewing is going full-steam ahead and meeting drinkers' approval, as Sarah Howe reports Fri, 02 Feb 2018 14:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/02/02/beer-takes-to-the-water-on-thames-island https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/02/02/beer-takes-to-the-water-on-thames-island Suffolk brewer Greene King has restored a 19th-century barley, Chevallier, to brew a new Heritage Series of beers. Suffolk Pale Ale and Vintage Fine Ale are on sale exclusively in Tesco. The grain was grown by Crisp Malt in Norfolk who took just five seeds to grow a new batch of the grain Wed, 31 Jan 2018 09:24:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/01/31/greene-king-brings-back-taste-of-the-past https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/01/31/greene-king-brings-back-taste-of-the-past 2018 will be a crunch year for CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale. After two years of discussions around the Revitalisation Project, the campaign's 195,000 members will have to decide whether to move beyond cask ale and embrace other types of beer. Roger Protz argues that the threat to good beer comes not from craft brewers but from global giants such as AB InBev and CAMRA needs to recruit younger drinkers to take up the fight Sun, 28 Jan 2018 12:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/01/28/why-camra-must-embrace-good-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2018/01/28/why-camra-must-embrace-good-beer The former Charles Wells Brewery in Bedford, sold to Marston's last year for £55 million, has re-opened as the Eagle Brewery and will have a visitor centre, with brewery tours available. Such former Wells' brands as Bombardier, Eagle IPA, Waggle Dance and Banana Bread Beer, will be given fresh investment and promotion. And Courage Imperial Russian Stout could be revived Tue, 23 Jan 2018 16:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/01/23/marston-s-has-an-eagle-s-nest-in-bedford https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/01/23/marston-s-has-an-eagle-s-nest-in-bedford CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- is reaching out all beer lovers, not just cask ale drinkers, with a set of new proposals that will radically change the direction of the 46-year-old consumer organisation. As a result of its Revitalisation Programme, CAMRA's leadership will propose to its annual meeting in April that it should extend its scope to other types of quality beer -- though real ale will remain its focus Mon, 22 Jan 2018 10:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/01/22/camra-reaches-out-to-all-beer-lovers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2018/01/22/camra-reaches-out-to-all-beer-lovers St Pancras Station in London is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2018 -- and beer will be the centrepiece of events. The station was built to bring beer from Burton-on-Trent to London and St Pancras helped revolutionise brewing, acquainting Londoners with pale ale for the first time. Events at the station will include a beer festival in October and a special IPA has been brewed by Lost Rivers, with the first batch delivered by a Young's dray Sun, 14 Jan 2018 11:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/01/14/beer-highlight-of-st-pancras-celebrations https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/01/14/beer-highlight-of-st-pancras-celebrations 8 January 2018 was a double celebration. Bateman's award-winning strong bitter XXXB chalked up 40 years since it was first brewed and four generations of brewers were in attendance as two beer lovers, Michael and Hannah Borill from Lincoln, helped mash in and boil malt and hops for a batch restored to its original strength of 4.8 per cent Wed, 10 Jan 2018 17:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/01/10/tears-and-cheers-at-batemans-as-xxxb-celebrates-40-glorious-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/01/10/tears-and-cheers-at-batemans-as-xxxb-celebrates-40-glorious-years The beer world has moved on from the likes of Mild and Bitter. Craft brewers are endlessly seeking out new and sometimes extreme flavours in beer. Some writers question whether adding fruit to beer is a step too far but there's no doubt that wood ageing has brought new dimensions to the pleasures of drinking. And Adnams' Ghost Ship, with its rich hop character, is now the brewery's top-selling beer Fri, 05 Jan 2018 09:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/01/05/beer-flavour-is-top-of-the-agenda https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2018/01/05/beer-flavour-is-top-of-the-agenda A Kent pub has been given CAMRA's Pub Saving Award following a spirited campaign by locals to save it. The Harrow in Stockbury was closed by brewer Shepherd Neame but the community came together to raise the funds to buy and re-open it in 2017. It's now the hub of the community, offering not only good beer but book swaps and an internet cafe. Thu, 28 Dec 2017 11:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/12/28/pub-campaigners-win-top-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/12/28/pub-campaigners-win-top-award Gale's Prize Old Ale, aged in wood, looked to have died when the brewery was bought and closed by Fuller's in 2006. But now the major London brewery has worked with Marble in Manchester to restore the classic ale, ageing it in four oak barrels for a year. Marble head brewer James Kemp has released the beers in four different signatures from bourbon, Barbera, Madeira and Pinot Noir barrels Wed, 27 Dec 2017 14:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/12/27/fuller-s-marble-revive-classic-old-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/12/27/fuller-s-marble-revive-classic-old-ale Three men -- Martin Taylor, Simon Everitt and Richard Coldwell -- known as the Completists have a rare passion for pubs. Their aim is to visit every pub listed in the Good Beer Guide -- and they plan weekends and holidays with military precision. They love pubs because "pubs are about people" and they don't enjoy drinking at home. Roger Protz joined them on a crawl of some of Sheffield's finest hostelries Sun, 17 Dec 2017 18:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/12/17/a-passion-for-pubs-the-completists-tour-britain-with-good-beer-guide-to-hand https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/12/17/a-passion-for-pubs-the-completists-tour-britain-with-good-beer-guide-to-hand If you love good beer and historic inns, two books make ideal gifts. IPA -- A Legend in Our Time details the origins and astonishing revival of India Pale Ale while Historic Coaching Inns of the Great North Road traces the hostelries that still stand proud on Britain''s major arterial route. Pictured, the Angel and Royal in Grantham. Sun, 17 Dec 2017 13:43:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/12/17/ipa-and-coaching-inns-fine-xmas-gifts https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/12/17/ipa-and-coaching-inns-fine-xmas-gifts With Christmas and New Year fast approaching, a small group of beer lovers sat down to sample a few of the offerings available this year. They ranged from jet-black porters to the palest of pale ales and the beer that found most favour was one brewed with Biblical additions of frankincense and myrrh. Wed, 13 Dec 2017 18:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/12/13/scots-beer-is-star-of-the-christmas-tree https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/12/13/scots-beer-is-star-of-the-christmas-tree The third edition of the Pocket Beer Book offers a wide range of beers, some from countries new to the beer scene. The lists include Iconic Breweries and Breweries to Watch. The authors warn drinkers of the dangers of "Big Beer" moving into the craft sector and dumbing down excellent artisan brews. Sun, 03 Dec 2017 12:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/12/03/whirlwind-tour-of-the-world-s-best-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/12/03/whirlwind-tour-of-the-world-s-best-beers The decision by Chancellor Philip Hammond in his Budget to freeze beer duty and extend business rates relief to pubs has been welcomed by the Campaign for Real Ale and the Society of Independent Brewers. Both organisations feel the moves will aid the embattled pub sector and encourage consumers back to the pub/ Wed, 22 Nov 2017 16:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/22/camra-and-siba-budget-response https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/22/camra-and-siba-budget-response Wychwood Brewery in Oxfordshire, brewer of Hobgoblin ruby ale -- second-biggest bottled beer in Britain -- has added a 5.3% IPA to the range. The beer is brewed with pale and Vienna malts and hopped with both English and American varieties Mon, 20 Nov 2017 09:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/20/hobgoblin-adds-ipa-to-top-selling-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/20/hobgoblin-adds-ipa-to-top-selling-range Moor Beer, the Bristol-based brewery run by American Justin Hawke, is breaking into the fast-growing Italian beer market with cask-conditioned real ale. The beer comes complete with instructions in Italian on how to cellar, tap, spile and serve the beer. Moor Beers are naturally hazy as Hawke does not use isinglass finings to clear his beers. Fri, 17 Nov 2017 09:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/17/moor-gives-italians-a-taste-for-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/17/moor-gives-italians-a-taste-for-cask-ale Hogs Back Brewery in Surrey has won new listings in a number of supermarkets, including Co-op and Morrison's, for its TEA bitter with Hogstar lager in Majestic Wines. The brewery has also announced two beers that are ideal for the Christmas period: Advent Ale and the strong vintage ale A over T. The beers are brewed with hops grown on the brewery's own garden and include Farnham White Bine, a historic variety revived by Hogs Back. Tue, 14 Nov 2017 17:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/14/get-high-on-the-hogs-back-for-xmas-time https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/14/get-high-on-the-hogs-back-for-xmas-time 50 MPs have signed a petition calling on Chancellor Philip Hammond to ease the crippling tax burden on Britain's pubs in his autumn Budget in November. The petition is seen being delivered to the Treasury by MPs Mike Wood, Ruth Smeeth and Stephen Lloyd, officers of the Parliamentary Beer Group. MPs are calling for a cut or freeze in excise duty and help to ease the business rates burden on pubs Mon, 13 Nov 2017 13:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/13/mps-demand-a-budget-for-britain-s-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/13/mps-demand-a-budget-for-britain-s-pubs A former closed Young's pub in Richmond, London, has been restored as a vibrant community local by Chris French (pictured) with a policy of serving beers from outside the M25 along with bought-in pizzas and help from Rudi the cocker spaniel, voted the cutest UK pub dog Sat, 11 Nov 2017 09:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/11/11/beer-and-cute-pooch-boost-london-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/11/11/beer-and-cute-pooch-boost-london-local Four pubs have been short-listed by CAMRA for the prestigious National Pub of the Year award. The winner will be announced in February 2018. The four are the Stanford Arms in Lowestoft (publicans Samantha and David Burd pictured left), the Weavers in Kidderminster, the Cricketers, St Helens, and Wigan Central Tue, 07 Nov 2017 09:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/07/four-pubs-are-vying-for-national-glory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/11/07/four-pubs-are-vying-for-national-glory David Bruce, famous as the founder of the Firkin pub chain and Slug & Lettuce, now runs the West Berkshire Brewery. He has transformed the small site in an old bakery into a large new brewery on a former dairy farm with a multi-functional brewhouse producing ale and lager. He has also installed a visitor centre where drinkers can sample the beers and watch brewing through a glass wall. There's a ramped up beer range with Renegade craft beers alongside the original cask ales Mon, 30 Oct 2017 12:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/30/david-bruce-rolls-out-barrels-in-berkshire https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/30/david-bruce-rolls-out-barrels-in-berkshire Dougal Sharp, pictured outside the barrel house at Inveralmond Brewery in Perth, has achieved his ambition of owning his own brewery. While Inveralmond continues to brew cask ales, Innis & Gunn now has a base for its oak-aged range of beers. But there's controversy surrounding the main I&G beers as they are produced by a method using oak chips and are not aged in wood casks. Dougal Sharp says he's "putting the barrels into the beer". Fri, 27 Oct 2017 08:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/27/i-g-finds-a-way-through-the-wood https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/27/i-g-finds-a-way-through-the-wood Brewers are still using sexist images to sell beer, says Katie Wiles -- and it demeans women drinkers. Recent examples (left) are from Robinson's and Moorhouse's while an Italian beer has caused an uproar with a crude label suggesting a woman drinker is performing fellatio. And an Irish brewery is using a sexist image for its Dublin Blonde Lager. Thu, 26 Oct 2017 09:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2017/10/26/time-to-kick-sexism-out-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2017/10/26/time-to-kick-sexism-out-of-beer The British Pubs Confederation has welcomed the appointment of barrister Fiona Dickie as Deputy Pubs Adjudicator and hopes she will break the legal log jam and help publicans gain access to the Market Rent Only option. MRO will enable publicans to go free of tie -- a move fiercely resisted by the large pubcos. The confederation is highly critical of Pubs Adjudicator Paul Newby who they claim has flouted the terms of the Pubs Code Wed, 25 Oct 2017 14:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/25/pub-campaigners-welcome-legal-voice https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/25/pub-campaigners-welcome-legal-voice There are now more than 2,000 independent craft breweries in Britain -- a jump of 18 per cent in the past year, according to a new report by UHY Hacker Young. Tax breaks introduced by the last Labour government have encouraged new brewers -- including home brewers -- to enter the market. But the report warns that global brewers are moving into the craft sector and are keen to buy successful small breweries Mon, 23 Oct 2017 09:23:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/23/british-craft-beer-goes-on-booming https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/23/british-craft-beer-goes-on-booming The seventh annual Spa Valley railway beer festival, held in conjunction with West Kent CAMRA, offers beer at Tunbridge Wells West Station and also on trains to Groombridge and Eridge. The centrepiece of the festival is 25 "green hop" beers, using hops fresh from the Kent harvest. Pictured, the engine shed at Tunbridge Wells Fri, 20 Oct 2017 16:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/20/beer-on-the-move-at-kent-train-festival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/20/beer-on-the-move-at-kent-train-festival The Square & Compass in Dorset was feted by CAMRA veterans when landlord Charlie Newman received a framed certificate to mark the pub's inclusion in all 45 editions of the Good Beer Guide. The pub serves beer from Hattie Brown's in Swanage, the first brewery in the town for more than 100 years. Pictured left to right: CAMRA founder member MIchael Hardman with a copy of the first guide in 1974, Charlie Newman, current editor Roger Protz, and pub manager Kevin Hunt Wed, 18 Oct 2017 11:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/18/saluting-dorset-pub-and-seaside-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/18/saluting-dorset-pub-and-seaside-brewery Petr Dvorak, the new managing director of Budweiser Budvar in the Czech Republic, is masterminding a £80 million expansion programme at the brewery to build production and sales. The brewery is still locked in disputes with global giant AB InBev over the Budweiser trademark but Dvorak is confident that sales of Original, Budvar Dark, Krausen beer and tank beer will forge ahead in both domestic and overseas markets Mon, 16 Oct 2017 09:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/16/budvar-goes-for-growth-but-legal-wrangles-continue-with-ab-inbev https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/10/16/budvar-goes-for-growth-but-legal-wrangles-continue-with-ab-inbev Liverpool pubs are picking up awards galore. Micro-pub Cask has twice been named Pub of the Year by the local branch of CAMRA while the famous Roscoe Head has been given a framed certificate to mark its inclusion in all 45 editions of the Good Beer Guide. Across the Mersey in Birkenhead, Gallagher's Pub & Barbers -- both Wirral and Merseyside Pub of the Year -- has had to stop offering haircuts due to the demand for its fine range of beers Sun, 08 Oct 2017 10:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/08/it-s-beery-across-the-mersey https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/08/it-s-beery-across-the-mersey Two Italians from Naples, Pasquale Ambrosio and Angelo Chionchio, run a successful pizzeria, Santa Maria, in Ealing, West London and they have now moved next door to run a Fuller's pub, the Red Lion on St Mary's Road. The Neapolitan duo have a passion for pizza and import all the ingredients from Italy, along with a wood-fired oven. They have added their own special beer, Santa Maria IPA from Bianca Road Brew in Peckham Mon, 02 Oct 2017 17:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/02/a-pint-and-a-pizza-the-real-italian-job https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/10/02/a-pint-and-a-pizza-the-real-italian-job Pubs face closure due to the crippling level of business rates imposed by the government. CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- is making a submission to the Chancellor, Philip Hammond, ahead of the November Budget, calling for £5,000 annual rates relief for pubs to keep them in business. Thu, 28 Sep 2017 09:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/28/rates-time-bomb-killing-pubs--camra https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/28/rates-time-bomb-killing-pubs--camra The latest Cask Report underlines the importance of cask beer -- real ale --to Britain's pubs. With many new breweries opening, cask beer continues to encourage people to visit local pubs and enjoy the range on offer. The report says the diversity of beer available is now wide and consumption of real ale in pubs aids the British economy far more than coffee shops. Wed, 27 Sep 2017 13:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/27/cask-beer-is-pub-hero-says-report https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/27/cask-beer-is-pub-hero-says-report Writer Katie Wiles challenges the myth that women don't like beer. She talks to a number of women drinkers who say they prefer flavour-rich beer to wine and they enjoy drinking in pubs, which are no longer a male preserve. And, Katie argues, there's no such thing as a "woman's palate"! Mon, 25 Sep 2017 10:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2017/09/25/cheers-ladies-really-love-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2017/09/25/cheers-ladies-really-love-beer Leading writer Melissa Cole tackles the growing world of craft beer -- though she admits she's not certain what the word means. She chooses her favourites from such styles as Pilsner, wheat, brown, fruit and farmhouse and matches them with suggested food dishes. She admits this a book for beginners and not for "nerds". Sun, 24 Sep 2017 09:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/09/24/melissa-s-romp-through-craft-beer-world https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/09/24/melissa-s-romp-through-craft-beer-world Pubs across the country will support Cask Ale Week, an annual celebration of Britain's unique contribution to the world of beer. With 1,700 breweries in the UK and a myriad of styles, there will be plenty to enjoy during the week. So hurry to a pub and order a Pint of the Best Mon, 18 Sep 2017 12:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/18/raise-a-glass-to-our-great-national-drink https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/18/raise-a-glass-to-our-great-national-drink The 45th edition of the CAMRA Good Beer Guide lists 4,500 pubs -- and five of them have graced all 45 editions of the guide. The pubs are in London, Liverpool, Dorset and Cambridgeshire and all share the same appeal -- superb pints of great beer. Pictured: the Buckingham Arms in Petty France, London, SW1 Sun, 17 Sep 2017 13:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/17/salute-good-beer-guide-s-famous-5-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/09/17/salute-good-beer-guide-s-famous-5-pubs British hops are no longer in the doldrums. There are now 50 hop farmers producing 27 varieties, with a large proportion going for export. Beer lovers can celebrate the Great Hop Revival this autumn with a raft of festivals, exhibitions and train rides. Get hopping! Mon, 11 Sep 2017 08:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/09/11/celebrate-great-hop-revival-this-autumn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/09/11/celebrate-great-hop-revival-this-autumn Carlsberg says it has "taken lagering out of lager". This is a remarkable claim by the brewery that produced the first pure strain of lager yeast in the 19th century thanks to the pioneering work of Emil Hansen (pictured) in the Copenhagen laboratory. But if modern global brands of lager are produced in just 21 days, what should we call this style of beer that is not aged and conditioned? Mon, 04 Sep 2017 08:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/09/04/to-lager-or-not-to-lager-it-s-the-new-brewing-conundrum-in-denmark https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/09/04/to-lager-or-not-to-lager-it-s-the-new-brewing-conundrum-in-denmark Danish brewer Carlsberg has found the genome in barley and its scientists are developing new varieties of grain that can resist drought and extreme temperatures and also use less water. The brewer is reducing its carbon footprint and is also developing new hop varieties that can be grown in the Nordic countries and Russia, which are too cold for conventional hops Tue, 29 Aug 2017 09:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/08/29/carlsberg-gets-to-the-roots-of-barley https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/08/29/carlsberg-gets-to-the-roots-of-barley In a stimulating and deeply researched new book, 20th Century Pub, Jessica Boak and Ray Bailey trace the history of the pub in a period that saw it bruised and battered by two world wars, interfering politicians and the rise of giant breweries and pub companies. In spite of all the turbulence, the authors are optimistic for the future of our treasured boozers Sat, 19 Aug 2017 09:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/08/19/don-t-call-last-orders-on-embattled-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/08/19/don-t-call-last-orders-on-embattled-pubs A new hop has led to raised eyebrows at Hogs Back Brewery in Surrey where some of the Farnham White Bine variety has changed sex -- from female to male. The hop variety was brought back from the dead a few years ago by Hogs Back and grown on a field opposite the brewery. But now the brewery has discovered that some of the hops have switched gender from female to male -- and only female hops are needed for making beer. Hogs Back managing director Rupert Thompson is perplexed Mon, 14 Aug 2017 08:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/08/14/lad-or-lassie-hop-is-caught-in-a-bind https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/08/14/lad-or-lassie-hop-is-caught-in-a-bind Church End Brewery's Goats Milk Bitter has walked away with the Gold award in the Champion Beer of Britain competition staged by CAMRA at the Great British Beer Festival at London Olympia. The beer was first brewed as a one-off for a pub but proved so popular it has become a regular part of the brewery's range. Paul Hamblett from Church End is seen with the trophy at Olympia Tue, 08 Aug 2017 16:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/08/08/warwickshire-bitter-wins-olympia-gold https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/08/08/warwickshire-bitter-wins-olympia-gold Anchor Brewing of San Francisco has been bought by the giant Japanese brewery Sapporo, which means yet another independent craft brewery has fallen to Big Beer. Anchor, famous for its steam beer, enjoys iconic status in the US as it played a key role in kick-starting the great American beer revival in the 1960s Sat, 05 Aug 2017 12:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/08/05/big-beer-snaps-up-iconic-anchor-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/08/05/big-beer-snaps-up-iconic-anchor-brewery Greg Koch launched Stone Brewing when he discovered there was more to American beer than Budweiser and Miller Lite. Starting with a 30-barrel kit in 1996 he now has breweries in California, Virginia and Berlin and is producing some 400,000 barrels a year, with 30 IPAs in his portfolio Fri, 28 Jul 2017 08:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/07/28/stone-s-greg-koch-i-m-an-ipa-diehard https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/07/28/stone-s-greg-koch-i-m-an-ipa-diehard This year's Great British Beer Festival will have a strong campaigning theme as SIBA joins forces with CAMRA to emphasise beers produced by genuine craft brewers. The SIBA logo of Assured British Craft Brewer will be widely used throughout the festival at a time when global brewers are buying small breweries in both Britain and the United States.The festival will have several hundred British cask beers along with a World Beer section featuring beers from the U.S., Australia and New Zealand Wed, 26 Jul 2017 12:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/26/camra-fest-to-back-genuine-craft-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/26/camra-fest-to-back-genuine-craft-beer The Gunmakers Arms in Hockley plays a central role in Birmingham Beer Week and specialises in unfined beers from the neighbouring Two Towers Brewery. The beers range from dark mild, through golden ale and bitter to porter and the lack of isinglass does not detract from the full-bodied character of the beers. Mon, 24 Jul 2017 09:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/07/24/gunmakers-firing-on-all-cylinders https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/07/24/gunmakers-firing-on-all-cylinders Audit Ale is a historc beer style, once brewed for Oxford and Cambridge colleges for the annual Audit Feast. Last October I helped brew a version of the beer at the White Horse Brewery near Oxford, backed by Titanic Brewery. The 7% beer was then aged in wood -- a wine cask obtained from the port industry. After several months in cask, the finished beer is a revelation Sun, 23 Jul 2017 09:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/23/here-s-one-i-brewed-earlier https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/23/here-s-one-i-brewed-earlier In his new book IPA: a Legend in Our Time, Roger Protz explores the origins of the style that is now a world-wide phenomenon. He traces the roots of the beer in Victorian Britain and, with the help of a small London brewery, recreates an old Bass recipe and ages the beer in wood -- with surprising results. The book goes to cover modern IPAs, brewed around the world, and such legendary versions as White Shield, Ballantine's and McEwan's Fri, 14 Jul 2017 08:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/07/14/ipa-beer-with-a-past-and-a-great-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/07/14/ipa-beer-with-a-past-and-a-great-revival Flo Vialan has been named Brewer of the Year by the Parliamentary Beer Club in its annual awards. The Frenchman from Lyon brews at Purity in Warwickshire, which specialises in helping the environment by re-cycling grain and hops and treating water used in the brewing process through a series of reed beds in the grounds Thu, 13 Jul 2017 08:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/13/go-with-the-flo-award-for-purity-brewer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/13/go-with-the-flo-award-for-purity-brewer SIBA -- the Society of Independent Brewers -- calls for greater clarity of who owns breweries and beers. It says beer drinkers should know whether a beer is brewed by an independent brewery or by a global producer. It will showcase independent beers at this year's Great British Beer Festival, run by CAMRA. Pictured: Jasper Cuppaidge of Camden Town Brewery, now owned by AB InBev. Mon, 10 Jul 2017 14:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/10/who-owns-your-beer-siba-wants-clarity https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/10/who-owns-your-beer-siba-wants-clarity Rock legend Bruce Dickinson, lead singer with Iron Maiden, has teamed up again with Robinson's brewery in Stockport to launch a new beer, Hallowed, a Belgian-style beer that uses a Belgian yeast culture to give the beer an authentic character. The beer follows the world-wide success of Trooper that has filled Robinson's new brewhouse to bursting point Mon, 10 Jul 2017 12:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/10/new-iron-maiden-ale-has-a-belgian-twist https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/07/10/new-iron-maiden-ale-has-a-belgian-twist The Brewers Association in the United States has launched a seal of approval scheme for American craft brewers to help them and consumers understand the difference between independent craft beer and the beverages made by global brewers. The BA says its important to let consumers know which beers are genuinely independent at a time when "Big Beer" is buying small breweries Wed, 28 Jun 2017 08:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/28/us-craft-brewers-get-seal-of-approval https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/28/us-craft-brewers-get-seal-of-approval Ralph Findlay, chief executive of Marston's, is bullish about the future of beer and pubs. He has more than 1,560 pubs and plans to bring back more "wet led" outlets to cater for the demand for craft beer. He says the recently acquired Charles Wells's beers won't change and will continue to be brewed at Bedford. He hopes to give greater presence to Courage and Young's beers in London and to boost McEwans in Scotland. Tue, 27 Jun 2017 09:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/06/27/marston-s-chief-on-the-future-for-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/06/27/marston-s-chief-on-the-future-for-pubs Students at Heriot-Watt University's Brewing and Distilling course in Edinburgh have recreated a 19th-century beer style, California Common, in collaboration with Stewart Brewing at Loanhead. The beer is based on the style known as Steam Beer, made with lager yeast but fermented at an ale temperature. The best-known example of the style is Anchor Brewery's Steam Beer: as that is a trademark, other brewers have to use the term California Common Mon, 26 Jun 2017 08:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/26/beer-students-create-california-classic https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/26/beer-students-create-california-classic Pete Brown has written a book full of profound insights into the history of beer and its vital raw materials: malt, hops, yeast and water. He challenges many received ideas on when beer was first brewed, the range of malts used in brewing, the development of hops and the possibility that lager yeast is older than we think. Mon, 19 Jun 2017 10:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/06/19/pete-brown-unravels-the-mysteries-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/06/19/pete-brown-unravels-the-mysteries-of-beer The Tallly Ho, a 90 year-old pub in Finchley, North London, has re-opened following a £750,000 refit by new owners Stonegate Pub Company. The pub dates from 1927 and was one of the earliest JD Wetherspoon outlets: founder Tim Martin had his office there. Wed, 07 Jun 2017 12:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/07/stonegate-re-opens-historic-tally-ho https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/07/stonegate-re-opens-historic-tally-ho A unique collaboration between brewers throughout Britain have joined forces to brew The Great Together Pale Ale that will be on sale over the weekend of 16-18 June to mark The Great Together that will celebrate the life of Jo Cox, who was murdered a year ago. 15 brewers have joined forces under the direction of Adnams' head brewer Fergus Fitzgerald, using English malt and hops. Profits from the sale of the beer will go to the Jo Cox Foundation. Tue, 06 Jun 2017 15:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/06/brewers-unite-to-remember-mp-jo-cox https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/06/brewers-unite-to-remember-mp-jo-cox Greene King, who are the official suppliers of beer to England Cricket, have teamed up with the Barmy Army, the globe-trotting supporters of the England team, to launch a special beer for the season that includes Test matches against the West Indies and South Africa. The 3.7% Barmy Army IPA will be available in cask and bottle until September. Sun, 04 Jun 2017 09:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/04/brewer-goes-barmy-over-cricket https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/04/brewer-goes-barmy-over-cricket Beer sommelier Jane Peyton is leading the crusade to celebrate our national drink with the 2017 version of Beer Day Britain on 15 June. This year the event will extend over the weekend with breweries and pubs taking part. Sambrook's in Battersea will stage a beer party while special brews will be launched by Brewster's and Thornbridge Thu, 01 Jun 2017 11:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/01/15-june-raise-a-glass-to-uk-s-great-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/06/01/15-june-raise-a-glass-to-uk-s-great-beer Beer writer Adrian Tierney-Jones offers his selection of 350 of the world's greatest beers, divided into seven sections to reflect the mood of the drinker and the ability of brewers to fashion beers for all occasions, from quiet reflection to riotous festivals. Wed, 31 May 2017 09:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/05/31/join-adrian-s-beery-voyage-of-discovery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/05/31/join-adrian-s-beery-voyage-of-discovery Moor Beer in Bristol is celebrating the first anniversary of its PMA -- Pale Modern Ale -- that supports the battle against cancer. Head brewer and founder Justin Hawke (pictured) designed the beer following a meeting with Hard Core Hits Cancer and now donations from sales of the beer -- totaling more than £4,000 -- have been made to Penny Brohn, Macmillan and Cancer Research UK. Tue, 30 May 2017 10:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/05/30/moor-beer-pale-ale-aids-battle-with-cancer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/05/30/moor-beer-pale-ale-aids-battle-with-cancer Sebastien Morvan and Olivier de Brouwer have a mission: to take beer "out of the abbey and into the playground". They are brewing challenging brews at the Brussels Beer Project, packed with hops and often using unusual ingredients. They are involved in collaboration beers in a number of countries, including Britain where they make Babylone at Hackney Brewery with 30% bread. They are also ageing a growing number of beer in oak casks from the wine, cognac and whisky industries. Tue, 23 May 2017 18:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/05/23/belgian-beer-gets-a-makeover-in-brussels https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/05/23/belgian-beer-gets-a-makeover-in-brussels As Charles Wells sells up to concentrate on its estate of pubs, awesome marketing power is in the hands of Greene King, Marston's and Molson Coors. These three giant companies now control 37% of the cask beer sector. But are the family brewers to blame for their decline due to their failure to innovate and produce beers that fit the modern beer scene? Mon, 22 May 2017 16:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/05/22/who-will-be-next-for-the-axe-after-wells https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/05/22/who-will-be-next-for-the-axe-after-wells A special beer using a malting variety and hops both consigned to the grave many years ago have been resurrected by Norfolk brewers Martin Warren (left) from Poppyland Brewery and David Holliday of Norfolk Brewhouse. Working with Crisp Malt and Charles Faram, the major hop merchant, the brewers have made two versions of a beer using Chevallier malt and Ernest hops. The beers will be showcased at Norwich City of Ale from 25 May Sat, 20 May 2017 10:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/05/20/special-beer-is-a-rave-from-the-grave https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/05/20/special-beer-is-a-rave-from-the-grave Norwich's great beer bonanza, City of Ale, returns at the end of May for another great celebration of beer and brewing in Norfolk and its capital city. The brainchild of Dawn Leeder and Phil Cutter, City of Ale is more than a beer festival but is a rolling programme of events in pubs and breweries, with talks and tastings by local brewers and beer writers, including Adrian Tierney-Jones and Roger Protz Wed, 17 May 2017 13:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/05/17/hail-to-the-ale-in-major-norwich-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/05/17/hail-to-the-ale-in-major-norwich-fest Farr Brew in Hertfordshire has launched a special beer to celebrate the life of Joe "Chief" Paul, a great supporter of charities and community groups, who died tragically young. 10% of the price of a pint of Chief Jester will go to the Rennie Hospice. The beer was launched at the Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans, Britain's oldest pub, and is available at other pubs in the county. Pictured at Matt Elvidge (left) and Nick Farr from the brewery with Ros Lee of the Rennie Hospice Fri, 12 May 2017 18:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/05/12/special-beer-celebrates-charity-hero https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/05/12/special-beer-celebrates-charity-hero Cumbrian Legendary Ales is content to remain a small brewery supplying its locality with cask ales, including the award-winning Loweswater Gold. But Hawkshead is forging ahead with plans to expand sales following a deal with a large drinks distribution company to sell bottles and cans internationally. But founder Alex Brodie stays firmly in charge and there will still be a strong emphasis on draught beer Sun, 07 May 2017 12:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/05/07/in-cumbria-two-breweries-two-visions https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/05/07/in-cumbria-two-breweries-two-visions The Red Lion at Histon near Cambridge is a shrine to good beer, decked out with memorabilia of the hey-day of brewing in the 20th century. But landlord Mark Donachy isn't living in the past as the Red Lion serves a wide selection of cask ales from today's independent breweries, mainly in East Anglia. Not surprisingly, The Red Lion has just been named Pub of the Year by the local branch of CAMRA. Sat, 29 Apr 2017 11:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/04/29/prize-winning-pub-a-shrine-to-good-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/04/29/prize-winning-pub-a-shrine-to-good-beer Brewers celebrated at London's Guildhall as they picked up Gold, Silver and Bronze awards in the International Beer & Cider championship. Pictured are some of the brewers with their trophies. 125 breweries from 21 countries entered the competition, held in Burton-on-Trent, and judges tasted more than 1,000 beers and ciders. Thu, 27 Apr 2017 12:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/27/brewers-win-gold-in-world-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/27/brewers-win-gold-in-world-awards The fourth and biggest Beer Kitchen run by Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn has opened Glasgow's West End and features "tank fresh" beer from its own micro-brewery along with pastel portraits of such celebrities as Peter Capaldi (left), Sean Connery and Adel by local artist Lynn Howarth. There are 17 taps for cask and keg beers and one beer has been aged in Auchentoshan whisky casks. Sun, 23 Apr 2017 12:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/23/on-site-beer-celebrities-in-glasgow-bar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/23/on-site-beer-celebrities-in-glasgow-bar London mayor Sadiq Khan -- seen in the Wheatsheaf pub in Tooting -- has teamed with CAMRA to launch a drive to stop the closure of pubs in the capital. A quarter of London's pubs have closed over the past 15 years and the number now stands at 3,615 compared to 4,835 in 2001. The mayor says he is determined to boost the night-time economy in London where pubs play a vital role Thu, 20 Apr 2017 11:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/20/london-mayor-aims-to-halt-pub-closures https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/20/london-mayor-aims-to-halt-pub-closures There's a quiet beer revolution underway in Hungary with some 70 craft breweries bringing choice to a country dominated by global brewers. The driving force is Eleszto -- yeast -- a complex of bars and restaurants that features many craft beers and organises tours of the best bars in the city. There's even cask beer available, the results of a collaboration between the small Hubris brewery in Budapest and Signature Brew in London Tue, 18 Apr 2017 09:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/04/18/craft-beer-is-booming-in-budapest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/04/18/craft-beer-is-booming-in-budapest Meantime Brewery in south London has responded to demand from drinkers and retailers and has launched three of its key beers -- London Pale Ale, London Lager and Yakima Red -- in cans. The brewery feels that canning technology has improved to such an extent that canned beers now taste as fresh as draught. The beers will be available in Co-op stores and other retailers are being lined up Thu, 06 Apr 2017 11:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/06/now-you-can-get-canned-with-meantime https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/06/now-you-can-get-canned-with-meantime A run-down pub in London's King's Cross that became a strip club, has walked away with CAMRA's top design award after a major refurbishment that has restored the pub to its early 20th-century, Grade II glory. Other awards have gone to the Tim Bobbin in Burnley and Ship Inn in Sheffield. The CAMRA awards are run jointly with English Heritage Wed, 05 Apr 2017 11:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/05/former-strip-pub-wins-top-design-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/04/05/former-strip-pub-wins-top-design-award Siren Craft Brew in leafy Berkshire is pushing back the frontiers of beer-making with a range of challenging brews. some of which are aged in oak casks. Its annual vintage is Maiden, aged in oak but topped up each year with fresh beer, following the Spanish sherry solera system. As well as IPA and oatmeal stout, Siren also conducts collaboration brews with the likes of Cigar City in Florida. Pictured in the cask storehouse are (left to right) founder Darron Anley with brewers Kyle Larsen and Steve Hoile Wed, 29 Mar 2017 17:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/03/29/siren-voices-herald-groundbreaking-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/03/29/siren-voices-herald-groundbreaking-beers Micropubs are a new force on the drinking scene. While traditional pubs close, "pop-up pubs" are filling the gap, opening in a wide variety of empty oultets. Mat Hardy and Dan Murray have trawled the country to list all known micros but it's a shame their work is spoiled by a bilious introduction by Martyn Hillier who uses his space to attack CAMRA Sun, 26 Mar 2017 15:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/03/26/pop-up-pubs-get-guide-book-boost https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2017/03/26/pop-up-pubs-get-guide-book-boost The Campaign for Real Ale has hailed a government decision to plug a loophole in planning law that will stop pubs being demolished or converted to other use without first getting planning permission. CAMRA chief executive Tim Page (pictured) says this is a victory for campaigners and for much-loved community pubs Sat, 25 Mar 2017 11:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/25/camra-hails-plugging-pubs-loophole https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/25/camra-hails-plugging-pubs-loophole Four regular beers from the Chiltern Brewery have been officially designated "gluten free" -- good news for beer lovers who have an intolerance to gluten, which mainly comes from wheat. Chiltern near Wendover is the oldest independent brewery in Buckinghamshire and is run by the Jenkinson family, who also manage the historic King's Head pub in Aylesbury Thu, 23 Mar 2017 13:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/23/chiltern-brings-relief-for-gluten-sufferers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/23/chiltern-brings-relief-for-gluten-sufferers Colin Dexter, who died on 21 March, had a life-long love affair with good beer, starting in his home town of Stamford. He took that love with him to Oxford and it helped inspire his great creation, Inspector Morse, In this interview with Roger Protz in May 1990, Dexter spoke of his favourite beers and the crime writers he admires. Wed, 22 Mar 2017 15:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/03/22/colin-dexter-on-morse-murder-and-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/03/22/colin-dexter-on-morse-murder-and-beer The Mermaid in St Albans, an unspoilt bare-boards cottage-style pub, has been named both pub of the year and cider pub of the year by the South Herts branch of CAMRA. The Mermaid will now go forward to the next round of CAMRA's national pub of the year competition. Runner up was another St Albans pub, the legendary Fighting Cocks Mon, 20 Mar 2017 20:03:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/20/mermaid-in-the-swim-with-top-pub-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/20/mermaid-in-the-swim-with-top-pub-award London brewery Fourpure stormed to victory in the brewery awards competition staged by SIBA at its annual BeerX in Sheffield. Fourpure was named Brewery of the Year and also won the prestigious Business Innovation Award for its sensory staff training scheme. Members of the Fourpure team are seen receiving their awards from SIBA chairman Buster Grant (second left) Mon, 20 Mar 2017 18:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/20/fourpure-goes-for-gold-at-siba-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/20/fourpure-goes-for-gold-at-siba-awards Some of Britain's top award-winning pubs face massive hikes in rates when the new system kicks in in April, according to the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). The Baum in Rochdale, CAMRA's National Pub of the Year in 2012 (pictured,) will see its rateable value rise by 377% while the 2015 winner of the award, the Sandford Park in Cheltenham, faces a rates rise of 181%. CAMRA is calling on Chancellor Philip Hammond to review the increases in this week's Budget Sun, 05 Mar 2017 11:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/05/top-pubs-face-massive-rates-hike https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/05/top-pubs-face-massive-rates-hike The George & Dragon in Yorkshire's Swaledale, named CAMRA's National Pub of the Year for 2017, is to add its own micro-brewery. The pub closed in 2008 but was rescued by the local community. A co-operative raised the money to buy back and refurbish the pub, which was re-opened in 2014 by former local MP William Hague, who is one of the shareholders. Landlord Stuart Miller (pictured) buys most of his beers from Yorkshire breweries Fri, 03 Mar 2017 08:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/03/award-winning-pub-to-add-own-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/03/award-winning-pub-to-add-own-brewery Renowned Yorkshire family brewer Timothy Taylor has added a blond beer, Knowle Spring, to its range of cask beers. The brewery has won an array of awards for its Landlord and Boltmaker bitters and has been encouraged by drinkers to add a lighter beer. Knowle Spring was launched at the Bradford Beer Festival with head brewer Andy Leman (left) and senior brewer Tom Slack in attendance. Thu, 02 Mar 2017 11:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/02/new-tim-taylor-beer-has-spring-in-its-step https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/03/02/new-tim-taylor-beer-has-spring-in-its-step Publicans packed a meeting in St Albans this week to launch a petition to halt punitive rises in business rates. St Albans with 50 pubs has the biggest number of any town or city in the country -- but 20 could close unless rate increases are halted. The meeting was convened by Sean Hughes (pictured) who runs the 15th century Boot pub Fri, 24 Feb 2017 14:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/02/24/rates-ticking-time-bomb-for-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/02/24/rates-ticking-time-bomb-for-pubs Moor Beer's legendary strong ale Old Freddy Walker has won the prestigious Champion Winter Alof Britain title at CAMRA's National Winter Ales festival in Norwich. The silver award went to Sulwath Brewery in Scotland for Black Galloway and the bronze was awarded to Magic Rock for Dark Arts Wed, 22 Feb 2017 08:07:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/22/old-freddy-walks-to-festival-glory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/22/old-freddy-walks-to-festival-glory Craft Beer Rising returns to London for the fifth year running with 170 breweries lining up to present their brews to the crowds. Goose Island will feature a virtual reality tour of its hop farm and brewery in the U.S. while Fuller's will unveil a Black IPA and Sierra Nevada from California will have a bar dedicated to its beers. Fri, 17 Feb 2017 08:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/17/craft-beer-bonanza-back-in-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/17/craft-beer-bonanza-back-in-london Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewer, based in the heart of the Kent hop fields, will unveil a special video dedicated to hops during Craft Beer Rising in London on 23-26 February. The video will feature Tony Redsell, the famous Kent hop farmer, and is shot at Parsonage Farm near Faversham Thu, 16 Feb 2017 15:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/16/hops-to-get-boost-at-major-beer-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/16/hops-to-get-boost-at-major-beer-fest Daisy Claeys, who ran the legendary Brugs Beertje bar in Bruges for more than 30 years, was honoured on 3 February by members of the British Guild of Beer Writers who presented her with an engaved tankard that thanked her for inspiring "a generation of British beer writers". Roger Protz handed the tankard to Daisy at the Siphon in Damme at the Smaak Down beer tasting organised by Breandan Kearney, seen in Matthew Curtis's photo Mon, 06 Feb 2017 09:14:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/06/british-beer-writers-honour-daisy-claeys https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/02/06/british-beer-writers-honour-daisy-claeys Alex Brodie, founder of Hawkshead Brewery in Cumbria, brewed more than one million litres in 2016 -- and 65% of the total was cask beer. He describes himself as "bullish about cask" and plans a rolling programme of session beers for 2017. He welcomes new wave young brewers but says cask ale is unique to Britain and needs to be treasured Mon, 30 Jan 2017 08:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/01/30/hawkshead-s-brodie-bullish-about-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2017/01/30/hawkshead-s-brodie-bullish-about-cask Margot James, Minister for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, told the House of Commons on 26 January there was clear evidence some pub companies were flouting the new Pubs Code and preventing tenants from applying for the Market Rent Only option that would allow them to have a wider choice of beer. A debate on the code resulted in MPs voting to re-open the appointments process for controversial Pubs Code Adjudicator Paul Newby (pictured) Sun, 29 Jan 2017 11:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/01/29/minister-pubcos-are-flouting-the-code https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/01/29/minister-pubcos-are-flouting-the-code Paul Nunny of Cask Marque says it's time drinkers stopped knocking cask beer and spoke up about its values and success. He adds that both price and quality need to be addressed and points out that while cask beer is usually the cheapest beer on the bar it's a premium product. Thu, 26 Jan 2017 10:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2017/01/26/nunny-time-to-stop-knocking-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2017/01/26/nunny-time-to-stop-knocking-cask-ale Unesco has declared that Belgian beer is a 'treasure of humanity'. Quite right -- but perhaps the organisation would care to take a look at the history and traditions of British beer. Porter and stout in the 18th century and IPA a century later transformed brewing on a world scale. Pictured: a White Shield delivery van at the National Brewery Centre in Burton, a powerful link to Victorian brewing Wed, 25 Jan 2017 17:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/01/25/unesco-take-a-look-at-britain-s-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/01/25/unesco-take-a-look-at-britain-s-heritage Leading independent brewer Greene King will launch two of its top beers -- IPA and Old Speckled Hen -- in gluten free form in early February. The launch is in response to research that shows 32% of British people eat and drink "free from" products while 2% of the population has a gluten allergy and 1% are coeliac Mon, 23 Jan 2017 11:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/01/23/top-greene-king-beers-go-gluten-free https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2017/01/23/top-greene-king-beers-go-gluten-free Leading beer writer Pete Brown, writing in the Morning Advertiser, says "it's time to say no to cask". He cites too many pubs serving cask beer in poor condition -- but is this a true picture of the state of beer in pubs with Cask Marque judging beer quality? Mon, 16 Jan 2017 19:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/01/16/brown-s-cask-attack-is-wide-of-the-mark https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2017/01/16/brown-s-cask-attack-is-wide-of-the-mark Little Valley Brewery in Yorkshire has worked with the Vegan Society to draw up a list of vegan-friendly beers to help celebrate Veganuary or Vegan January. The beers avoid animal or dairy ingredients as well as isinglass finings made from fish bladders Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/30/yorkshire-brewery-in-boost-for-vegan-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/30/yorkshire-brewery-in-boost-for-vegan-beer The Co-Op group is adding 50 craft beers from local suppliers to its convenience stores across the country as part of its campaign to support and boost small producers of food and drink. Pictured: Rich Anstell of Glamorgan Brewery, one of the chosen suppliers Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/30/co-op-to-add-50-craft-beers-to-its-stores https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/30/co-op-to-add-50-craft-beers-to-its-stores CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- has called on the government to give greater protection to pubs as it salutes the fact that 2,000 pubs now have Asset of Community Value status. But to stop pubs being demolished or converted, CAMRA wants more planning support. Pictured: locals in Sheffield with MP Nick Clegg supporting the Plough, Sandygate, which Sainsbury's wants to convert to a retail outlet Tue, 27 Dec 2016 12:03:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/27/camra-calls-for-greater-pub-protection https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/27/camra-calls-for-greater-pub-protection The National Theatre's production of Peter Pan for the holiday period will be boosted by a special beer, Tink's Tiny Batch, that will be available in The Understudy pub on the South Bank and the theatre's bars and restaurants. The beer is brewed by Hammerton's in Islington and is based on its N1 American-style pale ale with the addition of Citra hops. Tue, 20 Dec 2016 10:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/20/peter-pan-flies-high-with-magic-pale-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/20/peter-pan-flies-high-with-magic-pale-ale Maigret returns to TV on Christmas day and two more films are planned with Rowan Atkinson playing the famous French detective. Penguin Books is relaunching the whole Maigret series of novels and his creator Georges Simenon, in an interview with the Toronto Star in 1953, explained why a Parisian policeman preferred beer to wine Mon, 19 Dec 2016 11:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/12/19/why-inspector-maigret-drinks-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/12/19/why-inspector-maigret-drinks-beer After many months of consulting its 183,000 members, CAMRA's revitalisation team has recommended a softening of the campaign's attitude to modern "craft keg" beers, which should be made available at beer festivals. The proposals, which will be discussed at annual meetings in 2017 and 2018, also call for greater support for tradtional cider and places community pubs at the heart of the campaign's work. Thu, 15 Dec 2016 11:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/15/camra-calls-for-new-direction-on-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/15/camra-calls-for-new-direction-on-beer Veteran pubs campaigner Mark Dodds is back doing what he enjoys best --- pulling pints in a pub. After a long losing and bruising battle with pub companies in London, he is back in the North-east, reviving the fortunes of the Brown Bear in Berwick. He is also planning to raise crowd funding money to help save other community locals Sun, 11 Dec 2016 16:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/12/11/mark-dodds-is-back-pulling-pints https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/12/11/mark-dodds-is-back-pulling-pints There are now more than 5,000 craft breweries in the United States and their sales go on booming -- up 8% over the past year. IPA now accounts for 25% of craft beer sales -- but golden ales, Pilsners and pale lagers were up 33%. Exports are worth $116m. This growth is against a background of the rise of AB InBev, the world's global brewer, which is two and half times the size of the total US beer market. Tue, 06 Dec 2016 19:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/06/us-craft-breweries-pass-5-000-mark https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/12/06/us-craft-breweries-pass-5-000-mark Belgian beer is no longer living in the past. Plans are under way to convert the Bourse -- the Stock Exchange -- in Brussels into the Belgian Beer Palace that will offer visitors interactive displays about the country's vast range of beer. And nearby the Brussels Beer Project says "leave the abbey" and is brewing new styles in collaboration with brewers in other European countries: including Anspach & Hobday (pictured) from London Thu, 01 Dec 2016 09:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/12/01/belgian-beer-looks-to-the-future https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/12/01/belgian-beer-looks-to-the-future Two German economists track the frightening rise of Mega Brewer AB InBev, which following its takeover of SABMiller now controls 30% of world beer production. The authors describe the ruthless manner in which the global giant slashes costs by closing breweries and axeing jobs and brands. and it is now turning its attention to the craft beer sector... Sat, 26 Nov 2016 09:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/11/26/frightening-rise-of-mega-brew https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/11/26/frightening-rise-of-mega-brew Oddbins No 8, the latest in the group's house beers, has a Belgian touch, brewed with a yeast strain that originated in the Trappist Orval monastery. Oak Smoked Blonde is brewed by Anspach & Hobday in Bermondsey, London, and uses smoked wheat along with barley malt. Tue, 22 Nov 2016 11:55:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/11/22/new-oddbins-beer-has-belgian-influence https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/11/22/new-oddbins-beer-has-belgian-influence Sheffield pubgoers plan to stall an attempt by Enterprise Inns to sell the Cherry Tree pub to the Co-op, which will turn it into a retail outlet. Residents, backed by the local branch of CAMRA, plan to apply for Asset of Community Value status for the pub, which if granted will give them six months to find an alternative buyer. Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/11/21/residents-fight-to-save-sheffield-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/11/21/residents-fight-to-save-sheffield-pub Beer aficionados will have the opportunity to taste a special IPA at UBREW on 24 November, the result of a collaboration between the community brewer and Roger Protz. The beer is based on Bass recipes from the 19th century and is a new version of an IPA launched at the White Horse, Parson's Green, in 1993 that helped kick-start the IPA revival. Pictured are Protz (left) and brewer Stu Sewell Mon, 14 Nov 2016 09:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/11/14/taste-the-ipa-that-launched-the-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/11/14/taste-the-ipa-that-launched-the-revival National brewer Marston's is spending £1 million on rebranding some of its key brands. It says it needs to reach out to new and younger drinkers but will such curious names as Saddle Tank and Pearl Jet achieve the aim? And why is iconic Pedigree pale ale now called amber ale? Wed, 02 Nov 2016 15:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2016/11/02/marston-s-a-curious-rebranding https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2016/11/02/marston-s-a-curious-rebranding Pioneering Burton brewers Bruce Wilkinson and Geoff Mumford are calling it a day and putting their Burton Bridge Brewery up for sale. They both worked for Ind Coope before opening their own brewery and one of their last acts was to bring Draught Burton Ale back to its native town. They are determined Burton Bridge will be sold only to someone who shares their belief in traditional ales Wed, 02 Nov 2016 09:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/11/02/bruce-geoff-gone-for-a-burton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/11/02/bruce-geoff-gone-for-a-burton Community brewery UBREW in south London, where home-brewers can design and make their own beers, is now launching its own range of commercial beer with a five-barrel kit. UBREW opened with crowd funding backing in 2015, the brainchild of keen home-brewers Matt Denham and Wilf Horsfall. Their first beers are in bottle format but may be followed by cans and draught. Thu, 27 Oct 2016 10:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/27/ubrew-on-the-move-with-new-beer-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/27/ubrew-on-the-move-with-new-beer-range National brewer Marston's has invested in Hayle Farm in Kent to expand production of Sovereign hops. Hops have been grown at the farm for some 400 years and land used to graze sheep has been cleared to grow 30 rows of new hops. Sovereign is used in a number of Marston's beers as a bittering hop and will also be used for trial brews Mon, 24 Oct 2016 09:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/24/marston-s-boost-for-ancient-kent-hop-farm https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/24/marston-s-boost-for-ancient-kent-hop-farm Audit Ale was once consumed in vast quantities at college feasts in Oxford and Cambridge to mark the annual settlement of rents from college land and farms. The style has been revived by Lacons and Westerham breweries and now Titanic and White Horse breweries have collaborated to brew a version of Audit ale that will be aged until next April Tue, 18 Oct 2016 20:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/10/18/audit-ale-taking-account-of-history https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/10/18/audit-ale-taking-account-of-history New research records a 12% increase in the number of UK beer brands as new craft breweries come into operation. But some of the increase is down to global brewers moving into the craft sector and supermarkets buying their discounted brands Mon, 17 Oct 2016 08:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/17/big-jump-in-new-beer-brands https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/17/big-jump-in-new-beer-brands Pictured are BrewDog founders James Watt and Martin Dickie, both now known as Elvis. They changed their first names when the Elvis Presley Estate in the U.S. threatened legal action when BrewDog launched a beer called Elvis Juice, an IPA infused with oranges and grapefruit. BrewDog is building a brewery in the U.S. and the two new Elvises are keen to make their mark there with Elvis Juice. Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/07/brewdog-all-shook-up-over-elvis https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/10/07/brewdog-all-shook-up-over-elvis Achouffe brewery in the Belgian Ardennes has come a long way from its launch in 1982 with second-hand vessels on a farm. It has become world-famous as a result of its gnome logo: founder Chris Bauweraerts is seen with one his gnomes. The brewery is now part of the Duvel Moortgat group, which exports the beers to more than 20 countries and where it has created great interest with the first-ever Belgian IPA. Tue, 04 Oct 2016 12:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/10/04/chouffe-where-beer-is-gnome-from-home https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/10/04/chouffe-where-beer-is-gnome-from-home Nicholsons 80 pubs are staging Beer Showcase until mid-October, with 139 beers from many cask and craft breweries throughout the country offering their beers. They will be backed by a number of celebrities, including Tony Hadley and Al Murray, the Pub Landlord, while brewers will give talks about the brewing process Fri, 23 Sep 2016 09:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/09/23/nicholson-s-autumn-beer-jamboree https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/09/23/nicholson-s-autumn-beer-jamboree The 2017 Cask Report, edited by Sophie Atherton, says more and more consumers are switching to real ale and are demanding greater information about how beer is brewed and the ingredients used. They also want tasting notes displayed in pubs so they can help choose the beers they prefer. To help consumers, Cask Marque, publisher of the Cask Report, is launching the Cask Finder app to give more information to drinkers Wed, 21 Sep 2016 15:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/09/21/cask-beer-it-s-the-talk-of-the-town https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/09/21/cask-beer-it-s-the-talk-of-the-town Tim Hampson's 101 Beer Days Out is a treat for beer and pub lovers, taking you on a tour of Britain and encompassing not only great pubs, but breweries, museums and hop festivals too. It's proof that beer drinking and brewing are deeply rooted in Britain's way of life Wed, 21 Sep 2016 13:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/09/21/tim-s-grand-tour-of-bibulous-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/09/21/tim-s-grand-tour-of-bibulous-britain The legendary barley wine Thomas Hardy's Ale, which disappeared when first Eldridge Pope's brewery closed and then O'Hanlon's brewery dropped the beer, has been restored...in Italy. Sandro and Michele Vecchiato of Interbrau bought the brand and it's now brewed for them by Meantime in London. It was launched in Milan but Interbrau plan to make it available in both the UK and the U.S. Sun, 18 Sep 2016 17:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/09/18/thomas-hardy-s-ale-return-of-the-native https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/09/18/thomas-hardy-s-ale-return-of-the-native In just five short years, Logan Plant has moved from his kitchen to a 40,000 barrel-a-year plant in Tottenham, North London -- and he's already planning to expand. Logan comes from the Black Country where his father, Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin fame, introduced him to the delights of Batham's and Holden's ales. Now he's entranced with West Coast pale ales from the U.S. and brews a range of IPAs, including the outstanding Bloody Ell Sun, 04 Sep 2016 19:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/09/04/tottenham-hails-beavertown-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/09/04/tottenham-hails-beavertown-ales Geoff Brandwood sings the praises of Britain's pubs with interiors of historic importance. As well as opulent pubs in major cities, the book also details simple ale houses built to refresh working people. The book is not only a joy to read but is also a call to arms to spare no effort in supporting our great pubs, such as the Crown in Liverpool. Sat, 27 Aug 2016 11:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/08/27/big-boost-for-britain-s-pub-glory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/08/27/big-boost-for-britain-s-pub-glory In The Pub, Pete Brown has written a lyrical love song to a great British institution, in all its manifestations, from ancient ale house to Victorian gin palace and modern micro-pub. He traces the history of the pub and pub names and lists hostelries of all shapes and sizes united by good beer. Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/08/18/brown-to-the-defence-of-british-boozers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/08/18/brown-to-the-defence-of-british-boozers An evening of fine vegetarian food at Salon in Brixton was highlighted by beers supplied by the Brewers Association from the United States. The organisation takes beer-and-food matching sufficiently seriously to employ a resident chef, Adam Dulye. Five courses were matched with beers ranging from saison to gose, IPA, Alt and Old Ale Sat, 13 Aug 2016 12:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/08/13/us-beer-brightens-brixton-food-scene https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/08/13/us-beer-brightens-brixton-food-scene Vanilla Stout brewed by Bingham's Brewery in Berkshire won the prestigious Champion Beer of Britain award at the Great British Beer Festival on 9 August. It's the first time in the history of the competition that a "Speciality Beer" -- using additions to malt and hops -- has won the top award. Runner up was Old Dairy for its Snow Top, with bronze going to Tring Brewery for Death and Glory. Pictured: Chris Bingham (right) accepting his trophy from CAMRA chairman Colin Valentine. Wed, 10 Aug 2016 05:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/08/10/vanilla-stout-scoops-champion-beer-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/08/10/vanilla-stout-scoops-champion-beer-award Lewis Hazelwood-Horner will have an exhibition depicting working breweries and London pubs at Mall Galleries in central London on 19 and 24 September. His work is the result of residencies in a number of breweries and the paintings will show all stages of the brewing practice. The paintings also show hop farms in Kent and the breweries involved include Harvey's, Howling Hops, Redemption, Truman and Kernel. Thu, 04 Aug 2016 11:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/08/04/artist-depicts-london-pubs-and-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/08/04/artist-depicts-london-pubs-and-brewing The Great British Beer Festival, staged by CAMRA, is one of the world's top festivals and offers some of the best choice. 900 beers will include British cask ales plus brews from the United States and mainland Europe. The festival at London Olympia from 9-13 August will also include the Champion Beer of Britain competition while top experts will present tutored talks every day. Sun, 31 Jul 2016 19:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/31/sharpen-your-tastebuds-for-gbbf-delights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/31/sharpen-your-tastebuds-for-gbbf-delights Joe Stange, an American journalist from Missouri, is based in Berlin and writes with Tim Webb the Good Beer Guide Belgium. It was while he was working as a freelance in Brussels that he came across Belgian beer and started a journey that led to a Brussels beer guide and now co-author of the Belgian book. He calls himself a "beer conservationist" and is a great defender of European styles. He is critical of American "sours" that discredit the true Lambic tradition Sat, 30 Jul 2016 14:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/07/30/joe-stange-the-accidental-beer-writer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/07/30/joe-stange-the-accidental-beer-writer Greene King has launched a special beer to commemorate football legend Bobby Moore, who captained the England team in 1966 that won the World Cup. The beer is 4.2% to mark the score in the final match against West Germany -- and the ball did cross the line! Thu, 28 Jul 2016 08:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/28/beer-salutes-legend-of-1966 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/28/beer-salutes-legend-of-1966 Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn, famous for its oak-aged beers, has placed a bottle of its strong, bottle-conditioned Vintage Ale in a time capsule for drinking in 100 years times. I&G founder Dougal Sharp says the beer will continue to age in bottle and is likely to taste very different when opened -- though he admits he is unlikely to be around for the tasting. Earlier this year, I&G bought the Inveralmond Brewery in Perth to increase production of its beer range Tue, 26 Jul 2016 08:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/26/i-g-lays-down-an-ale-for-posterity https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/26/i-g-lays-down-an-ale-for-posterity Pub campaigners in Surrey are battling to save the Cambridge Hotel from being sold to a property developer. It's the last pub standing on London Road, Camberley, where 16 pubs once stood. Members of the Surrey Hants Borders branch of CAMRA (pictured) are urging the local council to give the pub Asset of Community Value status that would allow the local community to attempt to raise funds to buy the pub Wed, 20 Jul 2016 20:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/20/fight-to-save-last-pub-on-busy-high-street https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/20/fight-to-save-last-pub-on-busy-high-street Figures produced by CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- show that pub closures have fallen from 27 to 21 a week. The campaign says this is due to vigorous work at grassroots level (pictured) to save pubs, supported by the government's freeze on beer duty. But rural and suburban pubs are still at the sharp end of closures as new openings bring respite to the high streets Thu, 14 Jul 2016 07:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/14/cheer-as-pub-closure-rate-declines https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/14/cheer-as-pub-closure-rate-declines Exmoor Gold was meant to be one-off brew but it sparked a beer revolution in Britain 30 years ago. Other brewers rushed to make similar beers and Golden Ale is now a major British beer style. Jonathan Price (pictured) owns Exmoor Ales in Somerset and he was joined by local CAMRA members to celebrate the beer's 30th anniversary. Wed, 13 Jul 2016 08:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/13/going-for-gold-exmoor-toasts-30-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/13/going-for-gold-exmoor-toasts-30-years Oakham Brewery in Peterborough has swooped on the London pub scene with its award-winning Green Devil IPA. The beer, promoted on cabs, will be delivered fresh and direct from the brewery and will be available in outlets that can sign up to the Oakademy scheme that gives publicans direct access to all the brewery's beers Sun, 03 Jul 2016 12:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/03/taxi-oakham-ipa-takes-a-cab-to-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/03/taxi-oakham-ipa-takes-a-cab-to-london Cornish brewer St Austell has bought Bath Ales for an undisclosed sum and has pledged to keep all the Bath beers -- including Gem and Barnsey -- in production. The deal was celebrated on 1 July by James Staughton on St Austell (left) and Roger Jones of Bath Ales Fri, 01 Jul 2016 10:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/01/cornish-brewer-swoops-to-buy-bath-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/07/01/cornish-brewer-swoops-to-buy-bath-ales Journalist and beer sommelier Sophie Atherton is the new editor of the annual Cask Report that traces the growth of the real ale sector. The statistics and analysis in the report are vital for brewers, retailers and drinkers in a fast-changing beer scene, with cask expected to grow to 20% of the total draught sector Wed, 29 Jun 2016 19:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/29/sophie-takes-the-reins-as-cask-beer-booms https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/29/sophie-takes-the-reins-as-cask-beer-booms Three young Americans with a love of craft beer have introduced Berliners to the extravaganzas of IPAs bursting with hop character. David Spengler, Tom Crozier and Matthew Walthall (pictured left to right) arrived in the German capital by different routes but were united by their love of craft beers, IPAs in particular. Now drinkers are pounding the pavement to get to their Vagabund brewpub in the Wedding district to sample the joys of IPA and Imperial IPA Mon, 27 Jun 2016 18:32:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/06/27/american-hoppy-ipas-bounce-into-berlin https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/06/27/american-hoppy-ipas-bounce-into-berlin Stone Brewing of California, one of the leading American craft breweries, is opening a brewery, restaurant and beer garden in Berlin on the site of a former gas works. The aim is to transport fresh beer to all parts of Europe rather than importing them from the US. Founder Greg Koch says he chose Berlin because of its blossoming craft beer culture and says most of his beers will meet the demands of the German Beer Purity Law Thu, 23 Jun 2016 11:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/23/brewer-leaves-no-stone-unturned-in-berlin https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/23/brewer-leaves-no-stone-unturned-in-berlin Sour beers from the Bavik brewery in Belgium are based on a unique blonde base beer known as the Mother Beer that is used to blend and make an Old Brown and a Cherry Beer. The Aged Pale was never released for public consumption until in the 1990s beer writer Michael Jackson appealed to the De Brabandere family to make it available. It has gone on to win many world awards Tue, 14 Jun 2016 20:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/14/unique-belgian-sour-beers-hit-the-uk https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/14/unique-belgian-sour-beers-hit-the-uk Freedom Brewery in Staffordshire, best-known for its lager beers, is launching its first-ever pale ale -- in prototype form. It will ask drinkers to vote, using ballot papers in outlets or via the brewery's website, to comment on the beer and those comments will be used to re-launch the beer in September Wed, 08 Jun 2016 19:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/08/brewery-gives-freedom-to-choose-pale-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/08/brewery-gives-freedom-to-choose-pale-ale Rob Lovatt (pictured left) and Garrett Oliver have collaborated to produce a beer aged in Bourbon barrels and using lees or sediment from Herefordshire cider to allow wild yeasts to create further fermentation. The resulting beer -- with cider, wine and whisky notes -- is called Serpent and is a fascinating collaboration between Thornbridge Brewery in Derbyshire and Brooklyn Brewery in New York City Fri, 03 Jun 2016 19:37:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/03/serpent-bridging-the-beer-and-cider-divide https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/06/03/serpent-bridging-the-beer-and-cider-divide There are fears that tenants of giant national pubcos will be denied the right to apply for the Market Rent Only option following the government's decision to withdraw its new pubs code. The code, due to come into effect on 26 May, had "drafting errors". The delay means that pubcos can now impose rent increases with tenants having no right to apply for MRO. In one case, Trish Mason, who runs the Millwright Arms in Warwick, has been told by Punch Taverns that her rent will rise by 40%. Sun, 29 May 2016 13:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/29/pub-tenants-hit-by-delay-to-new-code https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/29/pub-tenants-hit-by-delay-to-new-code Beer Day Britain is back for the second year running on 15 June. Organised by Jane Peyton, 15 June will see a national celebration of our national drink. There will be special events staged in pubs and breweries as drinkers are encouraged to raise a glass to good old British beer. Jane has even penned an Anthem to Beer that she invites all beer lovers to sing on the day Sat, 21 May 2016 10:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/21/wave-the-flag-for-british-beer-on-15-june https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/21/wave-the-flag-for-british-beer-on-15-june The new "safe drinking"guidelines of 14 units per week for both men and women are not only bad science but have no scientific validity at all, says Paul Chase, who has studied alcohol policies for many years. The Chief Medical Officer only listened to bodies with a long track record of opposition to alcohol, including the temperance movement, and ignored evidence that moderate consumption can be beneficial Tue, 17 May 2016 14:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2016/05/17/new-safe-drinking-limits-are-bad-science https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2016/05/17/new-safe-drinking-limits-are-bad-science Hawkshead Brewery in the Lake District, founded by Alex Brodie, has completed a £175,000 expansion programme to boost production to keep pace with the demand for such iconic Cumbrian beers as Lakeland Gold, Windermere Pale, Brodie's Pride and NZPA. Profits have doubled in the past two years and the brewery's success will be celebrated at its 10th anniversary beer festival in July Mon, 16 May 2016 19:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/16/demand-drives-expansion-at-hawkshead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/16/demand-drives-expansion-at-hawkshead Little Valley Brewery in Yorkshire has entered the referendum debate with three beers -- In, Out and IDK -- designed to help British beer drinkers make up their minds on which way to vote on 23 June. The brewery helpfully provides a ballot paper as well as beer. Sun, 15 May 2016 10:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/15/beers-give-a-kick-in-the-ballot-box https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/15/beers-give-a-kick-in-the-ballot-box India Pale Ale stole the show at the World Beer Cup in Philadelphia, with 275 entries for American-style IPAs and 181 for Imperial IPAs. In awards to breweries, the mid-size category was won by Brewery Ommegang in Coopers Town, New York State (pictured), which specialises in Belgian-style beers. There were more than 6,600 beers entered from 1,907 breweries in 55 countries Sat, 07 May 2016 11:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/07/ipas-dominate-world-beer-cup https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/07/ipas-dominate-world-beer-cup Beers that disappeared as long as a century ago in Manchester will be revived by micro-breweries using old recipes from JW Lees and Heginbotham's breweries. The beers will be available during Manchester Beer Week, 10-19 June, and they have been restored with the help of historian Ron Pattinson. The beer week coincides with the charity event Forever Manchester that will have a special pale ale, Ten Boroughs, brewed to help the cause Fri, 06 May 2016 19:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/06/festival-brings-back-lost-manchester-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/05/06/festival-brings-back-lost-manchester-beers Daisy Claeys has run 't Brugs Beertje -- the Little Bruges Bear -- for 30 years and has never sold a drop of Pils in a country dominated by Stella Artois. She sells as many as 300 different beers a year, all from small, independent Belgian breweries. Drinkers from all over the world flock to the small bar that was put on the map in the 1980s by Michael Jackson and Tim Webb Thu, 05 May 2016 08:37:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/05/05/daisy-claeys-30-beer-years-in-bruges https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/05/05/daisy-claeys-30-beer-years-in-bruges Bourgogne des Flandres -- Flemish Burgundy -- is a blend of strong brown ale and lambic beer that was brewed in Bruges until the 1950s. Now Anthony Martin, grandson of the founder of the John Martins group that owns Timmermans, Belgium's oldest lambic brewer, has restored the beer to its city of origin with a new brewery that uses open fermenters in the Flemish farmhouse style Sat, 30 Apr 2016 13:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/04/30/historic-flemish-beer-restored-to-bruges https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/04/30/historic-flemish-beer-restored-to-bruges Restaurants will attract more customers if they serve beer with food, according to the Society of Independent Brewers that speaks for Britain's independent producers. SIBA says one in three people would visit restaurants more often if they served good beer. The organisation is seeking meetings with top restaurateurs to discuss the vast range of beer styles now available in Britain. Wed, 20 Apr 2016 11:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/04/20/restaurants-need-more-bottle-on-the-table https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/04/20/restaurants-need-more-bottle-on-the-table Comedian Jasper Carrott is so outraged by Enterprise Inns' decision to terminate Ayman Zahran's lease at the Red Lion in Claverdon that he has threatened to join a picket line outside the Warwickshire pub and bring his showbiz friends with him. In 2015 Enterprise agreeed to extend Mr Zahran's lease but is now terminating it. A local petition has gained close to 2,000 signatures. Jasper Carrott is pictured outside the pub with Mr Zahran. Sat, 16 Apr 2016 13:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/16/jasper-carrott-threatens-showbiz-picket-at-village-pub-over-landlord-eviction-threat https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/16/jasper-carrott-threatens-showbiz-picket-at-village-pub-over-landlord-eviction-threat Naked Ladies, a golden ale brewed by Twickenham Brewery in London, has seen off stiff competition to win a listing in all Majestic Wine stores for its Naked Ladies. The beer was inspired by statues of water nymphs in a local park. The brewery, founded in 2004, was the first new brewery in the area since the 1920s Wed, 13 Apr 2016 12:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/13/twickers-strips-off-to-win-big-beer-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/13/twickers-strips-off-to-win-big-beer-award Innis & Gunn, pacesetter in the oak-aged beer sector in Scotland, has bought Inveralmond Brewery in Perth as a result of a £3.1 million crowdfunding scheme. The takeover means I&G's founder Dougal Sharp (pictured) can develop an existing site rather than building a new brewery. Thu, 07 Apr 2016 11:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/07/i-g-heads-for-perth-in-inveralmond-deal https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/07/i-g-heads-for-perth-in-inveralmond-deal A local community in Limehouse, East London, is battling to save the Queens Head pub from closure. The Young's pub is thought to be the model for the Queen Vic in Eastenders and was famously visited by the Queen Mother, who was photographed drinking a pint of Young's Special. The pub has been listed as an Asset of Community Value Wed, 06 Apr 2016 13:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/06/battle-royal-to-save-east-end-lively-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/06/battle-royal-to-save-east-end-lively-local Thornbridge, one of Britain's most successful small independent breweries -- famous for its Jaipur IPA -- has announced a £2 million investment plan to enable it to increase production and add a new bottling line. The new plant should be up and running by late summer at its plant in Bakewell in Derbyshire. Pictured are chief finance officer Simon Walkden (left) and head brewer Rob Lovatt Wed, 06 Apr 2016 12:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/06/thornbridge-in-2-million-expansion-drive https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/04/06/thornbridge-in-2-million-expansion-drive David Bruce, famous for his Firkin brewpubs and now chairman of West Berkshire Brewery, has launched a crowdfunding initiative to raise £1.5 miilion to build a new brewery in the Thames Valley. Bruce, seen standing left with his brewery and sales team, plans a new brewery with 10 times the capacity of the existing plant. He has added Renegade craft beers to the existing cask ales Thu, 31 Mar 2016 10:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/03/31/bruce-s-brewery-is-heading-for-the-big-time https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/03/31/bruce-s-brewery-is-heading-for-the-big-time Michael Hardman, one of the founders of the Campaign for Real Ale in the 1970s, has returned to the fray to chair CAMRA's Revitalisation Project that will ask its 180,000 members whether it should remain focused on cask beer or become more inclusive by becoming a consumer movement that represent all beer drinkers. Thu, 31 Mar 2016 08:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/31/camra-embarks-on-overhaul-for-future https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/31/camra-embarks-on-overhaul-for-future Stewart Brewing at Loanhead near Edinburgh moved to a new site to keep up with demand for its beers -- 65% in cask form -- but is now installing new vessels as sales are growing 20% a year. As well as its own range, including Gold, 80 Shilling and IPA, its micro plant (pictured) is used by students at Heriot-Watt University and members of the public to fashion their own brews Mon, 21 Mar 2016 12:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/03/21/drink-stewart-s-beer--or-make-your-own https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/03/21/drink-stewart-s-beer--or-make-your-own Loch Lomond Brewery in Scotland and Waen in Wales have walked away with the top gold and silver awards at the 2016 competition held at the SIBA Beer X in Sheffield Thu, 17 Mar 2016 10:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/17/scots-and-welsh-triumph-in-siba-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/17/scots-and-welsh-triumph-in-siba-awards Belgian brewer Duvel Moortgat has unveiled its latest Duvel Tripel Hop with Czech Saaz and Styrian Goldings blended with a new hop from the Yakima Valley in Washington State in the U.S. that doesn't yet have a name and is labelled Experimental Hop 291 Thu, 17 Mar 2016 09:04:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/17/duvel-s-new-tripel-has-mystery-hop https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/17/duvel-s-new-tripel-has-mystery-hop Empress Ale is designed to complement spicy Asian food and is brewed by Langton Brewery in Leicestershire. The Chiltern Brewery has joined forces with a leading tea company to design Earl Grey IPA while Saltaire has added to its specialist XS range with Belgian Red. Mon, 07 Mar 2016 14:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/07/new-brews-empress-ale-chiltern-earl-grey-ipa-and-saltaire-xs-belgian-red https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/03/07/new-brews-empress-ale-chiltern-earl-grey-ipa-and-saltaire-xs-belgian-red Two degrees courses at Nottingham University's Brewing Science Department is attracting students from big and small breweries as well as people keen to make brewing a career. Research work on the courses includes analysing the best use of water, yeast and hops. Some of the investment in the courses comes from SABMiller and this could be affected by the takeover by AB InBev Fri, 04 Mar 2016 09:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/03/04/beer-gets-the-appliance-of-science https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/03/04/beer-gets-the-appliance-of-science A new beer from Czech brewer Budweiser Budvar uses the age-old method of "krausening" for its new 4% lager. The beer is neither filtered nor pasteurised and has a slight natural haze in the glass as a result of a powerful second fermentation in the brewery's cellars before it is kegged. The beer will be launched on 10 March in pubs in London and Manchester Fri, 26 Feb 2016 10:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/26/budvar-back-to-basics-with-cloudy-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/26/budvar-back-to-basics-with-cloudy-beer Grant Cook (pictured) was on holiday when he put in a bid for a former nightclub in Cheltenham. Three years later, the Sandford Park Alehouse has been named National Pub of the Year by CAMRA, with judges praising the choice of 10 cask beers, the warm welcome and the stylish modern decor in the Grade II-listed building Thu, 25 Feb 2016 09:43:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/25/former-nightclub-crowned-pub-of-year https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/25/former-nightclub-crowned-pub-of-year Cameron's brewery in Hartlepool is bucking the trend. While other family brewers are struggling, the North-east company is building for the future with a traditional tied-house system based on its acquisition of the specialist Head of Steam pub chain. It plans to grow both the pubs and its beer range. Left, the handsome 1970s marble brew house Mon, 22 Feb 2016 09:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/02/22/hartlepool-family-brewer-forges-ahead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/02/22/hartlepool-family-brewer-forges-ahead Woodforde's Brewery in Norfolk has grown impressively to regional status and has won many awards for such brands as Wherry and Headcracker. It was in the forefront of bringing brewing back to the county following brewery closures at the hands of Watneys and Whitbread. Woodforde's has a new head brewer, Belinda Jennings, whio is busily developing new beers Tue, 16 Feb 2016 11:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/02/16/brewery-brings-back-pride-to-norfolk-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/02/16/brewery-brings-back-pride-to-norfolk-beer Feisty Scottish brewer BrewDog has launched a milk stout, Jet Black Heart, that takes a tilt at Diageo, the global drinks group that owns Guinness. The beer was chosen by BrewDog drinkers from a range of possible new brands and founders James Watt and Martin Dickie have taken the opportunity to hit back at Diageo which three years ago attempted to stop BrewDog winning a top award in the Scottish Bar Operator of the Year awards Thu, 11 Feb 2016 13:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/11/brewdog-stout-takes-a-dig-at-diageo https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/11/brewdog-stout-takes-a-dig-at-diageo Hertfordshire brewery Red Squirrel plans to raise £0.5 million through a crowd funding initiative in order to expand its brewery and add additional tap rooms to its current four. The tap rooms allow customers to buy draught and bottled beer and also drink draught in comfortable surroundings. Red Squirrel has won awards from CAMRA and SIBA for its mild, porter and pale ale and needs to add additional brewing kit to keep up with demand for cask and keg beers Sun, 07 Feb 2016 13:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/07/red-squirrel-won-t-say-nuts-to-investors https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/02/07/red-squirrel-won-t-say-nuts-to-investors Annick De Splenter is a member of a Belgian brewing dynasty but she has carved a unique route with her Gruut beers that recall the medieval style of using "botanicals" rather than hops for flavour and bitterness. She has just moved to a new site in the centre of Ghent where beer lovers will be able to use her kit to design their own brews Sun, 31 Jan 2016 10:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/01/31/annick-s-gruut-beer-is-the-spice-of-life https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/01/31/annick-s-gruut-beer-is-the-spice-of-life Breandan Kearney, annointed Beer Writer of the Year by the British Guild of Beer Writers, is an Irishman who has settled in Ghent to write about Belgian beer and has quickly acquired a big following for his forthright views and tastings on his blog Belgian Smaak. He is seen picking up his award at the guild's annual dinner. Fri, 29 Jan 2016 15:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/01/29/breandan-likes-the-smaak-of-belgian-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/01/29/breandan-likes-the-smaak-of-belgian-beer PUB16 is a major exhibition that celebrates the great British pub with exhibitors displaying new trends in food and drink to boost sales and attract customers. It takes place on 9 and 10 February at Kensington Olympia in London. Fri, 29 Jan 2016 10:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/01/29/olympia-fest-backs-the-great-british-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/01/29/olympia-fest-backs-the-great-british-pub David Grant, managing director of Moorhouse's of Burnley -- famous for Pendle Witches Brew -- says the town has fought back from the nightmare of riots in 2001 and now a real community spirit is aiding the brewery to build its sales. But the beer market is changing and the brewery has had to sell three of its six pubs. Grant is critical of Progressive Beer Duty that doesn't help a company of his size Mon, 18 Jan 2016 19:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/01/18/moorhouse-s-in-for-long-haul-in-north-west https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2016/01/18/moorhouse-s-in-for-long-haul-in-north-west Three breweries -- Meantime, Purity and West Berkshire -- are celebrating key moments in their history with special strong ales in 750ml bottles, driven corks and Champagne cradles. Two of the beers -- Purity and West Berkshire -- have been aged in wood while Meantime's IPA was fermented with a Champagne yeast culture Thu, 14 Jan 2016 18:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/01/14/breweries-celebrate-beery-milestones https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2016/01/14/breweries-celebrate-beery-milestones Burton-based Ian Webster has written a fascinating history of Allsopp's and Ind Coope, two breweries that played a pivotal role in the IPA revolution. Both breweries disappeared during the merger mania of the late 20th century but Ian Webster has turned the spotlight on their critical part in Burton's brewing history. Sun, 03 Jan 2016 12:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/01/03/restoring-name-of-great-burton-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2016/01/03/restoring-name-of-great-burton-brewers Major national retailer the Co-op has joined forces with CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- to protect Britain's community locals. The retail group will allow pubs to remain on land where convenience stores are built alongside and it will engage with all local groups when any change of use is considered. The Co-op will also take into account pubs with Asset of Community Value status when building convenience stores alongside Wed, 30 Dec 2015 13:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/30/co-op-agrees-to-back-community-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/30/co-op-agrees-to-back-community-pubs Twelve pub groups campaigning for pubco rerform have joined forces to launch the British Pub Confederation to present a united front in the battle with such national pub-owning companies as Enterprise Inns and Punch Taverns over the beer tie and rents. The new group will be chaired by Greg Mulholland MP, who also heads the Parliamentary Save the Pub Group and who steered the Market Rent Only option through the last parliament. Sun, 20 Dec 2015 18:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/20/mulholland-leads-new-pub-reform-group https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/20/mulholland-leads-new-pub-reform-group Charrington IPA, once a major brand in London, disappeared in the wake of the takeover frenzy of the late 20th century. But now master brewer Steve Wellington has brought the beer back at the William Worthington Brewery in Burton-on-Trent and restored it to its original strength. Steve is seen on the left with brewing colleagues Caroline Horrabin and Martin Hodson Wed, 16 Dec 2015 09:04:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/12/16/cockney-classic-ipa-recreated-in-burton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/12/16/cockney-classic-ipa-recreated-in-burton Nick Miller, chief executive of Meantime, says there was no behind-the-scenes deal when SABMiller bought the South London brewery in May. Miller had been preparing to put Meantime on the market for a year and a half before the SAB takeover in order to pay back the original shareholders who had never received a dividend. But now Meantime is in limbo, put up for sale by new owner AB InBev Fri, 11 Dec 2015 17:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/11/meantime-s-miller-answers-his-critics https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/11/meantime-s-miller-answers-his-critics Glenn Payne, beer ambassador, who died over the weekend of 5/6 December, had a vast knowledge of beer that he shared with fellow beer lovers throughout the world. He was a familiar figure at beer festivals in the United States and judged in beer competitions there. His passion for beer encouraged many to follow in his footsteps and his many friends and colleagues pay tribute to him Thu, 10 Dec 2015 07:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/10/glenn-payne-memories-of-a-beer-man https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/12/10/glenn-payne-memories-of-a-beer-man Pubs can be saved if owners have belief in them and are prepared to invest to attract customers. The Queen Charlotte in Windsor has had a £500,000 investment from Punch and Oak Taverns and offers a warm welcome, a great range of beer and imaginative food. In sharp contrast, Spirit's Baton pub in St Albans, unloved and unwanted by the pubco, is to be demolished, robbing its community of a local Mon, 07 Dec 2015 18:07:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/12/07/one-pub-reopens-another-bites-the-dust https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/12/07/one-pub-reopens-another-bites-the-dust AB InBev is to dispose of the Meantime craft brewery in Greenwich, South London, as part of the deal to take over its former rival SABMiller. SAB bought Meantime in May this year but now it's up for sale again. There's speculation that Molson Coors, Carslberg or Heineken could be interested in building interests in the fast-growing craft beer sector Thu, 03 Dec 2015 18:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/12/03/new-twist-in-the-meantime-soap-opera https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/12/03/new-twist-in-the-meantime-soap-opera Edinburgh's Caledonian Brewery is celebrated for its award-winning Deuchars IPA but it's now expanding its range of beers thanks to the introduction of a small pilot plant called Wee George that, at a cost of £180,000, allows new beers to be trialled and, if successful, are moved to the main brewery. Wee George is run by Ross O'Hara, pictured, a graduate of the local Heriot-Watt University's school of brewing and distilling. Wed, 02 Dec 2015 14:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/12/02/wee-george-boosts-caley-s-beer-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/12/02/wee-george-boosts-caley-s-beer-range Greg Mulholland, the LibDem MP who chairs the Parliamentary Save the Pub Group, says the draft Pub Code put forwared by the government breaches the legislation agreed by parliament before the general election. The code's interpretation of the Market Rent Only option means, he says, that tenants will find it impossible to trigger MRO and go free of the pubco beer tie Mon, 30 Nov 2015 09:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/11/30/mulholland-anger-at-watered-down-mro-that-s-in-defiance-of-will-of-parliament https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/11/30/mulholland-anger-at-watered-down-mro-that-s-in-defiance-of-will-of-parliament E Morse was not only the name of the celebrated fictional detective but was also one member of a brewing family in East Anglia that ran breweries in Norwich, Lowestoft and Swaffham. Author Eric Dore has investigated the Morse story with the dedication of the great detective and brought the brewing story to life Sat, 28 Nov 2015 14:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/11/28/morse-and-beer-solving-an-old-cold-case https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/11/28/morse-and-beer-solving-an-old-cold-case Six Degrees Brewery near Aberdeen, which specialises in Belgian-style beer, has produced a Belgian IPA for Oddbins, with Hallertau Mittelfruh hops added six times during the copper boil. The brewery has also produced two lambic-stytle beers for Oddbins, a straight lambic aged for two years in wood, and Framboise with raspberries added. Mon, 23 Nov 2015 08:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/11/23/belgian-inspired-ipa-heads-to-oddbins https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/11/23/belgian-inspired-ipa-heads-to-oddbins Guinness has sparked controversy and debate following its decision to phase out isinglass finings as a clearing agent in its beer. With as many as 11 million vegetarians in Britain -- Guinness's biggest market -- the brewer is aware of the growing number of people who avoid fish and meat. Now other brewers are looking at alternatives to isinglass -- and the noble hop may be able to help Thu, 19 Nov 2015 10:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/11/19/guinness-puts-an-end-to-fishy-business https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/11/19/guinness-puts-an-end-to-fishy-business Only a handful of British brewers entered beers for the annual Brussels Beer Challenge. More than 1,200 beers came from 30 countries and such great British stryles as IPA, ESB, Porter and Stout went to brewers far from the British Isles. Brewers in the UK are missing a golden opportunity to grow sales abroad. Mon, 09 Nov 2015 13:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/11/09/selling-british-beer-short-on-world-stage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/11/09/selling-british-beer-short-on-world-stage Elgood's elegant Georgian brewery in Wisbech was struggling in the age of micro-breweries and stiff competition from big regionals Adnams and Greene King. But thanks to managing director Belinda Sutton -- representing the fifth generation of the family -- Elgood's is in good shape with a host of new brands, including its own version of Belgian lambic, and a vigorous export policy Thu, 05 Nov 2015 08:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/11/05/elgoods-the-fight-back-in-the-fens https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/11/05/elgoods-the-fight-back-in-the-fens Oakham Brewery has won planning permission to extend capacity at its Peterborough brewery to 61,000 barrels a year and will also make a major sales drive in the London area. Moorhouse's Brewery in Lancashire may move into "micro-pubs" in order to meet increased competition from small craft breweries. Freedom Brewery in Staffordshire has launched three new beers, including a lager version of IPA Fri, 30 Oct 2015 13:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/30/round-up-oakham-to-double-capacity-moorhouse-s-to-build-pub-estate-freedom-launches-new-east-india-pale-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/30/round-up-oakham-to-double-capacity-moorhouse-s-to-build-pub-estate-freedom-launches-new-east-india-pale-lager In his new book, So You Want To Be a Beer Expert?, Jeff Evans takes beer lovers old and new through the history of brewing, how beer is made and the proliferating range of styles now available. It's a book that will inform new drinkers but experienced tipplers will gain much from its pages Mon, 26 Oct 2015 13:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/10/26/how-to-explore-the-brilliant-world-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/10/26/how-to-explore-the-brilliant-world-of-beer Virgin Trains and Rudgate Brewery have joined forces to launch Hop on Board, a beer designed for passengers using the East Coast route from London to Edinburgh via Leeds, York and Newcastle. Virgin expects to sell 55,000 bottles a year of the beer, which comes with the special Hoptimist beer glass that always appears half full Thu, 22 Oct 2015 10:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/22/hop-on-a-train-for-hops-on-a-train https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/22/hop-on-a-train-for-hops-on-a-train Research by Anglia Ruskin University shows that beer drinkers in mainland Europe prefer stronger drinks than their British counterparts. The most popular exported British beer is Halcyon Imperial IPA (7.4%) brewed by Thornbridge, followed by BrewDog's Jack Hammer IPA (7.2%). The favourite continental brew is Westvleteren 12 brewed by Trappist monks. A further Trappist beer from the monks of Rochefort abbey is also popular Wed, 21 Oct 2015 11:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/21/euro-beer-drinkers-prefer-the-strong-stuff https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/21/euro-beer-drinkers-prefer-the-strong-stuff CAMRA chief executive Tim Page stresses that if a pub is given ACV -- Asset of Community Value -- status is doesn't mean the pub can't be sold on as a going concern but would remain a pub. ACV means that pub owners can't turn pubs into flats or other busnesses against the wishes of local communities Mon, 19 Oct 2015 16:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/10/19/acvs-are-badge-of-honour-to-protect-pubs-says-camra-chief-executive-tim-page https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/10/19/acvs-are-badge-of-honour-to-protect-pubs-says-camra-chief-executive-tim-page Pubs have been the centre of community life for centuries in Britain and their role as hubs of society will be celebrated in a series of films by Greene King to be aired this month. Each film has been taken by a publican and will show customers drinking, chatting and enjoying pub life. The pubs include the Hawley Arms in London's Camden, used by many famous showbiz people, and the Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham, believed to be England's oldest pub Mon, 19 Oct 2015 14:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/19/cask-ale-brewer-to-celebrate-pub-s-key-role https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/19/cask-ale-brewer-to-celebrate-pub-s-key-role Canadian beer writer Stephen Beaumont has toured the world in search of both good beer and good food. In a sumptuous delight of a book, he traces the history of beer, its raw materials, the rise and fall of matching beer with food and the 21st century renaissance that sees top chefs organising beer and food pairing and using beer in their dishes Thu, 15 Oct 2015 12:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/10/15/book-that-puts-beer-back-on-the-table https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/10/15/book-that-puts-beer-back-on-the-table SABMiller has finally succumbed to a £68 billion bid from AB InBev and the new merged group will control 30% of world beer production. The deal is aimed primarily at building bigger market share in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe, but successful craft brewers in the west should not sleep easily in their beds. Tue, 13 Oct 2015 14:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/10/13/giant-takeover-passes-its-fizzical https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/10/13/giant-takeover-passes-its-fizzical Brewers in Bristol are busily pushing back the boundaries of beer with Bristol Beer Factory winning awards for its Milk Stout while Moor is challenging tradition by producing unfined beer made without isinglass finings and where Justin Hawke is replacing glass with real ale in cans. Pictured are Sam Burrows (left) and Simon Bartlett at Bristol Beer Factory Fri, 09 Oct 2015 13:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/10/09/bristol-harbours-new-ideas-for-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/10/09/bristol-harbours-new-ideas-for-beer Alan Hinkes has scaled Mount Everest five times and is the only Brit to have climbed all 14 8,000 metre peaks in the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges. When he's not climbing, he enjoys good beer, real ale in particular. He recalls his early drinking, the beer deserts of Newcastle and Scotland in the 1980s, and some of his favourite brews at home and abroad. He's seen here (left) with ranger David Tyson on Great Gable, toasting the Cumbrian peak with a special beer Wed, 07 Oct 2015 17:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/10/07/alan-hinkes-up-hill-down-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/10/07/alan-hinkes-up-hill-down-ale With Kent's Green Hop Festival in full swing, five breweries will run special bus trips on Saturday 10 October that will allow beer lovers to sample a special beer range brewed with hops fresh from the harvest. The festival is the brainchild of Eddie Gadd of Gadds' Brewery who is keen to promote English hops that are under threat from imported varieties Sun, 04 Oct 2015 12:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/04/hop-on-a-bus-to-relish-kent-s-harvest-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/10/04/hop-on-a-bus-to-relish-kent-s-harvest-ales Cask Ale Week, the annual celebration of Britain's iconic beer style, runs until 4 October and this year features scores of beers brewed with Maris Otter, craft brewers' favourite malting barley that has won 16 awards in the annual Champion Beer of Britain competition. The celebrations -- backed by beer talks, tastings and Meet the Brewer events -- will be staged in pubs throughout the country Mon, 28 Sep 2015 12:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/28/cask-ale-week-celebrates-iconic-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/28/cask-ale-week-celebrates-iconic-beer Bristol is enjoying a major revival of good pubs and good beer. The fast-growing Brewhouse & Kitchen chain has a new outlet in the Clifton area while trendy King Street is awash with pubs and bars serving a large range of cask ales and craft keg products. The pubs include the imposing Royal Navy Volunteer Inn, in a "town house" dating from the 17th century Sun, 27 Sep 2015 10:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/27/good-beer-is-all-ship-shape-in-bristol https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/27/good-beer-is-all-ship-shape-in-bristol Cask beer -- real ale -- is on a roll and is offering a lifeline to the pub trade, says Pete Brown in the 2015 edition of the Cask Report. Real ale accounts for 17% of all beer sales and its share of the pub trade is expected to rise to 20% by 2020. The report says cask beer drinkers visit pubs twice as often as other consumers and encourage other people to join them when they go out for a beer Thu, 24 Sep 2015 16:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/24/booming-cask-beer-is-big-boost-for-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/24/booming-cask-beer-is-big-boost-for-pubs With 900 breweries, Italy is enjoying a remarkable beer boom. It's a country without a beer tradition and the inspiration for craft brewers comes from Belgium, Britain and the United States. Fine beers, including from Sardinia (pictured), were on display at a three-day festival in Rome called Fermentazioni while specialist bars in the city add to drinking pleasure Mon, 21 Sep 2015 16:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/21/from-the-high-alps-to-sicily-craft-beer-in-italy-is-booming-with-900-small-breweries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/21/from-the-high-alps-to-sicily-craft-beer-in-italy-is-booming-with-900-small-breweries Maris Otter barley, rescued from oblivion 50 years ago, was celebrated at a special beer festival in Norwich on 17 September. The variety was popular with craft brewers but was dropped by big farmers and maltsters in favour of higher yielding new varieties. But Banhams in Norfolk and Robin Appel in Wiltshire rescued Maris Otter and now it's in great demand with the growing legion of new brewers. Chris Hill of the Eastern Daily Press reports Fri, 18 Sep 2015 17:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/18/the-barley-that-came-back-from-the-dead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/18/the-barley-that-came-back-from-the-dead British breweries have grown by 10% over the past year, the 2016 edition of the CAMRA Good Beer Guide reports. There are now 1,424 breweries in the country and they can draw on 11,000 cask beers to serve to their customers. One of the new entrants to the brewing arena is the Brewhouse & Kitchen chain,offering good food alongside beers made on the premises. In Bristol, Mark Wainwright is seen in his brewhouse Thu, 10 Sep 2015 15:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/britain-s-beer-boom-goes-roaring-on https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/britain-s-beer-boom-goes-roaring-on A growing number of British brewers are "going green" by recycling used ingredients, using solar panels for heat and capturing rain water for cleaning. Several, including Purity in Warwickshire, have developed a series of reed beds where water is purified and returned to the breweries: the reed beds encourage wild life to find habitats. Pictured: brewer Florent Vialan at Purity Thu, 10 Sep 2015 13:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/green-beer-from-britain-s-eco-breweries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/green-beer-from-britain-s-eco-breweries Britain's top 16 regional pubs are named today by CAMRA to coincide with the launch of the 2016 Good Beer Guide. The pubs -- including the Old Poets Corner in Ashover, Derbyshire (pictured) -- have come through a long trail of judging by local CAMRA branches, who choose local and regional pubs. The lucky 16 will now go forward to be judged in the national competition with the National Pub of the Year announced next February Thu, 10 Sep 2015 10:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/top-pubs-jostle-for-national-crown https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/top-pubs-jostle-for-national-crown The new Good Beer Guide reports a growing number of micro or pop-up pubs that offer cask beer at sharp prices and offer drinkers new outlets, using buildings that have often lain empty for years. Martyn Hillier, pictured, started the micro revolution with the Butchers Arms in Herne, Kent, and he expects there will be 200 by the end of the year Thu, 10 Sep 2015 09:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/micros-lead-the-pub-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/09/10/micros-lead-the-pub-revival Pubs are closing not just as a result of changing lifestyle, the smoking ban and cheap supermarket alcohol. Giant pubcos, saddled with crippling debts, are selling pubs to property developers who turn many of them into retail outlets and even knock them to the ground without planning permission. Carol Ross (pictured) runs the Roscoe Head in Liverpool, one of 158 Punch outlets sold to a company that specialises in turning them into convenience stores Wed, 09 Sep 2015 18:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/09/09/why-i-fear-for-the-future-of-the-british-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/09/09/why-i-fear-for-the-future-of-the-british-pub After years in the doldrums following the closure of Friary Meux in the 1960s, there's a major ale revival underway in Surrey. In Farnham, the William Cobbett pub pays homage to the radical writer who championed the cause of ale. Hogs Back Brewery has restored hop growing and the ancient Farnham White Bine variety, while Emily and Miles Stephens (pictured) are brewing in a former farm dairy Sun, 06 Sep 2015 14:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/06/cobbett-would-hail-surrey-s-ale-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/06/cobbett-would-hail-surrey-s-ale-revival Rumours that Harveys of Lewes was stopping production of its Imperial Stout proved to be false -- especially as the beer won two top prizes in August from CAMRA and the World Beer Awards. Far from axing the beer, head brewer Miles Jenner, seen on the left with hop farmer Stuart Highwood, is installing additional equipment to boost production Tue, 01 Sep 2015 18:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/01/ignore-the-rumours-russian-champion-stout-goes-from-strength-to-strength https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/09/01/ignore-the-rumours-russian-champion-stout-goes-from-strength-to-strength Historic England -- formerly English Heritage -- has listed 21 pubs built between the two world wars of the 20th century making they are safe from redevelopment or demolitiion. Several of the pubs are built in the distinctive "Brewers' Tudor" style of the period and include six Truman's pubs in London and surrounding areas. The Black Horse in Birmingham is pictured Fri, 28 Aug 2015 09:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/28/historic-inter-war-pubs-saved-for-nation https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/28/historic-inter-war-pubs-saved-for-nation Punch Taverns, with a debt mountain £1.5 billion, has eased its problems by selling 158 "non-core" pubs for £53.5 million to New River Retail, a group that specialises in turning pubs into convenience stores. The pubs include the award-winning Roscoe Head in Liverpool, which New River says will remain a pub. NRR bought 202 pubs from Marston's in 2013 for £900 million and "is making good progress in converting a number to convenience stores" Mon, 24 Aug 2015 13:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/24/top-liverpool-pub-safe-from-the-axe https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/24/top-liverpool-pub-safe-from-the-axe The second Milano Beer Week will be held in the Italian city from 21-27 September, Maurizio Maestrelli reports. It will showcase beers from the hundreds of craft breweries operating in Italy as well as beers from Britain, the United States and many European countries. It will prove that beer is now firmly rooted in Italy's quest for good food and drink Sun, 23 Aug 2015 17:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/08/23/come-to-milan-city-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/08/23/come-to-milan-city-of-beer Innis & Gunn, the Scottish company famous for its "oak-aged beers" matured in whisky and bourbon casks, has raised £3 million with a beer bond scheme that will enable it to build a state-of-the-art new brewery in South-east Scotland. I&G founder Dougal Sharp says he has been "blown away" by the support for the project Sat, 22 Aug 2015 08:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/22/i-g-hits-target-to-build-scottish-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/22/i-g-hits-target-to-build-scottish-brewery A good way to spend a Saturday is to visit an ancient alehouse on the Romney Marsh in Kent that has been run by the same family for around 100 years and then visit a new brewery producing an excellent range of draught and bottled beers. Doris Jemison, owner of the Red Lion at Snargate, was presented with a special award for being in 30 continuous editions of the Good Beer Guide while Matt Calais (pictured) has given up a successful career in TV to open his brewery Thu, 20 Aug 2015 17:18:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/08/20/beer-old-and-new-on-the-romney-marsh https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/08/20/beer-old-and-new-on-the-romney-marsh Bradley Cummings and Gareth Williams have put Newport in Wales on the beer map by storming to victory in the Champion Beer of Britain competition with Cwtch, a biiter whose name means "cuddle" in Welsh. The result was announced at the Great British Beer Festival in London. Bradley (left) and Gareth are seen with CAMRA chairman Colin Valentine Tue, 11 Aug 2015 16:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/11/tiny-now-a-giant-among-breweries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/11/tiny-now-a-giant-among-breweries Pubs Minister Marcus Jones will unveil a Badge of Honour campaign to save locals under threat of closure. The first badge will be awarded at the opening trade session of the Great British Beer Festival today (12 August) as new statistics show that suburban pubs are most likely to close Tue, 11 Aug 2015 11:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/11/minister-in-drive-to-save-pubs-from-axe https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/08/11/minister-in-drive-to-save-pubs-from-axe As the British Guild of Beer Writers prepares to hold its annual reception on the eve of the Great British Beer Festival, guild founder Roger Protz recalls its early days, its associations with the late Michael Jackson and the long struggle to get greater media support for Britain's historic drink Sat, 08 Aug 2015 11:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/08/08/how-writers-boosted-beer-s-image https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/08/08/how-writers-boosted-beer-s-image Dave Bailey, who runs Hardknott Brewery in Cumbria, describes the thought that went into brewing Nuclear Sunset on the 70th anniversary of the dropping of the A-bomb on Hiroshima in Japan. Dave's brewery is close to Sellafield in Cumbria and he is acutely aware of the strong feelings aroused by proponents and opponents of the nuclear industry Wed, 05 Aug 2015 07:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/08/05/a-beer-i-brewed-with-grave-misgivings https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/08/05/a-beer-i-brewed-with-grave-misgivings The trade session at this year's Great British Beer Festival (pictured) will see a much larger turnout of brewers as CAMRA opens a new facility for smaller producers. Black Sheep Brewery is launching a new keg pale ale, Pathmaker, to attract younger drinkers while Thornbridge Brewery is going into partnership with a top Dutch bar owner. Ilkley Brewery will expand production under new ownership Fri, 31 Jul 2015 11:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/31/round-up-gbbf-trade-session-booms-new-black-sheep-beer-thornbridge-heads-to-holland-ilkley-brewery-bought https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/31/round-up-gbbf-trade-session-booms-new-black-sheep-beer-thornbridge-heads-to-holland-ilkley-brewery-bought Beer and pubs are booming in Newcastle and Gateshead as the area recovers from the loss of heavy industry and carves out a new future. The once derelict Quayside area of Newcastle is now thriving with bars and pubs while new breweries are opening throughout the region, including Northern Alchemy where Carl Kennedy and Andy Aitchinson (pictured) brew in a former shipping container Wed, 29 Jul 2015 09:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/07/29/beer-and-pubs-are-the-talk-of-the-toon https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/07/29/beer-and-pubs-are-the-talk-of-the-toon Wandsworth Council in South London has told a property developer to rebuild "brick by brick" the Alchemist pub on St John's Hill that was bulldozed without planning permission. The council says the pub is a building rich in architectural detail. It's the second London pub to be bulldozed in London this year: Westminster Council has told property developers to rebuild the Carlton Tavern in Maida Vale Wed, 22 Jul 2015 13:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/22/council-says-rebuild-this-pub-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/22/council-says-rebuild-this-pub-1 Bateman's brewery in Wainfleet, Lincs, is dramatically downsizing its brewing capacity from 18,000 barrels a year to just 7,000 in order to reap greater benefits from Progressive Beer Duty. The brewery, founded in 1874, is run today by siblings Jaclyn and Stuart Bateman (pictured). MD Stuart says PBD is hitting middle-sized brewers as they cannot get the same benefits as smaller ones, who undercut them on price Tue, 21 Jul 2015 08:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/21/shock-as-batemans-downsizes-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/21/shock-as-batemans-downsizes-brewing Wylam Brewery, founded just 15 years ago in George Stephenson's birthplace, has ambitious plans to move from its farm buildings near Hadrian's Wall to the splendour of the Palace of Arts in Exhibition Park in Newcastle-on-Tyne. The council should give the go-ahead this autumn but residents in Jesmond may put a spanner in the works. Pictured: Wylam's brewing team of Lee Howourth, Ben Wilkinson, Christopher Lee and Matt Boyle Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/07/16/wylam-plans-to-steam-into-newcastle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/07/16/wylam-plans-to-steam-into-newcastle London was once dubbed a 'beer desert' but it has recovered from the days of manic takeovers to offer drinkers a vast choice of good beers and modern bars alongside traditional boozers. In a new edition of his CAMRA guide, Des de Moor relishes the revival of brewing in the capital city Wed, 15 Jul 2015 08:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/07/15/raising-a-glass-to-london-s-beer-boom https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/07/15/raising-a-glass-to-london-s-beer-boom Discount supermarket chain Lidl has launched 48 new beers from regional breweries, with a price band of £1.17 to £1.69, undercutting those from Asda, Sainsbury's and Tesco. While a number of big brewers are featured, drinkers will also find beers from the likes of Kite, Leeds Brewery, Portobello and Tower Wed, 08 Jul 2015 15:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/08/beer-range-grows-lidl-by-lidl https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/08/beer-range-grows-lidl-by-lidl Nationwide drinks group Oddbins has launched No 5, the latest in its range of craft beers. It's a Saison, based on the style made famous in French-speaking Wallonia. It's brewed by Rocky Head Brewery, a new micro-plant in south London launched by Steve Daniels, a former Oddbins director Wed, 08 Jul 2015 12:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/08/oddbins-launches-belgian-style-saison https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/08/oddbins-launches-belgian-style-saison American craft beers in cask-conditioned form will be one of the highlights at the 2015 Great Brtish Beer Festival, to be staged at London Olympa from 11-15 August. The festival, which attracts up to 55,000 people, will also feature 900 real ales from around the UK, along with the announcement of the annual Champion Beer of Britain awards Fri, 03 Jul 2015 09:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/03/u-s-cask-beers-head-for-olympia-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/03/u-s-cask-beers-head-for-olympia-fest Legendary rock group Queen celebrate 40 years since they recorded Bohemian Rhapsody -- one of the best-selling records of all time -- with a Bohemian Pilsner brewed in the Czech Republic to the spirit of the original beer from Pilsen brewed there in the mid- 19th century. Bohemian Lager will be rocking and stocking shelves in the UK and then worldwide Thu, 02 Jul 2015 18:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/02/queen-rock-beer-world-with-bohemian-pils-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/02/queen-rock-beer-world-with-bohemian-pils-1 Just a few months after opening, Bradford Brewery has scooped the top award of New Business of the Year in the annual Bradford Means Business competition sponsored by the local Telegraph & Argus newspaper. Brewery managing director Matthew Halliday is seen picking up his award. Wed, 01 Jul 2015 13:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/01/top-award-for-new-bradford-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/01/top-award-for-new-bradford-brewery Rob and Jo Theakston have launched a new hoppy, golden pale ale, Hoptacular, at their brewery in Masham, North Yorkshire. Four hops are used to give the 3.6% beer a big bitter and fruity appeal, with much of the character coming from fermentation in traditional "Yorkshire Squares" Wed, 01 Jul 2015 11:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/01/you-d-be-baamy-to-miss-black-sheep-s-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/07/01/you-d-be-baamy-to-miss-black-sheep-s-ale Pugnacious Scottish brewer BrewDog will invest $30 million in a brewery in the United States, due to open in August 2016. The brewery, along with a tap room and visitor centre, will be based in Canal Winchester in the region of Columbus, Ohio. The brewery will act as the spur for BrewDog's exports. Pictured: founders James Watt (left) and Martin Dickie Mon, 29 Jun 2015 16:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/29/brewdog-to-build-us-brewery-in-ohio https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/29/brewdog-to-build-us-brewery-in-ohio Molson Coors has admitted that the bottled version of its best-selling Doom Bar has been brewed for the past two years in Burton-on-Trent. Yet bottle labels announce in bold type ROCK CORNWALL. And an advertisement in Waitrose Weekend, illustrated with a bottle of Doom Bar, says Sharp's creates beer "alive with Cornish energy" at Rock. Other big brands, including Foster's, Kronenbourg and Stella Artois, also stress their places of origin but brew in Britain Mon, 29 Jun 2015 10:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/06/29/doom-bar-between-rock-a-hard-place https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/06/29/doom-bar-between-rock-a-hard-place Wilderen in Belgian Limburg makes beer, gin and whisky and attracts 100,000 visitors to a complex that includes old farm buildings where gin production in the 18th and 19th centuries was on a grand scale. The company is run by husband-and-wife team Mike Janssens and Roniek Van Bree (pictured) who have brought their brewing and design skills to restoring the old buildings Thu, 25 Jun 2015 10:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/25/wilderen-is-wild-with-beer-whisky-gin https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/25/wilderen-is-wild-with-beer-whisky-gin Ter Dolen in the Limburg region of Flanders offers the twin delights of a 16th-century castle and a former farmhouse where Abbey beers are brewed. The complex is run by Mieke Desplenter, a member of the famous Belgian brewing dynasty that also has links to Riva, Liefmans and Gruut. Mon, 22 Jun 2015 09:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/22/castle-and-farm-offer-great-flanders-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/22/castle-and-farm-offer-great-flanders-ale The Montagues and the Capulets will be loving, fighting and dying in pub gardens in August and September as Fullers' joins forces with the Permanently Bard group of travelling actors to stage Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Good food and the Chiswick brewery's full range of beer will be available to help prove that "the play's the thing". Fri, 19 Jun 2015 12:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/19/fuller-s-offer-beer-and-the-bard https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/19/fuller-s-offer-beer-and-the-bard While traditional pubs are closing at an alarming rate, a new type of outlet for beer drinkers has achieved nationwide success. Pop-up pubs are small, utilitarian and based in premises designed for other purposes. Martyn Hiller (pictured) opened the first pop-up pub, the Butchers Arms, in Herne, Kent, 10 years ago and its success should see some 200 small pubs operating by the end of the year. Thu, 18 Jun 2015 13:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/18/popping-up-all-over-micropub-revolution https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/18/popping-up-all-over-micropub-revolution Reg Drury, former Fuller's head brewer, who has died aged 76, was a passionate supporter of cask-conditioned 'real ale'. In the 1970s, with giant brewers developing keg beers, Reg saved Fuller's cask brands by improving their quality while brewing them in new-style conical fermenters. Beers such as ESB went on to win multiple prizes in beer competitions Mon, 15 Jun 2015 18:32:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/15/reg-drury-a-cask-beer-hero https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/15/reg-drury-a-cask-beer-hero As celebrations get underway to commemorate the signing of Magna Carta 800 years ago, breweries have produced special beers to mark the occasion. Some use medieval recipes to incorporate such ingredients as rosemary, yarrow and other herbs and spices added at a time when hops were not available or were unknown Sun, 14 Jun 2015 10:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/14/magna-carta-ales-a-toast-to-liberty https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/14/magna-carta-ales-a-toast-to-liberty Four students from the brewing and distilling course at Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh have made a deep bow in the direction of Extra Special Bitter by producinga version that stresses the style's roots in both Britain and the United States. Natural Selection uses British malts and American hops, with a name that also commemorates the scientific discoveries of Charles Darwin. Pictured: Sarah Brown, the project co-ordinator Sat, 13 Jun 2015 12:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/13/extra-special-bitter-criss-crosses-the-pond https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/13/extra-special-bitter-criss-crosses-the-pond The Sailor Boy pub in Hitchin, Herts, has been gutted by fire. The former Enterprise Inns pub had stood empty for several months following a ruling by the local council that it could be turned into a convenience store. Campaigners say the Walsworth area of Hitchin now has no pubs and people will have to travel in to the town centre for a drink Fri, 05 Jun 2015 09:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/05/fire-robs-town-of-community-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/05/fire-robs-town-of-community-local Posy Parsons (left) and Claire Russell are bringing full-mash and full-grain brewing to the home with easy to use kits that offer malted barley and hop pellets rather than syrups. They hail from the U.S. and Australia respectively where they fought their way through the fizz to discover good beer and brought their passion to the UK. Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/04/home-brewers-are-cutting-with-the-grain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/06/04/home-brewers-are-cutting-with-the-grain A Good Beer Guide-listed community local, the Prince of Wales in Moseley, Birmingham, has seen Keith and Diane Marsden (Keith pictured left) named Licensees of the Year by the British Institute of Innkeeping. The pub serves a wide range of cask ales, two ciders -- and also has a vast collection of Cuban cigars Tue, 02 Jun 2015 19:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/02/brum-community-local-scoops-top-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/06/02/brum-community-local-scoops-top-award Scottish craft brewer BrewDog will invest in a new £25m brewhouse in Ellon near Aberdeen that will increase production capacity five times. £6m has been raised by a "crowd funding" initiative and £3m of that figure will go straight into the new brewhouse, which will have a capacity of 300hl. The new site is projected to come on stream in February 2016. Pictured are founders James Watt and Martin Dickie Sun, 31 May 2015 13:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/31/brewdog-in-25m-expansion-drive https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/31/brewdog-in-25m-expansion-drive Nicholson's, the 80-strong chain of historic pubs located throughout the UK, has seen a dramatic increase of 27% in the consumption of golden and pale ales. Nicholson's -- part of the Mitchells & Butlers group -- says many younger drinkers moving from lager find golden and pale ales appealing. But its biggest-selling style is still amber-coloured bitter Thu, 28 May 2015 11:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/28/pale-ales-triumph-in-major-pub-group https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/28/pale-ales-triumph-in-major-pub-group Marks & Spencer has launched a new range of bottled beers from leading brewers. While the beers are "own label", the name of each brewery is clearly identified on the labels. Several of the beers feature British malts and hops. Mon, 25 May 2015 12:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/25/m-s-launches-new-british-beer-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/25/m-s-launches-new-british-beer-range The Antwerp Arms -- "the Annie" -- in Tottenham, North London, has been saved by its locals. When Enterprise Inns wanted to sell the pub to a property developer, an action group was set up and got the local council to declare the Annie an Asset of Community Value. A co-operative was formed and shareholders raised the cash to buy the pub, which re-opened in April Thu, 21 May 2015 07:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/05/21/tottenham-s-annie-spurred-to-success https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/05/21/tottenham-s-annie-spurred-to-success Flying Dog, the American brewery famous for its powerful IPAs and Porter, has scaled down with its Easy IPA at 4.7%. But the brewery inspired by "gonzo journalist" Hunter S Thompson, with labels drawn by thel British satirical artist Ralph Steadman, stays true to its roots with a beer rich in hop and malt character Sun, 17 May 2015 07:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/17/flying-dog-session-ipa-says-take-it-easy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/17/flying-dog-session-ipa-says-take-it-easy Nick Miller, chief executive of Meantime Brewing Co, says the takeover by SABMiller won't affect beer quality: "They haven't got the balls to tell brewmaster Alastair Hook what to brew," he says. The brewery's London Pale Ale, Lager and Stout can now enjoy export to other markets while the Greenwich brewery will become a "centre of innovation" for the global brewer Fri, 15 May 2015 12:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/15/miller-we-ll-be-dumbed-up-not-down https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/15/miller-we-ll-be-dumbed-up-not-down Meantime Brewery in Greenwich, South London, has been bought by the world's second biggest brewing group SABMiller. Meantime was founded by Alastair Hook and was joined by Nick Miller as chief executive: Miller had previously run Miller Brands, SABMiller's UK subsidiary Fri, 15 May 2015 08:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/05/15/global-giant-in-grab-for-meantime https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/05/15/global-giant-in-grab-for-meantime An article in Guardian Online by Tony Naylor suggested that Mild ale was in such steep decline that CAMRA's Mild Month promotion was a waste of time. But there's life in the style yet, with many more brewers producing it. Simon Yates of Banks's Brewery (pictured) thinks Mild will be rediscovered -- and his brewery is the biggest producer of Mild in the world Wed, 13 May 2015 09:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/05/13/mild-it-s-not-as-dead-as-the-dodo https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/05/13/mild-it-s-not-as-dead-as-the-dodo The Tre Fontane -- Three Fountains -- abbey in Rome has been officially recognised as the 11th Trappist brewery. The monks' 8.5% ale was launched this month with eucalyptus leaves added to the brew. Tue, 12 May 2015 10:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/12/italian-monks-beer-given-trappist-approval https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/12/italian-monks-beer-given-trappist-approval "Brewing with a conscience" are the watch words at Purity Brewery in Warwickshire. Steam is trapped and recycled while water is fed into a wetland system of ponds and reed beds where algae clean it, return it to the brewery and encourage wild life to develop. The brewery is on a farm and spent grain and hops are used as animal feed and compost. Left, brewer Florent Vialan in the new £1.8m brewhouse Fri, 08 May 2015 15:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/05/08/purity-beer-with-a-clear-conscience https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/05/08/purity-beer-with-a-clear-conscience Beer Sommelier Jane Peyton calls on all beer lovers to join the festivities starting on 15 June to celebrate Britain's national drink. She has chosen that date as it also marks the signing of Magna Carta, which supported English ale Tue, 05 May 2015 11:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/05/05/it-s-magna-carta-time-for-british-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/05/05/it-s-magna-carta-time-for-british-beer Fast-growing independent brewery Hogs Back in Surrey has launched an IPA, Hopping Hog -- its first ale in keg format. It will also be available in cask and bottle. Brewery owner Rupert Thompson says Hopping Hog is a traditional English version of IPA while he acknowledges that American craft brewers have helped revive the style world-wide with their passion for the beer Mon, 04 May 2015 14:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/04/hogs-back-ipa-goes-back-to-english-roots https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/04/hogs-back-ipa-goes-back-to-english-roots Dougal Sharp, pictured, founder of Innis & Gunn, the Scottish brewery famous for its oak-aged beers, has launched a bond scheme that will enable supporters and investors to help the company build a state-of-the-art brewing facility in Scotland Sat, 02 May 2015 09:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/02/beer-bucks-bond-to-build-i-g-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/05/02/beer-bucks-bond-to-build-i-g-brewery Deschutes Brewery from Oregon, United States, scooped three Golds in the International Beer and Cider Awards, announced at London's Guildhall. Other winners included Oakham and Marston's from Britain and Clonmel from Ireland. Pictured are the winners outside the Guildhall Thu, 30 Apr 2015 09:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/30/hat-trick-for-u-s-brewer-in-world-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/30/hat-trick-for-u-s-brewer-in-world-awards CAMRA's Pubs Heritage Group has produced a superb, full-colour guide to the astonishing collection of pubs in the Midlands -- from the Welsh border to the Wash -- that recall the hey-day of pub design and building in the 19th and 20th centuries, leaving us a legacy of great drinking places. As well as Art Nouveau emporia there are simple ale houses such as the Coopers Tavern (left) in Burton-on-Trent Sun, 26 Apr 2015 12:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/04/26/raise-a-glass-to-midlands-pubs-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/04/26/raise-a-glass-to-midlands-pubs-heritage Carlow Brewing, Ireland's leading craft brewery, is investing more than 1 million euro in an expansion plan that will create 12 new jobs, including the brewing side. The brewery produces stout, wheat beer, ale and lager. Founder Seamus O'Hara (pictured) says there is both increasing demand and space for growth in the Irish beer market and in exports Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/24/1m-euro-expansion-by-irish-craft-brewer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/24/1m-euro-expansion-by-irish-craft-brewer The brainchild of Steve Hindy (picured), co-founder of Brooklyn Brewery in New York City, a major debate will take place on Wednesday 29 April at Beavertown Brewery in North London. Featured speakers include Roger Protz, John Holl, editor of All About Beer, Jasper Cuppaidge of Camden Town Brewery and Logan Plant of Beavertown Thu, 23 Apr 2015 10:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/23/major-debate-on-future-of-craft-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/23/major-debate-on-future-of-craft-beer Christo Tofalli has turned beer sales round at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans -- officially Britain's oldest pub -- and now serves more cask beer than keg and lager. He specialises in beers from smaller independent breweries but his landlord, giant pubco Mitchells & Butlers, wants him to concentrate on such brands as Doom Bar and London Pride. Who will come out on top? Wed, 22 Apr 2015 11:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/04/22/ancient-inn-sticks-up-for-beer-choice https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/04/22/ancient-inn-sticks-up-for-beer-choice The Campaign for Real Ale's annual conference this weekend won't debate sexism in the brewing industry. Beer writer Melissa Cole argues CAMRA is dodging the issue and urges all organisers of beer festivals and other consumer events to say "No" to the likes of Top Totty Wed, 15 Apr 2015 13:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/04/15/time-for-brewers-to-kill-sexist-images https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2015/04/15/time-for-brewers-to-kill-sexist-images The "beers from the wood" quiet revolution is spreading. It started in the Junction pub in Castleford, West Yorkshire, where owners Neil Midgley and Maureen Shaw have now bought the neighbouring pub to spread the woody word. They plan to install a micro-brewery -- with vessels made of oak. In Leeds, Andy Yuill at the Duck & Drake offers beers served in both oak and metal. Pictured, Neil Midgley (right) with cooper Alastair Simms Fri, 10 Apr 2015 14:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/04/10/woodies-on-the-rise-in-yorkshire https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/04/10/woodies-on-the-rise-in-yorkshire A tweet from Bradford brewery founder Matthew Halliday has enraged George Galloway, the Respect parliamentary candidate (pictured), and sparked a rush for the new brewery's beers and support on Twitter from around the world. On the positive side, this is the first new brewery in Bradford since the 1950s and, thanks to the political storm, sold six casks of ale in its tap room over Easter Tue, 07 Apr 2015 15:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/07/bradford-brewery-in-bitter-political-row https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/04/07/bradford-brewery-in-bitter-political-row The £25 million Marston's has been for the brewing side of Thwaites of Blackburn will reap the Burton giant a rich reward as it can flood Thwaites' tied and free accounts with its own beers. Thwaites says it still plans to build anew brewery -- but what would it produce there as it has signed a 10-year production deal with Marstons? It's more likely that Thwaites is destined to become just a pub company but will keep control of the Crafty Dan micro plant Fri, 03 Apr 2015 11:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/04/03/thwaites-deal-favours-marston-s https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/04/03/thwaites-deal-favours-marston-s National brewing giant Marston's has paid £25.1 million for the brewing division of Daniel Thwaites of Blackburn, a family-owned brewery dating from the 19th century. The deal will give Marston's control of two leading ale brands, Wainwright's and Lancaster Bomber Tue, 31 Mar 2015 10:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/31/marston-s-25-million-grab-for-thwaites https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/31/marston-s-25-million-grab-for-thwaites Draught Burton Ale is back -- and it was the great talking point of the Burton beer festival. Three CAMRA members from Derby (left to right) Les Baynton, Dave Evans and John Arguile, encouraged Burton Bridge Brewery to produce a few batches of the beer for the festival but now 16 pubs in Burton and Derby are taking it. The big question is: will Carlsberg agree to hand over the brand name and trademarks so it can be a regular Burton brew again? Sun, 29 Mar 2015 14:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/29/revived-dba-takes-burton-by-storm https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/29/revived-dba-takes-burton-by-storm Julie O'Grady and a group of like-minded women beer lovers on Merseyside have got together to promote their favourite tipple and encourage more women to sample the vast array of different aromas and flavours offered by modern beer and prove that it's not just a drink for men with beards Sat, 28 Mar 2015 10:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/03/28/liverpool-ladies-say-cheers-to-beer-2 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/03/28/liverpool-ladies-say-cheers-to-beer-2 Scouse wits say you can get half cut in Gallaghers' pub in Birkenhead without touching a drop of booze. Frank and Sue Gallagher (pictured) are professional hairdressers who fancied running a pub. When they took over the derelict Dispensary pub they not only restored it and changed the name but added a barber's shop as well. Now you can enjoy local cask ales and have a short back and sides. Wed, 25 Mar 2015 18:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/03/25/how-to-get-well-cut-in-a-merseyside-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/03/25/how-to-get-well-cut-in-a-merseyside-pub Cask Matters, supported by brewers, pub companies and consumer groups, has launched an e-learning scheme to train bar staff in best practice for storing and serving cask beer. The programme is based on a series of short films (clip shown here) that covers all aspects of cellar and bar work. Wed, 25 Mar 2015 11:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/25/e-learning-gives-big-boost-for-cask-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/25/e-learning-gives-big-boost-for-cask-beer Crisp Malting Group has used British Science Week to take the art of growing grain and turning barley into malt to school children. Young students at Portgordon Primary School in Moray, Scotland, were taken on the journey that leads from barley field to maltings by Richard Lake and Rebecca Gee of Crisps -- and the children were given malted bread at the end of the lessons as a treat. Tue, 24 Mar 2015 16:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/24/appliance-of-science-boosts-british-barley https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/24/appliance-of-science-boosts-british-barley Launching Community Pubs Week, CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, reports that 600 pubs have now been listed as ACVs -- Assets of Community Value. They include a brewpub, the Bohemia, in Finchley, North London (pictured). This success is underscored by the third successive beer duty cut in the Budget that will boost pub sales and save jobs Mon, 23 Mar 2015 08:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/23/600-listed-pubs-win-drinkers-backing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/23/600-listed-pubs-win-drinkers-backing The 2015 vintage of the limited edition Duvel Tripel Hop features a new American variety, Equinox, that comes from the same Pacific North-west hop farms that created Citra, Mosaic and Simcoe. Duvel Tripel Hop is a stronger version of the famous Belgian golden ale and has become an annual treat as a result of beer lovers lobbying the Duvel-Moortgat brewery Sat, 21 Mar 2015 11:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/21/new-american-hop-graces-duvel-tripel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/21/new-american-hop-graces-duvel-tripel Jane Peyton is leading a crusade to make 15 June 2015 Beer Day Britain. It coincides with celebrations to mark the signing of Magna Carta and, Jane argues, is the ideal day to raise a glass of beer to salute the national drink Sat, 21 Mar 2015 09:53:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/03/21/15-june-make-it-beer-day-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/03/21/15-june-make-it-beer-day-britain How well does beer match food? Roger Protz helped devise a beer menu for Lussmann's restaurants in Hertfordshire and he invited fellow writer Melissa Cole to join him for lunch in St Albans to see how the beers measured up to the dishes on the menu Fri, 13 Mar 2015 09:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/03/13/a-liquid-lunch-with-melissa-cole https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/03/13/a-liquid-lunch-with-melissa-cole Mikkel Borg Bjergso (pictured), founder of the Danish "gypsy" brewery Mikkeller, has written an entertaining book that details his shift from maths teacher to brewer in Copenhagen. Starting with traditional beers, he has broadened his scope with new styles that use herbs, spices, fruit and coffee, and he has toured the world to make collaborative brews. He also shares many of his recipes for home-brewers to reproduce Wed, 11 Mar 2015 12:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/03/11/gypsy-mikkeller-s-voyage-of-discovery-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2015/03/11/gypsy-mikkeller-s-voyage-of-discovery-1 Oddbins has launched a beer-only store in Blackheath, south London, that will stock 300 craft beers, mainly drawn from Britain. Ayo Akintola, managing director of the Oddbins' chain, says Britain is enjoying a "golden ale" of craft brewing and sales of beer in his stores have risen by 37% over the past 12 months. Four of the beers on sale are Oddbins' onw-label brands, produced by leading British brewers Tue, 10 Mar 2015 09:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/10/oddbins-new-store-hails-golden-age-of-craft-brewing-with-300-beers-on-offer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/10/oddbins-new-store-hails-golden-age-of-craft-brewing-with-300-beers-on-offer SIBA -- the Society of Independent Brewers -- which represents 800 local and craft brewers, has launched an election manifesto with an appeal to parliamentary candidates to back local breweries and community pubs and to lobby the government to maintain and extend Small Breweries' Relief that enables independent producers to pay lower rates of excise duty than national and global giants. Pictured: Mike Benner, SIBA managing director Mon, 09 Mar 2015 10:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/09/indie-brewers-launch-election-battle-cry https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/09/indie-brewers-launch-election-battle-cry Greene King is responding to surging sales for cask beer with a major makeover for its flagship IPA, with new pump clips and labels that stress the history of the Suffolk brewery.The brewer has used CAMRA research showing that real ale appeals to 18 to 24 year-olds by giving its beer youthful appeal. It's also improving cellar skills for landlords with a new online training programme called Beer Genius Mon, 09 Mar 2015 08:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/09/makeover-for-ipa-in-greene-king-bid-for-younger-drinkers-as-cask-sales-surge https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/09/makeover-for-ipa-in-greene-king-bid-for-younger-drinkers-as-cask-sales-surge The Catford Bridge Tavern, South London, destroyed in a major fire on 1 March, was due to become a bar with residential flats. The pub was previously owned by Punch and Spirit pub groups. The ground floor had been leased to Tesco by a subsequent pubco but the supermarket group failed to get permission to turn it into a store. Now, following the fire, there are doubts it will ever be a pub again Sat, 07 Mar 2015 14:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/07/pub-blaze-raises-doubts-over-future https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/07/pub-blaze-raises-doubts-over-future "A Restorative Beverage for Invalids and Convalescents", based on 19th-century IPAs, has been launched by Scottish independent BrewDog to replicate the strong and powerfully hopped beers of that time. The inspiration has been the 19th-century pharmacologist Dr Jonathan Pereira who praised the medicinal qualities of the pale ales of his day Wed, 04 Mar 2015 11:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/04/new-brewdog-ipa-is-on-doctor-s-orders https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/04/new-brewdog-ipa-is-on-doctor-s-orders Peerless Brewing on the Wirral has grown from 12 to 30 barrels in five years and its new plant is energy-efficient, saving on electricity, oil and steam. The brewery has won a clutch of medals from the Society of Independent Brewers and offers a beer range that covers pale, gold and black and a strong stout that's a Riot to drink. Mon, 02 Mar 2015 18:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/02/beer-is-booming-in-birkenhead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/03/02/beer-is-booming-in-birkenhead As a new report shows that an additional 1,000 pubs would have closed and the price of a pint would be 16p more if the government hadn't scrapped the Beer Duty Escalator and cut duty in the past two Budgets, the Campaign for Real Ale is urging Chancellor George Osborne to go for a hat trick of duty cuts in the March Budget.. CAMRA Chief Executive Tim Page (pictured) says pubs need support as they encourage responsible drinking Mon, 23 Feb 2015 10:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/23/osborne-urged-to-go-for-duty-hat-trick https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/23/osborne-urged-to-go-for-duty-hat-trick The Duck and Drake pub in Leeds offers a range of beers from local breweries served from wooden casks or "woodies". One event was held in association with the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood. In nearby Castleford, the Junction pub is the pacesetter, offering a rolling range of beers served from oak casks. Fri, 20 Feb 2015 15:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/02/20/woodies-take-centre-stage-in-leeds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/02/20/woodies-take-centre-stage-in-leeds Truman's, the revived East London brewery, is planning a major expansion at its Hackney Wick site with a half-million pounds investment. The brewery opened in 2013, restoring the name of the famous Whitechapel brewery that closed during the period of mergia mania at the end of the 20th century. The expanded site will be able to produce keg beers as well as cask. Pictured: the cask store at Hackney Wick Thu, 19 Feb 2015 10:37:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/19/boost-for-truman-s-with-major-investment https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/19/boost-for-truman-s-with-major-investment Former City of London trading analyst Peter Tiley, who had never pulled a pint before, has walked away with the national Pub of the Year award from CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- at the Salutation Inn in the village of Ham in Gloucestershire. The pub is known locally as "the Sally" and impressed the judges with its range of real ales, ciders and perries -- and the warm welcome from Peter and Claire Tiley and their staff Tue, 17 Feb 2015 08:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/17/sally-triumphs-in-top-pub-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/17/sally-triumphs-in-top-pub-awards Maris Otter, the barley variety favoured by craft brewers, celebrates 50 years in 2015 since it was first grown in Norfolk. It's in great demand even though big farmers and maltsters attempted to phase it out in order to grow more profitable "high yielding" barley. At Crisp's in Norfolk the malt is still produced by the time-honoured "floor malting" method Thu, 12 Feb 2015 09:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/02/12/say-happy-birthday-to-a-great-barley https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/02/12/say-happy-birthday-to-a-great-barley It's a hat trick of victories for Elland 1872 Porter, which has triumphed at the CAMRA National Winter Ales Festival in Derby. Judged against a range of old ales, stouts, strong mild and barley wines, the porter -- based on an authentic Victorian recipe -- was judged Champion Winter Beer of Britain by a panel of expert judges. Dickie Bird of Elland Brewery is seen accepting the award from festival organiser Gillian Hough Wed, 11 Feb 2015 16:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/11/yorkshire-porter-triumphs-again https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/11/yorkshire-porter-triumphs-again Beer price increases could put as much as 12p on the price of a pint as Carlsberg. Heineken and Molson Coors jack up their wholesale prices. Their justification -- that "manufacturing costs" force them to raise prices -- doesn't hold water as the price of both malt and fuel are in free-fall. Tue, 10 Feb 2015 19:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/02/10/brewers-price-hike-will-kill-more-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/02/10/brewers-price-hike-will-kill-more-pubs A major survey of the bottled beer sector conducted by Butcombe Brewery shows that retailers expect the sector to grow close to 13% in 2015. Many believe consumers should be given more information about beer styles and there should be more support for local and regional breweries Mon, 09 Feb 2015 11:53:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/09/sales-of-bottled-beer-are-set-to-soar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/09/sales-of-bottled-beer-are-set-to-soar Richard Osmond, with a one-barrel 'nano brewery' at the Verulam Arms in St Albans, pays homage to medieval times with Gruit, ale made with the addition of herbs and spices. The beer matches the food in the pub, which uses ingredients foraged from the surrounding countryside. Sun, 08 Feb 2015 09:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/02/08/going-wild-over-spiced-up-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/02/08/going-wild-over-spiced-up-ale Burton Bridge Brewery is bringing Draught Burton Ale back to its home town when a batch is brewed on 4 March. The beer was axed by Carlsberg in January but now Bruce Wilkinson and Geoff Mumford -- who first brewed DBA at Ind Coope in the 1970s -- will launch the beer at the Burton beer festival on 26 March Fri, 06 Feb 2015 13:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/06/burton-ale-hits-the-comeback-trail https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/06/burton-ale-hits-the-comeback-trail Both towns and villages see the hearts ripped out of their communities as pubs close. They are being sold by pubcos to both supermarkets and property speculators to turn either into stores or expensive residential homes. Pictured: the White Swan in Startforth in Teesdale, the last pub in the village, which has been sold a property developer with the backing of the county council. Pubs under threat in Brighton from property developers Thu, 05 Feb 2015 13:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/05/terrible-toll-of-pub-closures-goes-on https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/05/terrible-toll-of-pub-closures-goes-on In a bid to further sales and interests of Scottish beer, eight independent brewers have joined forces to form The Brewers' Association of Scotland. They hope to draw in other craft breweries to expand sales nationally and globally. Representatives of the eight breweries met in the Scottish Parliament, with TBAS chairman Dougal Sharp of Innis & Gunn pictured third from the right. And Caledonian Brewery has revamped its 80 Shillng ale and renamed it Edinburgh Castle 80/- Wed, 04 Feb 2015 18:24:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/04/scots-brewers-unite-to-boost-their-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/02/04/scots-brewers-unite-to-boost-their-beer A commercial for American Budweiser is a frontal attack on craft beer and geeky drinkers who 'dissect' fruit beers. The suggestion is that real men drink Bud without sniffing aromas. But Anheuser-Busch has bought or has major stakes in several American craft breweries that offer rich aromas of coffee, chocolate and...pumpkin -- such as Redhook's Pumpkin Porter Tue, 03 Feb 2015 14:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/02/03/why-american-bud-is-taking-the-pith https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/02/03/why-american-bud-is-taking-the-pith Bruges had 20 breweries in the 20th century but most were taken over and closed by a giant lager group. But the brewing tradition is being restored. Halve Maan reopened in 2005 and has a smart new brewhouse while both Bourgogne des Flandres and Bryggja will start brewing this year Fri, 30 Jan 2015 10:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/01/30/brewing-is-bouncing-back-in-bruges https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/01/30/brewing-is-bouncing-back-in-bruges Anglia Ruskin University has teamed up with the Tram Depot pub in Cambridge for research into how drinkers choose their favourite beers on the bar. Using "eye tracking" goggles, the research will analyse why some pump clip have more appeal than others Thu, 29 Jan 2015 12:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/01/29/beer-goggles-have-a-sharp-eye-for-top-pints https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/01/29/beer-goggles-have-a-sharp-eye-for-top-pints Marble Brewery is a stalwart of the Manchester brewing scene and among its large range of beers Earl Grey IPA, made with the addition of bergamot, is a major talking point in the region. Pictured are Matthew Howgate (far left) and his team at the brewery. The beers are widely available and can be supped in splendour in the Marble Arch pub just yards from the brewery Mon, 26 Jan 2015 12:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/01/26/it-s-time-for-tea-at-manchester-s-marble https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/01/26/it-s-time-for-tea-at-manchester-s-marble Bruges -- Brugge in Flemish -- has long been a beer lovers' treat. But now it has a new Beer Musuem while the main museum, the Historium, has an elegant beer cafe sponsored by Duvel Moortgat (pictured). Brugs Beertje remains one of the world's great beer bars but now there's added delight from Rose Red while Timmermans has opened a beer shop in the city and plans a new brewery to produce the renowned Bourgogne des Flandres ale Mon, 19 Jan 2015 14:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/01/19/bruges-paradise-just-got-better https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2015/01/19/bruges-paradise-just-got-better Unloved and unwanted by Carlsberg, the British subsidiary of the Danish brewer has killed Draught Burton Ale. It was a beer that played a pivotal role in the "real ale revolution" in the 1970s and 80s but lost its way in the game of musical chairs played by giant brewers Tue, 06 Jan 2015 12:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/01/06/dba-gone-for-a-burton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2015/01/06/dba-gone-for-a-burton Three drinkers in Derby -- John Arguile, Dave Evans and Les Baynton -- have pooled their resources to launch Beer Lovers and plan to recreate old beer styles. They have got off to a flying start with Bass P2 Imperial Stout, produced by former Bass brewer Steve Wellington. Two casks of the beer were drained dry in Derby pubs and now the Beer Lovers are planning their next revival. Derby Telegraph photo shows John Arguile (left) with Steve Wellington and (centre) Ralf Edge, publican at the Alexandra, Derby Sat, 03 Jan 2015 15:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/01/03/beer-lovers-bring-back-famous-bass-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2015/01/03/beer-lovers-bring-back-famous-bass-stout Beers ranging from classic English bitter to revivalist IPAs, ancient Audit Ales, ale aged in Scottish whisky casks, strong milds and stouts and a London interpretation of Berliner Weisse stand out from the crowd. But top mark goes to Chiltern Brewery's Flanders Pale Ale, a British-Belgian beer that commemorated the links between the two countries forged during World War One. The beer was brewed by Tom Jenkinson (left) and Dave McGovern (right) with a little help -- and hindrance -- from the writer Wed, 31 Dec 2014 18:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/31/great-beers-that-left-their-mark-in-2014 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/31/great-beers-that-left-their-mark-in-2014 The Beer Orders, brought in by Business Secretary Lord Young in Margaret Thatcher's government in the early 1990s, sought to break the power of the "Big Six" national brewers whose tied estates dominated beer retailing. But the orders backfired, leading to the creation of giant pub companies -- pubcos -- that now exercise an even greater grip over the supply of beer Sat, 27 Dec 2014 10:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/12/27/tied-hand-and-foot-the-sad-and-sorry-saga-of-the-rise-of-britain-s-giant-pubcos https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/12/27/tied-hand-and-foot-the-sad-and-sorry-saga-of-the-rise-of-britain-s-giant-pubcos Christmas arrived early in Islington, North London, on Sunday 21 December when the William IV pub laid on a special meal for the homeless and those struggling financially. 400 meals were served and vegetables for the occasion were donated by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Many people were given free lifts to the pub by London cab drivers. The photo shows chef Adam Hardiman with a volunteer preparing food in the pub kitchen Mon, 22 Dec 2014 10:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/22/london-pub-welcomes-homeless-at-xmas https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/22/london-pub-welcomes-homeless-at-xmas Brigid Simmonds of the British Beer & Pub Association attacks the Market Rent option for pubco tenants by defending the "tied house" system she says has been around for centuries. She's rewriting history in her rush to defend the giant pub companies Fri, 19 Dec 2014 09:55:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/12/19/the-tie-don-t-dump-on-the-truth-brigid https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/12/19/the-tie-don-t-dump-on-the-truth-brigid Barack Obama has been awarded life membership of the American Homebrewers Association for brewing beer in the White House -- the first American president to make beer in Washington's seat of power. The AHA says the president has done much to elevate the importance of home-brewing in America's customs and traditions. The home-brewers' body has also honoured Chef Sam Kass at the White House who developed recipes for Honey Ale and Honey Porter Wed, 17 Dec 2014 18:51:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/17/american-home-brewers-honour-obama https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/17/american-home-brewers-honour-obama Northampton had two famous neighbouring breweries, Phipps and NBC. Both were destroyed by the large London brewer Watney that killed their ales in preference to keg Red Barrel. The breweries were knocked down to make way for a Carlsberg lager factory. But now the Phipps and NBC beers have risen from the grave and are being brewed again just yards from their original site Mon, 15 Dec 2014 16:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/15/risen-from-the-grave-beers-watney-killed-are-restored-to-their-northampton-home https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/15/risen-from-the-grave-beers-watney-killed-are-restored-to-their-northampton-home Six beers have been launched by The Shackleton company in Norfolk to commemorate the life and work of the great Anglo-Irish Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. The beers are named after ships and shelters from Shackleton's expeditions in the Edwardian period Sun, 14 Dec 2014 18:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/14/beer-range-honours-great-explorer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/14/beer-range-honours-great-explorer Quarr Abbey on the Isle of Wight was destroyed in the 16th century by Henry VIII. But a new monastery was built in the 20th century and now the monks have teamed up with Goddards Brewery on the island to brew Quarr Abbey Ale which uses herbs and spices grown by the monks Fri, 12 Dec 2014 13:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/12/island-monks-restore-abbey-ale-habit https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/12/island-monks-restore-abbey-ale-habit There are now more than 3,000 breweries in the United States and 1.5 new breweries are opening every day, according to year-end figures from the Brewers Association. Craft beer is recording record sales and beer is reaching out to women drinkers and Hispanics Thu, 11 Dec 2014 18:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/11/american-craft-beer-goes-on-booming-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/11/american-craft-beer-goes-on-booming-1 There are now 600 pubs listed as Assets of Community Value but CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- attacks the government for failing to protect community locals by refusing to close loopholes that allows them to be turned into supermarkets.Pictured: the Ivy House in South London, one successful pub listed as an ACV Wed, 10 Dec 2014 13:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/10/government-failing-local-pubs--camra https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/10/government-failing-local-pubs--camra Hogs Back Brewery in Surrey is growing its own hops for use in such leading beers as TEA and Hogstar lager. Braving the cold, staff from the brewery, led by owner Rupert Thompson, planted a further 1,200 new plants, including Fuggles and White Bine, with Cascade, a hop from the United States. Hogs Back plans a "green hop" beer next autumn, using hop straight from the harvest Sat, 06 Dec 2014 10:55:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/06/it-s-a-hoppy-christmas-at-hogs-back https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/06/it-s-a-hoppy-christmas-at-hogs-back Jessica Boak and Ray Bailey won the prestigious Michael Jackson Beer Writer of the Year Award for their book Beer Britannia at the annual awards dinner on 4 December hosted by the British Guild of Beer Writers. Other awards went to Tim Webb, Mark Dredge, Nigel Huddlestone and Alastair Gilmour, with Pip Sprake picking up the new award for Young Beer Writer of the Year. Fri, 05 Dec 2014 13:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/05/writers-honoured-in-top-beer-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/05/writers-honoured-in-top-beer-awards With Christmas on the horizon, brewers are gearing up for the festive season with a range of ales that will keep the cold out and the warmth in. Bateman's Rosey Nosey is building record sales while Adnams has an exclusive beer for Marks & Spencer. Lock the reindeer in the stable and get ready to glow Thu, 04 Dec 2014 13:29:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/04/yule-get-sleighed-with-these-xmas-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/04/yule-get-sleighed-with-these-xmas-beers Beers from Goose Island, one of the pioneering craft breweries in the United States, are now available on draught and in bottle in Britain, distributed by Greene King. The three beers are India Pale Ale, Honkers Ale and 312 Urban Wheat Ale. Drinkers will have to judge whether the beers have changed since the brewery was bought by American giant Anheuser-Busch Tue, 02 Dec 2014 16:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/02/take-a-gander-as-chicago-s-goose-lands https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/02/take-a-gander-as-chicago-s-goose-lands East London is becoming a pub desert as more and more locals are pulling down the shutters. And the situation will get worse when West Ham United move away from Upton Park to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford. Pictured: the Old Rose, one of the area's great old boozers but now boarded-up and derelict Mon, 01 Dec 2014 18:58:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/01/how-cockneyland-is-losing-its-locals https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/12/01/how-cockneyland-is-losing-its-locals West Berkshire Brewery, chaired by David Bruce, will raise £4 million to help fund a move to a new brewery in the Thames Valley to keep pace with demand for its beers. Jarrow Brewery -- "the biggest small brewery in the North-east" -- will launch a share issue to expand capacity and to export to the U.S. Pictured: David Bruce (left) with brewer Will Twomey and West Berks founders Helen and Dave Maggs Mon, 01 Dec 2014 09:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/01/breweries-on-the-move-west-berks-plans-new-site-jarrow-seeks-funds-to-expand https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/12/01/breweries-on-the-move-west-berks-plans-new-site-jarrow-seeks-funds-to-expand West Berkshire Brewery, chaired by David Bruce of Firkin pub fame, has unveiled a new look for its cask and bottled beers with eye-catching images that will reach out to a wider audience both at home and in export markets Wed, 26 Nov 2014 09:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/26/bruce-s-brewery-unveils-new-beer-image https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/26/bruce-s-brewery-unveils-new-beer-image Jane Peyton (pictured) has a mission to bring the glory of malt to drinkers' attention. With so much emphasis on hops, people forget that beer needs grain as it essential raw material. She has joined forces with writer Susannah Forbes to brew a special ale at Brewster's Brewery that will be unveiled in London next week Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/11/25/cutting-with-the-grain-to-make-great-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/11/25/cutting-with-the-grain-to-make-great-beer Britain's giant pubcos were dealt a major blow today when MPs voted to support a call to give pub tenants a "market rent" option to their contracts that will allow them buy beer free of the tie. The successful amendment was moved by Greg Mulholland (pictured second left with victorious landlords), chairman of the Parliamentary Save the Pub group. CAMRA hailed the vote a "landmark victory" for publicans and drinkers Tue, 18 Nov 2014 18:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/18/landmark-defeat-for-giant-pubcos https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/18/landmark-defeat-for-giant-pubcos British hop farmers have been given a major boost by supermarket giant Tesco with Single Hopped Kentish Ale. Brewed by Shepherd Neame in Faversham, it's the first beer to carry the logo of the British Hop Association run by Ali Capper (left) who grows hops with her husband Richard at Stocks Farm in Worcestershire. She hops the new beer will encourage more British brewers to use home-grown rather than imported hops Sat, 15 Nov 2014 12:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/15/supermarket-boost-for-british-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/15/supermarket-boost-for-british-hops On Tuesday 18 November parliament will debate a Bill to give greater power to tackle giant pub companies. The Bill will propose creating a post of Pubs Adjudicator to settle fair rents for publicans. But missing from the Bill is the call for a "market only" rent that would give publicans the right to buy beer free of the pubco tie. 38 Degrees and CAMRA have joined forces with an online petition to MPs -- sign it now and help stop our pubs closing Sat, 15 Nov 2014 10:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/15/one-last-heave-to-save-great-british-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/15/one-last-heave-to-save-great-british-pub Brewers from Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Brittany joined forces with Roger Ryman, head brewer at St Austell Brewery in Cornwall, to brew a special Celtic IPA that reflects the rich tradition of brewing throughout the Celtic regions. The beer will be unveiled at the Celtic Beer Festival on 22 November at St Austell Brewery Wed, 12 Nov 2014 09:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/12/celtic-brewers-celebrate-their-rich-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/12/celtic-brewers-celebrate-their-rich-heritage Timmermans is the oldest brewer of lambic and gueuze beer in Belgium dating from 1702 when it started life on a farm. It has restored its reputation after making fruit 'alcopops' and has produces true gueuze and cherry lambic beers under the guidance of revered brewer Willem Van Herreweghen. Pictured: brewer Thomas Vandelanotte taps an oak cask of lambic Sun, 09 Nov 2014 12:43:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/11/09/timmermans-and-the-magical-mystery-tour-that-creates-the-ancient-style-of-lambic-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/11/09/timmermans-and-the-magical-mystery-tour-that-creates-the-ancient-style-of-lambic-beer St Austell, the West Country's leading family brewery, has transformed a 19th-century bonded warehouse on Exeter Quayside into a pub restaurant with a smokehouse and the biggest range of craft beers in the region Thu, 06 Nov 2014 16:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/06/new-pub-restaurant-lights-up-exeter-quay https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/11/06/new-pub-restaurant-lights-up-exeter-quay St George's Distillery in Norfolk has stunned the drinks world by winning the European Whisky of the Year award in the 2015 edition of Jim Murray's international best-selling Whisky Bible. St George's opened in 2006 and was the first new English whisky distillery for a century Tue, 04 Nov 2014 10:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/11/04/english-whisky-wins-top-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/11/04/english-whisky-wins-top-award Tim Page, CAMRA's new chief executive, is impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of the campaign's 165,000 members -- but his ambition is to double that figure. He comes from a military background and since leaving the army has run the charity Emmaus followed by a stint as boss of the East Anglian Air Ambulance service Fri, 31 Oct 2014 10:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/10/31/camra-s-new-chief-has-sky-high-plans-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/10/31/camra-s-new-chief-has-sky-high-plans-1 Jane Peyton calls on the government to promote our national drink by making it available at parliamentary and embassy dinners and events. The French, she says, wouldn't serve imported wine at official functions yet all too often British government event serve wine rather than home-grown beer. Sign her petition! Thu, 30 Oct 2014 13:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/10/30/time-to-put-beer-on-the-top-table https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/10/30/time-to-put-beer-on-the-top-table Beer found in a shipwreck off the Finnish coast has been dated back to 1842 and has been recreated by brewing scientists at the University of Leuven in Belgium. Research shows the beer was made by spontaneous fermentation and probably came from a Belgian lambic brewery Sun, 26 Oct 2014 19:37:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/26/shipwreck-beer-brought-back-to-life https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/26/shipwreck-beer-brought-back-to-life Brewmaster Derek Prentice, who worked for Truman's before joining Young's and then Fuller's, has helped the new Truman's Brewery in Hackney Wick to create an Export Pale Ale based on a Victorian recipe, using no fewer than eight hops and the original Truman's yeast Sat, 18 Oct 2014 18:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/10/18/beer-legend-prentice-brings-back-a-truman-pale-ale-from-victorian-times https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/10/18/beer-legend-prentice-brings-back-a-truman-pale-ale-from-victorian-times Beer Sommelier Jane Peyton says it's time to bang the drum for British hops and to wax lyrical about the need to have balanced beers in which malt and hops are in harmony. She has no problem with the big citrus character of New World hops but says drinkers must be encouraged to enjoy the more subtle yet distinctive character of home-grown varieties Mon, 13 Oct 2014 08:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/10/13/time-to-make-british-hops-hip https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/10/13/time-to-make-british-hops-hip Hogs Back Brewery in Tongham, Surrey, has joined forces with renowned chocolatier Montezuma to produce a lager with a dash of real chocolate. The beer flies in the face of the convention that chocolate, with its fat content, can't be added during the brewing process. The beer is lagered for five weeks and offers both malt, hops and chocolate -- just in time for National Chocolate Week Sat, 11 Oct 2014 11:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/11/surrey-hog-bristles-with-chocolate-delight https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/11/surrey-hog-bristles-with-chocolate-delight Lacons Brewery, brought back from the dead in 2013, has won a prestigious Gold Award in the SIBA East Anglia competition. Batemans of Wainfleet, Lincolnshire, has scooped a top prize for its Black Pepper Ale in the World Beer Awards. Acorn Brewery just goes on winning prizes for its Barnsley Bitter. Pictured: Lacon's Mick Carver with William Lacon of the brewing family Tue, 07 Oct 2014 11:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/07/round-up-lacons-scoops-top-beer-prize-bateman-s-spices-up-its-awards-acorn-is-cock-of-the-walk-with-barnsley-bitter https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/07/round-up-lacons-scoops-top-beer-prize-bateman-s-spices-up-its-awards-acorn-is-cock-of-the-walk-with-barnsley-bitter For the first time in more than 100 years, hops have been grown and harvested in London. Meantime Brewery, based in Greenwich, planted Fuggles on the banks of the river behind the O2 Arena. They were picked by volunteers and will be used in a new bottled beer later this year Fri, 03 Oct 2014 08:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/03/hop-harvest-on-banks-of-the-thames https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/10/03/hop-harvest-on-banks-of-the-thames The Red Lion at Snargate in Kent has been run by the same family for more than 100 years and is a fine example of an old ale house that has hardly changed for centuries. Doris Jemison, now in her 80s, still sits in the pub every day, surrounded by WWII memorabilia and traditional pub games Wed, 01 Oct 2014 10:32:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/10/01/the-little-pub-that-time-forgot https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/10/01/the-little-pub-that-time-forgot Ten cask beers from breweries all round the world will be on sale at Wetherpoon's pubs throughout Britain during a 17-day autumn beer festival. They will be joined by up to 40 beers from British breweries. Brewers from the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Italy and Belgium have brewed cask versions of their ales for the occasion. Five of the beers have been produced by "brewsters" or women brewers and two British brewsters have also added their ales to the range Mon, 29 Sep 2014 12:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/29/feast-of-foreign-beers-at-spoons-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/29/feast-of-foreign-beers-at-spoons-fest The Ferry Boat Inn at Thorganby near York closed on 27 September and will become private housing. Gavin Aitchison reports on the sad end to an unspoilt ale house that has been run by the same family since 1934 Sun, 28 Sep 2014 17:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/09/28/the-tide-goes-out-at-the-ferry-boat-inn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/09/28/the-tide-goes-out-at-the-ferry-boat-inn The Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway is the world's smallest passenger train service, founded by two millionaires in the 1920s, one of whom -- Count Louis Zbrowski -- owned the original Chitty Chitty Bang Bang racing car. The RH&D criss-crosses the Romney Marsh and offers passengers the chance to visit some ancient pubs, Martello Towers and to spot Derek Jarman's beach cottage at Dungeness. And Hythe was once home to the famous milk stout, Mackeson Fri, 26 Sep 2014 09:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2014/09/26/the-little-train-line-with-a-big-heart https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2014/09/26/the-little-train-line-with-a-big-heart Cyclops, the beer accreditation scheme, is getting greater recognition and support from both beer drinkers and publicans. Drinkers say they would try more cask beers if some indication of aroma and flavour was displayed on pump clips. Thu, 25 Sep 2014 14:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/25/beer-drinkers-say-eye-eye-to-cyclops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/25/beer-drinkers-say-eye-eye-to-cyclops The 2014 Cask Ale Report, compiled by Pete Brown, says real ale is the beer of the moment, with new breweries opening on almost a daily basis and pubs offering a vast range of beers. But perceptions need to change, the report adds, as many publicans still believe cask beer is drunk by "beardie weirdies". And publicans are criticised for selling cask ale too cheaply -- almost £1 a pint less than craft keg. Thu, 25 Sep 2014 08:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/25/cask-ale-forging-ahead-says-brown-report https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/25/cask-ale-forging-ahead-says-brown-report Black Sheep Best Bitter, the biggest-selling cask beer in Yorkshire, has been given a makeover to give it more nationwide appeal to drinkers in an ever-more fiercely competitive pub trade. And the packaged version is now in an eco-friendly lightweight bottle that's on sale in all supermarket chains Wed, 24 Sep 2014 10:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/24/new-look-black-sheep-to-hit-more-baas https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/24/new-look-black-sheep-to-hit-more-baas Edinburgh-based Innis & Gunn aims to heal the referendum divisions in Scotland with a new oak-aged beer, Rare Oak Pale Ale, that uses oak hewn from forests in the Scottish Borders. Sweet Gale is added to hops to give a spicy and refreshing flavour Tue, 23 Sep 2014 13:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2014/09/23/new-scots-ale-to-delight-unite-uk https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2014/09/23/new-scots-ale-to-delight-unite-uk Eddie Gadd at Ramsgate Brewery will take a special beer brewed with the first hops of the harvest to a Belgian beer festival hosted by ground-breaking craft brewery De Molen. Back in Kent, all the county's brewers will parade Green Hop beers at a festival in Canterbury Mon, 22 Sep 2014 09:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/22/kent-green-hop-beer-heads-to-belgium https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/22/kent-green-hop-beer-heads-to-belgium Gary and Alison Walters have built a brewery and bar in a former railway shed alongside Ludlow Station in Shropshire where they brew a variety of beers using locally-grown Maris Otter barley and hops from a local farm. The brewery tap welcomes both locals and visitors who can hop off the train for a pint before visiting the town with its castle and magnificent half-timbered medieval and Tudor buildings Wed, 17 Sep 2014 08:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2014/09/17/ludlow-on-the-fast-track-to-success https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2014/09/17/ludlow-on-the-fast-track-to-success So what is "craft beer"? Georgie Denny and Deborah Finding of design research agency The Big Picture find out how drinkers define -- and choose the beer of the moment, such as BrewDog with its redesigned labels Mon, 15 Sep 2014 11:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/09/15/craft-the-word-on-every-drinker-s-lips https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/09/15/craft-the-word-on-every-drinker-s-lips Beers from a Hatfield brewery in Hertfordshire that closed in 1920 have been recreated by the 3 Brewers and will feature at the St Albans beer festival this month. Pryor Reid was a major brewer and the biggest employer in Hatfield but closed following the death of the chairman's son in WWI. Now Petar Zivkovic (seen left) with Mark Fanner and Petar's brother Nick have recreated a mild and a porter using Pryor Reid's recipes Sun, 14 Sep 2014 11:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/14/victorian-beers-come-back-from-the-grave https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/14/victorian-beers-come-back-from-the-grave Rooster's head brewer Oliver Fozard made a dawn dash from North Yorkshire to Worcestershire to pick up the first Phoenix hops of the harvest from Stocks Farm then hurried back to the brewery to make a Fresh Hop beer. He believes it's the first time a beer using harvest-fresh hops has been made in the north of England. Wed, 10 Sep 2014 10:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/10/up-with-the-lark-for-first-hops-of-harvest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/10/up-with-the-lark-for-first-hops-of-harvest Guinness has dug deep into its archives to revive two versions of Porter from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Dublin Porter was the drink of the working man in the Irish capital -- immortalised in the writings of Flann O'Brien and J P Donleavy -- while West Indies Porter is typical of the strong beers exported to all parts of the British Empire Tue, 09 Sep 2014 13:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/09/guinness-brings-dublin-porter-back-to-life https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/09/guinness-brings-dublin-porter-back-to-life A rare beer fount for Budweiser Budvar, dating from the communist period in Czechoslovakia, still serves the iconic lager beer at the renowned Babbity Bowster bar in Glasgow. It was installed in 1989 at the time of the Velvet Revolution and as a result of its historic connections there have been many attempts to buy it. But the owners of Babbity Bowster says they have no intention of letting it go. But they did consent to allow Budvar to refurbish the treasured fount Fri, 05 Sep 2014 19:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/05/rare-budvar-pump-graces-glasgow-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/05/rare-budvar-pump-graces-glasgow-pub Father Toby Sims, a priest in the Russian Orthodox Church, blessed the Christmas Ale at Harvey's Brewery in Lewes, East Sussex on 4 September. Father Sims is studying to become a commercial brewer and hopes to follow in the footsteps of the famous Belgian Trappist monks Fri, 05 Sep 2014 07:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/05/priest-blesses-christmas-beer-in-lewes https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/05/priest-blesses-christmas-beer-in-lewes Belhaven in Dunbar has joined the growing list of Scottish brewers ageing beer with the aid of whisky. Speyside Oak Aged Blonde Ale is matured with oak chips steeped in Speyside malt whisky Wed, 03 Sep 2014 20:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/03/chips-are-down-for-new-scots-whisky-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/03/chips-are-down-for-new-scots-whisky-beer Fast-growing Scottish brewer and bar owner BrewDog is tackling binge drinking and the cult of the lager lout with a true Pilsner beer that will restore the style to its proper place in the pantheon of brewing. This.Is.Lager, says co-founder James Watt, is taking the beer back to its root and challenging mass-marketed global brands. But Charlie McVeigh, founder of the Draft House pub chain, has hit back at BrewDog and its attack on commercial lagers. He sells draught unpasteurised Czech Pilsner Urquell Tue, 02 Sep 2014 19:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/02/keep-taking-the-pils-says-brewdog https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/02/keep-taking-the-pils-says-brewdog Suffolk brewer Adnams is urging beer lovers to look out for wild hops or hops grown in gardens that can be used in a special Wild Hop beer. Head brewer Fergus Fitzgerald (pictured) will blend the wild hops with cultivated ones for the brew Mon, 01 Sep 2014 12:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/01/suffolk-brewer-in-wild-hop-request https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/09/01/suffolk-brewer-in-wild-hop-request British hops, faced by the threat of extinction, are making a sturdy come back, thanks to the work of Ali Capper (pictured), who farms with her husband Richard in Worcestershire. She has rejuvenated the British Hop Association and working with hop expert Dr Peter Darby has introduced a new variety, Endeavour, which has the citrus notes demanded by many craft brewers Sat, 30 Aug 2014 12:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/08/30/britain-s-hops-are-bouncing-back https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/08/30/britain-s-hops-are-bouncing-back Al Murray, the Pub Landlord, will host a short series of programmes on Channel 5 featuring Burton brewer Marston's, famous for its Pedigree pale ale and Union system of fermentatilon Tue, 26 Aug 2014 14:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/26/al-murray-in-boost-for-marston-s-and-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/26/al-murray-in-boost-for-marston-s-and-beer Batemans of Wainfleet and Thwaites of Blackburn, two leading family brewers, have walked away with a host of top awards in international beer competitions, proving that innovation can reap a rich reward. Pictured: Jaclyn and Stuart Bateman, the fourth generation to run the Lincolnshire brewery. Hawkshead in Cumbria is sending a pale ale made with New Zealand hops by its Kiwi head brewer to a beer festival Down Under Fri, 22 Aug 2014 11:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/22/batemans-and-thwaites-win-top-awards-as-hawkshead-sends-kiwi-beer-down-under https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/22/batemans-and-thwaites-win-top-awards-as-hawkshead-sends-kiwi-beer-down-under Kirrily Waldhorn, Australia's Beer Diva, will host a beer event with Roger Protz on 22 September at the Token House pub in London's Moorgate. Down Under, Kirrily holds beer events in such celebrated venues as Sydney Opera House and appears regularly on radio and TV Wed, 20 Aug 2014 09:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/20/top-aussie-beer-host-set-for-london-event https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/20/top-aussie-beer-host-set-for-london-event Beer sommelier Jane Peyton of the School of Booze says it's a great time for drinking beer -- but there's a schism in the ranks as real ale and craft keg drinkers bandy insults. She argues that all lovers of good beer should join forces Mon, 18 Aug 2014 20:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/08/18/stop-the-squabbles--we-need-a-united-front-to-champion-all-good-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2014/08/18/stop-the-squabbles--we-need-a-united-front-to-champion-all-good-beer Research shows that more people will switch to cask beer if they''re given information about the beers. CAMRA is urging brewers to use pump clips attached to handpumps on bars to give short tasting notes about their beers Fri, 15 Aug 2014 20:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/15/pumping-up-interest-for-cask-beer-drinkers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/15/pumping-up-interest-for-cask-beer-drinkers A tasting of three lager beers in Stockholm has come up with the conclusion that all lagers taste the same -- and this is good news, the organisers claim, as drinkers are not looking for wide variations in taste. But why choose just three beers and leave out some of the great Czech and German beers that do offer a wide variety of character. As Budweiser Budvar (brewhouse pictured left) proves, long ageing of beer leads to rich taste Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/08/14/all-lagers-the-same-adjust-your-tastebuds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/08/14/all-lagers-the-same-adjust-your-tastebuds Shepherd Neame, England's oldest brewery, based in the heart of the Kent hop fields in Faversham, has added a keg stout to its range of specialist "Steam Brewery" range. The beer reflects the history of the area, when the coastal town of Whitstable was famous for its oysters in the 19th century Wed, 13 Aug 2014 11:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/13/all-steamed-up-for-new-oyster-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/13/all-steamed-up-for-new-oyster-stout Yorkshire brewer Timothy Taylor, which has won the Champion Beer of Britain award four times with Landlord Best Bitter, scored a stunning victory at the Great British Beer Festival with its Best Bitter, renamed Boltmaker to celebrate a traditional trade in Keighley. Pictured (left to right) marketing director Grant Simpson, managing director Charles Dent and head brewer Peter Eels Tue, 12 Aug 2014 16:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/12/bolt-from-the-blue-tim-taylor-wins-gold https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/12/bolt-from-the-blue-tim-taylor-wins-gold The Campaign for Real ale is launching a petition at the Great British Beer Festival that calls on the government to close loopholes in planning laws that currently allows Tesco and other retailers to convert pubs against the wishes of beer drinkers and local communities Tue, 12 Aug 2014 08:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/12/camra-call-to-stop-tesco-pubs-grab https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/08/12/camra-call-to-stop-tesco-pubs-grab Centuries ago British brewers guarded their recipes like state secrets. Now work at Shepherd Neame in Kent has broken beer codes to reveal the pale, IPA and stout brewed in the 19th century while at Brakspear in Henley the brewer used a form of shorthand to stop rivals stealing his recipes. Left, three of the old beers recreated by Shepherd Neame Sat, 09 Aug 2014 09:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/08/09/beer-and-the-secrets-in-the-cellar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/08/09/beer-and-the-secrets-in-the-cellar The brewery at Traquair House in the Scottish Borders dates from the 18th century and was restored by the 20th Laird Peter Maxwell Stuart in 1965. The house and brewery are now run by his daughter Catherine and both House Ale and Jacobite Ale are exported to many countries, including the United States and Italy. The house dates from the 12th century, Mary Queen of Scots had sanctuary there and Bonnie Prince Charlie visited during his campaign to win back the throne Tue, 05 Aug 2014 19:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/08/05/unlocking-the-gates-to-traquair-historic-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/08/05/unlocking-the-gates-to-traquair-historic-ale The brewery that produces the revered Sint Bernardus beer in Watou, Belgium, has its roots in the rich history of monastic brewing in Flanders. But, having lost its links to the Sint Sixtus monastery, it is installing a new brewhouse to keep pace with the world-wide demand for its abbey ales Mon, 28 Jul 2014 11:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/28/rich-in-history-but-sint-bernard-looks-to-the-future-for-world-sales-of-abbey-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/28/rich-in-history-but-sint-bernard-looks-to-the-future-for-world-sales-of-abbey-beer Wine expert and Champagne guru Christian Holthausen says beer is more complex than wine due to the use of a wide range of ingredients and can be a better companion at the dining table Fri, 25 Jul 2014 19:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/25/wine-guru-says-beer-can-be-best-with-food https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/25/wine-guru-says-beer-can-be-best-with-food Julie Depypere and Maarten Ghequire, from proud brewing backgrounds, have combined forces to launch De Kazematten, a new brewery built into the city ramparts in Ypres/Ieper in Belgium. The first beer, Wipers Time,s commemorates the newsaper produced by British troops during the war, using an old printing press found in the caves Sat, 19 Jul 2014 14:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/19/ramparts-brewery-salutes-ypres-wwi-history-and-the-role-of-british-tommies https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/19/ramparts-brewery-salutes-ypres-wwi-history-and-the-role-of-british-tommies Bradford is to get its first new brewery since Hammonds closed in the 1950s.. The 10-barrel plant, due to open by the end of the year, is the brainchild of Matthew Halliday, who ran a charity in London and was impressed by the spread of craft brewing in the capital. The new Bradford Brewery is part-funded by the city council and will have an onsite pub where drinkers can watch their beer being brewed. Left, an architect's impression of the brewery Mon, 14 Jul 2014 19:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/07/14/no-bull-bradford-to-get-a-new-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/07/14/no-bull-bradford-to-get-a-new-brewery Neil Midgley loves wood and he uses oak casks made for his pub, the Junction in Castleford, West Yorkshire, to serve a wide range of beers stored in wooden casks in the pub cellar (pictured). A tasting of beer from conventional casks and oak proved that wood can give added dimensions to aroma and flavour Thu, 10 Jul 2014 17:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/10/the-pub-where-wood-is-in-pole-position https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/07/10/the-pub-where-wood-is-in-pole-position Stuidents at Heriot-Watt University's School of Brewing have devised a classic India Pale Ale using all English hops. The beer has been brewed at Stewart's Brewing at Loanhead, which specialises in classic traditional beers. Pictured are students (left to right) Amaey Mundkur, Doug Rowe, Jonathan Hammond, Ben Thompson and Craig Thomas Mon, 07 Jul 2014 22:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/07/07/students-brew-classic-ipa-with-uk-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/07/07/students-brew-classic-ipa-with-uk-hops Tim Skelton's new Beer in the Netherlands guide book shows that craft brewing is booming there and the country no longer hides in the giant shadow cast by Belgian beer. The book lists all the breweries and the best bars, and is a boon companion for beer lovers visiting the country Sat, 05 Jul 2014 14:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2014/07/05/the-craft-beer-revolution-is-going-dutch https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2014/07/05/the-craft-beer-revolution-is-going-dutch Home brewers and a commercial brewery have combined forces to create a special Magna Carta Ale that will help celebrate the 800th anniversary of the signing of the "Great Charter" in 2015. London Amateur Brewers were offered the chance to create medieval recipes by Windsor & Eton Brewery and the chosen beer was created by osteopath Man Birdi, pictured with his daughter Jani at the brewery with the four founding members. Thu, 03 Jul 2014 10:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/07/03/medieval-beer-marks-magna-carta-signing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/07/03/medieval-beer-marks-magna-carta-signing British pub operator J D Wetherspoon will hit Dublin in a big way with its first pub, the Three Tun Tavern, in the Irish Republic -- and it will give a dramatic boost to cask beer, with up to 12 pumps serving real ale from both Irish and British breweries. Pub manager John Hartigan (pictured) has run a Wetherspoon pub in North London and is looking forward to offering a wide range of beers to Dubliners. -- but don't ask for a Guinness Mon, 30 Jun 2014 17:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/30/wetherspoons-hits-dublin-with-cask-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/30/wetherspoons-hits-dublin-with-cask-beer Beer from a new brewery in Hertfordshire has become a cult drink in the restaurants run by Andrei Lussmann. 3 Brewers' Classic English Ale is so popular with diners that Andrei and his head chef Richard Cramer are planning beer-and-food matching menus. Pictured: Mark Fanner, left, of 3 Brewers, with Andrei Lussmann, and Richard Bull who supplies the restaurants with apple juice from local orchards Fri, 27 Jun 2014 20:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/27/beer-finds-favour-in-top-restaurants https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/27/beer-finds-favour-in-top-restaurants Yorkshire family brewer Theakstons is searching for an apprentice cooper to join Jonathan Manby in building wooden casks. Theakston's is the only remaining family brewery in the country that still employs a full-time cooper and it needs an extra pair of hands to keep pace with the demand for its cask beers served from the wood Wed, 25 Jun 2014 23:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/25/wood-you-believe-it-yorkshire-brewery-seeks-a-young-cooper-to-meet-ale-demand https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/25/wood-you-believe-it-yorkshire-brewery-seeks-a-young-cooper-to-meet-ale-demand Cyclops, the brewing industry's model for beer tasting, was launched to increase the appreciation of cask ale. But now the system has been redesigned to encompass lager and modern 'craft keg' as well Tue, 24 Jun 2014 21:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/24/cyclops-casts-beady-eye-on-lager-keg https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/24/cyclops-casts-beady-eye-on-lager-keg The Cesu Alus brewery in Latvia dates from the 1590s and has produced beers by spontaneous fermentation, ale techniques and the lager method. The brewery is now part of the Finnish Olvi group, which has invested heavily to boost production. The lager beers are well made and properly matured but Baltic stouts and porters are hard to find these days Mon, 23 Jun 2014 15:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/06/23/beer-booms-in-baltic-but-stout-hard-to-find https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/06/23/beer-booms-in-baltic-but-stout-hard-to-find Marston's, one of Britain's leading brewing groups, says sales of Premium Bottled Ales are growing at such a pace that the sector will be worth £1 billion a year by 2010. Innovation in the sector appeals to drinkers, according to Marston's, with gold and blond beers attracting most attention. But the main driver is Hobgoblin, which grew sales by 20% over the past 12 months Sun, 22 Jun 2014 09:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/22/big-brewer-says-bottle-sales-set-to-soar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/22/big-brewer-says-bottle-sales-set-to-soar The White Hart in Witham, Essex, has a new ground-floor 'cellar' with a big range of cask ales on view to customers. The Greene King pub will showcase its own cask beers along with ales from micro-breweries in East Anglia. Landlord Dave Arnott is seen tapping a pint Fri, 20 Jun 2014 20:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/20/see-through-cellar-taps-into-cask-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/20/see-through-cellar-taps-into-cask-ale North-west supermarket group Booths has commissioned special beers from craft brewers in the region for an in-store festival of beer and cider this summer. Customers will be able to try samples of the beers before buying. The range includes a black IPA and a lemongrass beer. Pictured: checking casks at Hawkshead Brewery Thu, 19 Jun 2014 09:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/19/craft-beers-head-for-booths-summer-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/19/craft-beers-head-for-booths-summer-fest American home-brewers have voted in their annual poll Pliny the Elder from Russian River Brewing the best beer in the United States. The poll is conducted by Zymurgy magazine and it's the sixth year running that Russian River has walked off with the top prize Wed, 18 Jun 2014 20:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/18/best-beers-in-the-u-s-are-unveiled https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/18/best-beers-in-the-u-s-are-unveiled Bloggers Boak & Bailey have moved to the printed page to present a vivid portrait of the beer revolution, from the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood, through CAMRA, SIBA and the modern craft movement Wed, 18 Jun 2014 14:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2014/06/18/hail-the-ale-vivid-history-of-beer-s-rebirth https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2014/06/18/hail-the-ale-vivid-history-of-beer-s-rebirth The Highgate Brewery in Walsall was famous for brewing only dark beers -- Mild and Old. At its peak, it brewed 100,00 barrels a year.But sold by Bass in 1995, it struggled to survive and was eventually bought by property developers who will turn the Grade-II listed site into flats Tue, 17 Jun 2014 04:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/17/highgate-end-of-dark-mild-era-in-walsall https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/17/highgate-end-of-dark-mild-era-in-walsall Colin Keatley restored good beer and choice to Norwich with his first Fat Cat pub. Now there are three Fat Cats in the city, including one with its own brewery. As well as beers from all over Britain and the rest of the world, the pubs pay homage to the great Norwich breweries destroyed by Watneys in the 1960s and 70s Mon, 16 Jun 2014 05:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/06/16/fat-cats-where-drinkers-purr-with-pleasure-and-salute-lost-breweries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/06/16/fat-cats-where-drinkers-purr-with-pleasure-and-salute-lost-breweries Val Spencer -- aka Life Long Landlady -- runs the Cock in Lavenham, Suffolk and is a leading campaigner via Twitter for reform of the pubco model and the need for a market-rent option for licensees. In typical Twitter style, she expresses her disappointment at Business Secretary Vince Cable's watered-down pubco proposals Wed, 11 Jun 2014 08:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/11/vince-cable-we-need-mro-bis-plan-not-enough-to-saveourpubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/11/vince-cable-we-need-mro-bis-plan-not-enough-to-saveourpubs Organisers of Norwich City of Ale -- the annual event that unites drinkers, pubs and breweries -- met members of the Parliamentary Beer Group on 9 June to share their experiences and suggest that other British cities could follow Norwich's lead. Organisers Dawn Leeder and Phil Cutter are seen with Andrew Griffiths MP, chair of the Beer Group Tue, 10 Jun 2014 20:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/10/mps-praise-norwich-stars-of-city-of-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/10/mps-praise-norwich-stars-of-city-of-ale Two of Yorkshire's top pub chefs, James Mackenzie (left) of the Pipe & Glass and Andrew Pern of the Star, have pooled their love of beer and food to launch a honey beer specially designed to match their dishes. And in Acton in London an old coaching inn has had a brewery installed where the beers are used as companions for food Sat, 07 Jun 2014 19:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/07/top-chefs-launch-own-beer-to-match-food https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/07/top-chefs-launch-own-beer-to-match-food Simon Clarke, both a chartered surveyor and publican, is a leading light in the Fair Pint campaign seeking a better deal from pubcos. He argues that the response by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) to Vince Cable's proposals for pubco reform is woefully inadequate and ignores the fact that beer is cheaper on the open market Sat, 07 Jun 2014 10:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/07/bbpa-wake-up-and-smell-the-coffee https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/07/bbpa-wake-up-and-smell-the-coffee Two leading artisan breweries -- Saltaire in Yorkshire and Dark Star in Sussex -- have produced a collaboration beer, Le IPA, to greet the Tour de France as cyclists wheel their way through Yorkshire en route to France Sat, 07 Jun 2014 09:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/07/beer-gets-on-its-bike-to-welcome-le-tour https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/07/beer-gets-on-its-bike-to-welcome-le-tour David Bruce, famous founder of the Firkins, is now in the chair at West Berkshire Brewery and has brought back Dogbolter, his legendary strong ale from Firkin days Fri, 06 Jun 2014 09:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/06/bruce-brings-old-ale-out-of-the-dog-kennel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/06/06/bruce-brings-old-ale-out-of-the-dog-kennel Proposals in the Queen's Speech for pubco reform from Vince Cable and Nick Clegg stop short of meeting demands for a real shake-up that will give tenants a market-only rent option to widen drinkers' choice. And nothing in the plans will prevent the closure of pubs, running at 28 a week Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/03/cable-proposals-won-t-stop-pub-closures https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/03/cable-proposals-won-t-stop-pub-closures In an Open Letter to Business Secretary Vince Cable, Roger Protz says the delays to Dr Cable's report into the pub companies is causing great concern for pub tenants and pubgoers. As a result of their debt mountains, Enterprise and Punch are selling off viable pubs and closing down vital community assets. The time for action is now Sun, 01 Jun 2014 09:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/01/dear-dr-cable-no-more-shilly-shallying-it-s-time-to-get-tough-with-the-pubcos https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/06/01/dear-dr-cable-no-more-shilly-shallying-it-s-time-to-get-tough-with-the-pubcos Hogs Back Brewery is planting its own hops -- and has restored the Farnham White Bine variety that disappeared decades ago and was the predecessor of the famous Kent Golding. Brewery chairman Rupert Thompson (in panama hat) is seen with a group of volunteers who helped plant the first bines Fri, 30 May 2014 18:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/30/surrey-digs-deep-to-restore-hop-tradition https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/30/surrey-digs-deep-to-restore-hop-tradition Chiltern Brewery near Aylesbury has created a special strong Flanders Ale that reaches out to all sides involved in the First World War. The style is pale ale that was popular in both Britain and Belgium and it uses both Belgian hops and malt from Germany. Pictured: brewers Tom Jenkinson (left) and Dave McGovern (right) with "assistant brewer" Roger Protz Tue, 20 May 2014 19:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/20/flanders-ale-salutes-tommies-belgians https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/20/flanders-ale-salutes-tommies-belgians Ali Capper of the British Hop Association is urging craft brewers in Britain to switch to home-grown varieties as the price of "fashionable" American hops soars with the growth of new brewers in the U.S. Mon, 19 May 2014 13:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/19/as-u-s-hops-soar-in-price-craft-brewers-are-urged-to-use-home-grown-varieties https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/19/as-u-s-hops-soar-in-price-craft-brewers-are-urged-to-use-home-grown-varieties Windsor & Eton Brewery has launched a competition for amateur brewers to develop a special Magna Carta beer to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the signing of the "Great Charter" in June 2015. The brewery has invited members of the London Amatuer Brewers to design beers and the winner will be invited to brew on the W&E plant. A special label has been designed by artist Graham Clarke, seen (left) in his studio with the brewery's marketing director Bob Morrison Mon, 19 May 2014 11:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/19/magna-carta-will-be-a-beer-for-the-people https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/19/magna-carta-will-be-a-beer-for-the-people Pub landlords and CAMRA members delivered a petition to Business Secretary Vince Cable yesterday demanding action to save pubs from closure and to curb the power of the giant pubcos. But it's strongly rumoured that Dr Cable's promised report on pubcos will not now appear before the general election Thu, 15 May 2014 09:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/15/save-pubs-petition-delivered-to-cable https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/15/save-pubs-petition-delivered-to-cable Innis & Gunn, the Edinburgh-based innovators of wood-aged beer, have gone on a Grand Tour of the country's five whisky-producing regions. They have aged an amber ale style known as "a Wee Heavy" in oak barrels garnered from major distillers. Tue, 13 May 2014 16:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2014/05/13/brewers-do-whisky-s-grand-tour https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2014/05/13/brewers-do-whisky-s-grand-tour Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire -- famous as the birthplace of Graham Greene -- lost its last brewery 100 years ago. But now seven enthusiasts, including brewer Scott Carter (pictured), have brought brewing back to the town in smart premises alongside the Grand Union Canal Tue, 13 May 2014 11:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/13/beer-is-back-in-graham-greene-birthplace https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/13/beer-is-back-in-graham-greene-birthplace St Austell brewery has launched a Belgian-style sour fruit beer made with the addition of cherries. The fruit was picked last summer at an orchard in the Tamar Valley and was then crushed by foot, including the feet of head brewer Roger Ryman. Sat, 10 May 2014 10:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/10/cornish-cherry-beer-is-up-the-kriek https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/10/cornish-cherry-beer-is-up-the-kriek CAMRA's Greater London Region has appealed to mayor Boris Johnson to include greater protection for the capital's pubs in his Plan for London. The campaign wants to stop pubs being turned into supermarkets or betting shops and will hold an open seminar at the end of May Fri, 09 May 2014 10:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/09/camra-in-pub-appeal-to-london-mayor https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/09/camra-in-pub-appeal-to-london-mayor High Street drinks retailer Oddbins has launched its own range of beers brewed by Compass, a craft brewery in Oxfordshire. The range includes a German-style Kolsch beer brewed with smoked malt. Oddbins also wants to appoint a Beer Taster who will advise on more beers for the group to stock -- the job is unpaid but Oddbins promises plenty of free beer! Thu, 08 May 2014 11:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/08/high-street-indie-launches-own-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/08/high-street-indie-launches-own-beer Sales of craft beer in Portland, Oregon, have overtaken those from industry giants AB InBev and MillerCoors. Craft beer now enjoys a 45.8% market share compared to the giants' 40.6%. It's the first American city to record a leading market share for independent brewers Tue, 06 May 2014 10:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/06/craft-is-king-in-american-city https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/05/06/craft-is-king-in-american-city Since 1992, Tim Webb (pictured) has been chronicling the amazing beers available in Belgium. As global brewers flood the market with the likes of Stella and Jupiler, it seemed that artisan styles would disappear. But as the seventh edition of Good Beer Guide Belgium proves, craft breweries are now on the increase with an even greater variety of amazing styles Sun, 04 May 2014 20:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2014/05/04/belgian-guide-now-it-s-the-magnificent-7th https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2014/05/04/belgian-guide-now-it-s-the-magnificent-7th Golden Ale is thought of as a relatively new addition to the portfolio of beer styles. But when Shepherd Neame was digging into 19th century recipe books it discovered that a golden Brilliant Ale was brewed before IPA and became a brewery best seller. Pictured are the three beers in Shep's Classic Collection of recreated beers from Victorian times Fri, 02 May 2014 13:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/02/golden-ale-beer-style-that-s-a-golden-oldie https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/02/golden-ale-beer-style-that-s-a-golden-oldie The fourth City of Ale will be a festival of good beer and good pubs from 22 May to 1 June. Brewers throughout East Anglia and pubs in the city will join forces to promote the region's great range of fine ales. City of Ale is the brainchild of Dawn Leeder and Phil Cutter, seen in the Compleat Angler, one of many pubs in the city supporting the festival. Thu, 01 May 2014 11:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/01/norwich-gears-up-for-beer-bonanza https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/05/01/norwich-gears-up-for-beer-bonanza The Campaign for Real Ale's annual conference called for action against giant pubcos to be stepped up and criticised the slowness of Business Secretary Vince Cable to publish his proposals that will tackle the tactics of Enterprise and Punch. National chairman Colin Valentine (pictured) stressed the importance of the scrapping of the beer duty escalator and two cuts in duty. Mon, 28 Apr 2014 12:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/28/call-for-tough-action-on-pubco-reform https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/28/call-for-tough-action-on-pubco-reform Hogs Back Brewery near Farnham in Surrey is planting its own hop field, restoring the old country link between brewing and hop growing. The main variety will be Farnham White Bine, the predecessor of the Kent Golding. An English version of Cascade will also be grown. The picture shows Hogs Back managing director Rupert Thompson in green with Bill Biddell of Hampton Estates, which grows Fuggles for the brewery, with members of the Hogs Back team Mon, 21 Apr 2014 09:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/21/hogs-back-restores-historic-hop-to-surrey https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/21/hogs-back-restores-historic-hop-to-surrey The Fox & Goose pub in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, looked doomed to close when the landlady became ill. But locals formed a co-op that raised the money to pub the local and save it from the hands of the dreaded 'pubcos' Thu, 17 Apr 2014 16:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/17/why-the-fox-s-goose-wasn-t-cooked https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/17/why-the-fox-s-goose-wasn-t-cooked Brewery veteran Dick Burge has put his mashing boots back on to rescue the ailing Growler Brewery in Essex. The former Nethergate Brewery had gone into administration but Burge has stepped in to re-open it and may revert to its original name Wed, 16 Apr 2014 09:28:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/16/dick-burge-back-to-rescue-growler https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/16/dick-burge-back-to-rescue-growler Phil Evans was a radical artist who drew hard-hitting cartoons for Socialist Worker but later worked with Roger Protz on three books about beer and pubs and also did sketches for the Good Beer Guide. He has died aged 68 Wed, 16 Apr 2014 09:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/16/phil-evans-poet-of-the-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/16/phil-evans-poet-of-the-pub European law may not allow it to be called lambic but Elgood's Brewery in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, is brewing beers made by spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts in the atmosphere. And the first batch of Coolship has taken the United States by storm. Pictured: head brewer Alan Pateman watches the latest batch of Coolship flooding into the open cooling trays Sat, 12 Apr 2014 19:07:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/12/steaming-ahead-a-belgian-style-wild-beer-is-brewed-on-the-edge-of-the-english-fens https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/12/steaming-ahead-a-belgian-style-wild-beer-is-brewed-on-the-edge-of-the-english-fens Beer drinkers can be attracted to certain brands if they like the colours of the labels. An experiment at the Edinburgh Science Festival with Barney's Beer, a local micro-brewery, found that tasters preferred one of two beers from Barney's -- even though the beer in both bottles was identical. The tasters even identified different malt and hop notes in the beer they preferred. Pictured: Andrew Barnett of Barney's Brewery. Sat, 12 Apr 2014 11:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/12/love-the-label-how-colour-boosts-sales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/12/love-the-label-how-colour-boosts-sales After 10 days of fermentation and seven days of conditioning, my Irish Extra Stout, made with the BruBox system, is ready to taste. Will it be heaven or hell? Wed, 09 Apr 2014 10:54:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/09/my-home-brew-it-s-time-for-the-taste-test https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/09/my-home-brew-it-s-time-for-the-taste-test Denis Cox, the voice of Budweiser Budvar in Britain, was feted at the Czech brewery for his years of dedicated work for the Budvar cause. He was given a special beer mug and key to his own box in the 'Brewery Chapel', where supporters of the brewery are thanked for their help in keeping Budavr free from takeover. Denis is seen (left) at the brewery with Roger Protz, the only other Brit to have a box in the chapel Thu, 03 Apr 2014 13:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/03/budvar-champion-hailed-at-czech-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/03/budvar-champion-hailed-at-czech-brewery England's hop farmers are under siege as more and more breweries switch to imported varieties. Growers such as Ali Capper (pictured) are leading the fightback by developing new varieties with modern aromas and flavours Thu, 03 Apr 2014 10:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/03/hopping-for-the-best-to-save-beer-flavour https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/04/03/hopping-for-the-best-to-save-beer-flavour Groups representing publicans and consumers have written to Business Secretary Vince Cable urging to press ahead with pub company reform, including a market rent that will give licensees a decent income and stop them losing their jobs Wed, 02 Apr 2014 10:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/02/cable-urged-to-act-on-pubco-reform https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/04/02/cable-urged-to-act-on-pubco-reform More than 50 British pubs are now owned by their communities, research by CAMRA reveals to mark the start of April's Community Pubs month. Many more have been listed as Assets of Community Value to stop pub companies asset stripping them. One example of a community owned pub is the Norton in the Essex village of Cold Norton, with licensee Debbie Guppy pictured behind the bar Mon, 31 Mar 2014 14:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/31/pub-lovers-join-forces-to-save-their-locals https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/31/pub-lovers-join-forces-to-save-their-locals Highland Brewery on Orkney has won one of the top Gold awards from the Society of Independent Brewers -- SIBA -- for its Island Hopping pale beer. The brewery's Rob Hill (left) is seen receiving his award from SIBA chairman Guy Sheppard. The brewery's success follows hard on the heels of an award for its Porter at CAMRA's National Winter Ales Festival in February Sun, 30 Mar 2014 20:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/30/orkney-s-island-hopping-ale-makes-waves https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/30/orkney-s-island-hopping-ale-makes-waves After many failed attempts at brewing my own beer, I accept a challenge to make a stout from a -- hopefully -- risk-free BruBox. A progress report on the first stage and a little trouble with temperature... Sat, 29 Mar 2014 19:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/29/home-brewing-made-easy-i-hope-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/29/home-brewing-made-easy-i-hope-1 A major feature in the Guardian on the importance of the English Midlands failed to mention Burton-on-Trent and its key role in brewing. A letter from Roger Protz (29 March) has put the record straight. Pictured: Bruce Wilkinson and Geoff Mumford at Burton Bridge Brewery who have helped restore the town's brewing pride Sat, 29 Mar 2014 10:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/29/raise-a-glass-to-burton-beer-town https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/29/raise-a-glass-to-burton-beer-town Villagers in the tiny Devon village of Littlehempston -- population 207 -- have rallied to save their local pub, the Tally Ho Inn, that was threatened with being turned into housing. The inn has been given Asset of Community Value status and 100 villagers became shareholders in the co-op that now runs the pub and which is open for business Tue, 25 Mar 2014 08:58:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/25/villagers-raise-300-000-to-save-their-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/25/villagers-raise-300-000-to-save-their-pub Antwerp is packed with fine bars and taverns, many of them dating back hundreds of years . Robert Dyserynck and Ann Carruet organise Beer Pilgrimages that take beer lovers on a tour of the city's finest hostelries, with time for a small beer at each stop Mon, 24 Mar 2014 18:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/24/rob-and-ann-promise-a-beer-pilgrimage-to-the-historic-taverns-of-old-antwerp https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/24/rob-and-ann-promise-a-beer-pilgrimage-to-the-historic-taverns-of-old-antwerp CAMRA Chief Executive Mike Benner, who has masterminded the public role of the campaign for 10 years, is leaving to become managing director of the Society of Independent Brewers. At its annual conference this month, SIBA overhauled its structure and Benner will play a key role in its political and commercial activities. He is seen (right) with new SIBA chairman Guy Sheppard Mon, 24 Mar 2014 10:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/24/benner-quits-camra-for-top-siba-role https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/24/benner-quits-camra-for-top-siba-role The Czech brewery Budweiser Budvar is bringing its strong 7.5% Special Select beer -- aged for 200 days -- to Britain for the first time on draught. It will be available during the spring period and the unfiltered beer uses hops picked on 3 September and immediately added to the brew. In Prague, the new Czech government has declared that the brewery will remain in state hands while the trademark dispute with AB InBev continues. The brewery's exports are at a record high Sun, 23 Mar 2014 12:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/23/budvar-strong-lager-hits-uk-while-sales-in-czech-republic-reach-an-all-time-high https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/23/budvar-strong-lager-hits-uk-while-sales-in-czech-republic-reach-an-all-time-high Genevieve Upton (pictured) one of Marston's Brewmasters, has helped develop a new range of Revisionist beers that combine flavours from both traditional styles and new world ones with more modern flavours. Genevieve is keen to produce beers that will accompany food Sat, 22 Mar 2014 14:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/22/old-world-meets-new-in-marston-s-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/22/old-world-meets-new-in-marston-s-range The Maxim Brewery in Houghton le Spring has risen from the ashes of tVaux, a large Sunderland brewery asset stripped and closed in the late 1990s. Now Mark Anderson (pictured) and his team have brought back Double Maxim, a legendary strong brown ale, and other Vaux and Wards beers to the region Fri, 21 Mar 2014 09:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/21/maxim-back-at-the-double-to-avenge-the-tragic-loss-of-asset-stripped-giant-vaux https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/21/maxim-back-at-the-double-to-avenge-the-tragic-loss-of-asset-stripped-giant-vaux A bottle of beer thought to date from 1910 has been found at the site of St Piran's Oratory in the sands at Perranporth in Cornwall. The beer is a Walter Hicks' ale brewed at St Austell Brewery and was probably left by a worker engaged in encasing the oratory in concrete to protect it from sea and sand. Brewery archivist Chris Knight (pictured) says there's a drop of beer left in the bottle and it may be possible to identify the actual brew Thu, 20 Mar 2014 17:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/20/digging-up-history-in-a-cornish-beer-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/20/digging-up-history-in-a-cornish-beer-bottle Nicholson's Inns nationwide beer festival, which runs from 24 March to 19 April, will feature an IPA specially brewed by Truman's in East London in collaboration with writer and broadcaster Danny Wallace, whose new novel Who Is Tom Ditto? will be published next month. Danny is pictured in Truman's Brewery at Hackney Wick Thu, 20 Mar 2014 11:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/20/author-danny-wallace-brews-beer-with-truman-s-to-boost-nicholson-s-pub-festival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/20/author-danny-wallace-brews-beer-with-truman-s-to-boost-nicholson-s-pub-festival A penny off the price of a pint, announced today by Chancellor George Osborne has been hailed by both consumers and brewers as another shot in the arm for the fast-growing brewing industry and will help struggling pubs Wed, 19 Mar 2014 14:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/19/brewers-and-drinkers-hail-budget-beer-cut https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/19/brewers-and-drinkers-hail-budget-beer-cut A beer festival in Wetherspoon's pubs nationwide will feature 10 beers from overseas brewers never before seen on cask in Britain. They include beers from the U.S., Australia and South Africa, and they will be joined by a range of British-brewed ales. Pictured: a group of the international brewers in the Crosse Keys in London Wed, 19 Mar 2014 09:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/19/wetherspoon-beer-fest-goes-global https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/19/wetherspoon-beer-fest-goes-global De Rooden Hoed -- the Red Hat -- dates from the 18th century and is a former coaching inn alongside Antwerp cathedral. Today it offers fine dining, with each course carefully and meticulously matched by a great Belgian beer, including the local De Koninck ale that's celebrated in style on the restaurant wall Sun, 16 Mar 2014 17:14:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/16/hang-your-hat-at-an-antwerp-cafe-where-fine-food-is-matched-with-belgian-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/16/hang-your-hat-at-an-antwerp-cafe-where-fine-food-is-matched-with-belgian-beer Old Sodbury Mild from Cotswold Spring Brewery and Independence from Bristol Beer Factory claimed gold awards at the SIBA -- Society of Independent Brewers -- national conference in Sheffield. Pictured (left to right) are Nik Milo from Cotswold Spring, SIBA's Nik Stafford and Jonny Mills from Bristol Beer Factory. The SIBA conference elected Guy Sheppard of Exe Valley Brewery to be its new chairman. He succeeds Keith Bott of Titanic Brewery Fri, 14 Mar 2014 19:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/14/siba-unveils-national-beer-champions https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/14/siba-unveils-national-beer-champions Innovative Edinburgh brewer Innis & Gunn, run by Dougal Sharp (left) has launched a special Irish Whiskey Cask Stout for St Patrick's Day. And it has joined forces with bartender David Ashton-Hyde of the Hinds Head at Bray, owned by Heston Blumenthal, to produce Smokin' Gunn based on the Rauch or smoked beers from Bamberg in Germany Mon, 10 Mar 2014 19:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/10/wood-aged-stout-to-wow-st-patrick-s-day https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/10/wood-aged-stout-to-wow-st-patrick-s-day The docks in the great Belgian city of Antwerp closed in the 1960s but now a warehouse that once stored coffee and tobacco is home to 't Pakhuis brewery and restaurant. Hans Bombeke (left), a tireless lecturer and beer taster in Antwerp, brews there with regular brewer Hans Jensen (centre) and manager Kristof Van Den Ouweland Mon, 10 Mar 2014 08:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/10/from-the-ashes-of-antwerp-s-docks-rises-t-pakhuis-a-brew-pub-with-awesome-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/10/from-the-ashes-of-antwerp-s-docks-rises-t-pakhuis-a-brew-pub-with-awesome-beer Family-owned McMullen's brewery in Hertford has its eyes on London. It has added to its existing pubs in the capital with four more, including the Old Bank of England next to the Law Courts (pictured). The brewery also has outlets in Essex, Berkshire and Hampshire. Fergus McMullen says food is increasingly important to his pubs but sales of his cask beers, including the historic AK, are doing well Sat, 08 Mar 2014 11:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/08/country-brewer-heads-for-the-smoke https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/08/country-brewer-heads-for-the-smoke Marston's has unveiled a new online campaign for Pedigree, the world-famous Burton-brewed pale ale, and at the same time is reaching out younger drinkers with a "New World" version of the beer, using modern hop varieties from Down Under Fri, 07 Mar 2014 17:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/07/pedigree-stresses-its-roots-but-looks-to-the-future-with-blonde-version-of-iconic-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/07/pedigree-stresses-its-roots-but-looks-to-the-future-with-blonde-version-of-iconic-ale Jaclyn and Stuart Bateman are the fourth generation to run the family brewery in Wainfleet, Lincolnshire, and Stuart says he's fed up with being told he's not a 'craft brewer' because it's not a new company. Batemans has responded defiantly by rebranding its ales as craft beers Mon, 03 Mar 2014 09:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/03/bullish-batemans-rebrands-its-craft-ales-with-140-years-of-family-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/03/03/bullish-batemans-rebrands-its-craft-ales-with-140-years-of-family-heritage Independent brewers are enjoying a big growth in sales and demand, according to the annual report by SIBA, the Society of Independent Brewers. Sales were up 7.9% in 2013, which means 3.3 million extra pints of local beer were consumed compared to 2012. Pictured: Keith Bott, chairman of SIBA, who also runs the Titanic Brewery in Stoke-on-Trent Sat, 01 Mar 2014 09:23:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/01/boom-time-for-micros-as-siba-records-big-growth-in-drinkers-demand-for-local-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/03/01/boom-time-for-micros-as-siba-records-big-growth-in-drinkers-demand-for-local-beers At the Publican's Morning Advertiser Beer Innovation Summit held in Burton-on-Trent on 26 February, Roger Protz said such beer styles as India Pale Ale were the vogue as drinkers were looking for malt and hop character in beer and were moving away from bland global brands Wed, 26 Feb 2014 23:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/02/26/beer-the-future-is-flavour https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2014/02/26/beer-the-future-is-flavour CAMRA's National Winter Ales Festival was held in the historic Roundhouse at Derby's Pride Park. The Roundhouse dates from 1839 and has been restored at a cost of £46 million as a conference venue Fri, 21 Feb 2014 19:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/21/images-of-derby-camra-beer-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/21/images-of-derby-camra-beer-fest Dunham Porter from the Dunham Massey Brewery in Altrincham, Greater Manchester, was named Champion Winter Beer of Britain at CAMRA's National Winter Ales festival held in the Roundhouse in Derby. Pictured: beer festival organiser Gillian Hough Wed, 19 Feb 2014 19:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/19/north-west-porter-steals-the-derby-show https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/19/north-west-porter-steals-the-derby-show The crisis at giant pubco Punch Taverns deepens as the group -- with debts totalling £2.3bn -- has been forced to abandon talks with shareholders. If no agreement is reached, the group could be forced into administration and tenants would lose an estimated £20,00 each in lost deposits. Pictured: famous Roscoe Head in Liverpool, owned by Punch Sat, 15 Feb 2014 14:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/15/punch-crisis-could-mean-ruin-for-tenants-if-pubco-goes-bust-and-they-lose-22-6m https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/15/punch-crisis-could-mean-ruin-for-tenants-if-pubco-goes-bust-and-they-lose-22-6m The Swan with Two Necks in the village of Pendleton in Lancashire has won the prestigious National Pub of the Year award from CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale. The Swan beat off competition from pubs throughout the country. Landlord Steve Dilworth has run the pub for 27 years, features Copper Dragon ales as his house beers and says the secret of his success is "talking to the barrels" Wed, 12 Feb 2014 09:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/12/rural-gem-wins-camra-top-pub-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/12/rural-gem-wins-camra-top-pub-award The Watercress Line offers restored trains, the steepest gradients in the country and some fine country pubs where you can sup local brews, including a Champion Beer of Britain. And there are regular train trips with real ale bars, too Mon, 10 Feb 2014 17:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2014/02/10/going-loco-on-a-hampshire-steam-line-with-great-pubs-and-3-breweries-to-visit https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2014/02/10/going-loco-on-a-hampshire-steam-line-with-great-pubs-and-3-breweries-to-visit Robinson's brewery in Stockport is a giant of the North-west, with more than 300 pubs and a brand-new brewhouse built at the cost of £6 million. As well as its regular cask ales, Robinsons has won world-wide acclaim for its Trooper beer, an unlikely collaboration with heavy metal rock group Iron Maiden Sat, 08 Feb 2014 12:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/02/08/heavy-metal-beer-gets-robinsons-rocking https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/02/08/heavy-metal-beer-gets-robinsons-rocking Marston's top brewer Richard Westwood (pictured) is planning to turn several of the group's beers into bottle-conditioned versions thanks to the brewery's new bottling plant in Burton-on-Trent. And Old Empire IPA is high on the agenda with Owd Rodger a possible contender Thu, 06 Feb 2014 17:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/02/06/more-live-beers-planned-in-burton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/02/06/more-live-beers-planned-in-burton Research by CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, reveals that two pubs a week closed in 2012 as a result of takeovers by giant supermarkets. Tesco is by far the worst offender. CAMRA is calling on the government to close a loophole in the law that allows pubs to be turned in to other premises without planning permission Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/06/supermarket-takeovers-destroying-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/06/supermarket-takeovers-destroying-pubs A Guardian trip to Antwerp offers "dinner with wine". Visitors would be best advised to sample some of the great beers of Belgium in specialist bars and restaurants such as Bier Central Wed, 05 Feb 2014 11:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/02/05/antwerp-it-s-city-of-beer-not-wine https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/02/05/antwerp-it-s-city-of-beer-not-wine Burton MP Andrew Griffiths said at the opening of a new £7m bottling line at Marston's that Chancellor George Osborne had told him his Treasury team is looking at the possibility of a further cut in duty in this year's Budget Sat, 01 Feb 2014 09:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/01/osborne-looking-at-duty-cut--burton-mp https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/02/01/osborne-looking-at-duty-cut--burton-mp Ale is enjoying a great revival with record sales over the Christmas period. With standard lager in sharp decline, the future for ale in cask, bottle and keg seems secure. Marston's will feature a special range -- the Revisionist Cask Beer Series (pictured left) -- throughout 2014 while Greene King's new specialist plant is reaping a rich reward Mon, 27 Jan 2014 18:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/27/it-s-boom-time-for-ale-as-lager-sales-dive https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/27/it-s-boom-time-for-ale-as-lager-sales-dive CAMRA's winter beer festival moves to Derby Roundhouse (left), an icon of the steam age; Tim Martin calls for cut in VAT on pub food and drink to 5%; SIBA announces conference and beer festival in Sheffield; Moorhouse's to launch new range of seasonal beers for 2014 Fri, 24 Jan 2014 17:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/24/round-up-winter-ales-fest-wetherspoon-s-boss-on-vat-cut-siba-fest-new-beers-from-moorhouse-s-of-burnley-for-2014 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/24/round-up-winter-ales-fest-wetherspoon-s-boss-on-vat-cut-siba-fest-new-beers-from-moorhouse-s-of-burnley-for-2014 Legendary brewer and pub owner David Bruce -- of Firkin and Slug & Lettuce fame -- is back in business as chairman of West Berkshire Brewery. He is pictured (far left) with brewer Will Twomey and founders Helen and Dave Maggs. There are plans for a new brewery site and expanded sales, with shares on offer to friends, family and supporters in the Thames Valley Thu, 23 Jan 2014 09:56:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/01/23/bruce-bounces-back-in-berkshire https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/01/23/bruce-bounces-back-in-berkshire Business Secretary Vince Cable came under strong criticism in the House of Commons for his slowness in bringing forward plans to reform the giant pub companies. He was speaking during a Labour debate on the need to bring in a statutory code of practice for pubcos. Before the debate, CAMRA's Chief Executive Mike Benner (pictured) said on TV that pubs were closing as a result of high rents and lack of beer choice Wed, 22 Jan 2014 12:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/22/cable-flayed-over-delay-in-government-plans-for-pubco-reform-guest-beer-rights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/22/cable-flayed-over-delay-in-government-plans-for-pubco-reform-guest-beer-rights Hawkshead Brewery in Cumbria, founded by Alex Brodie (pictured) has launched a new range of bottled beers, including an American-style IPA, a dry stout and a powerful export ale that has been aged in American Bourbon casks named Jack and Jim -- guess the distilleries! Sun, 19 Jan 2014 19:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/19/hawkshead-beers-head-for-the-wood https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/19/hawkshead-beers-head-for-the-wood The Het Anker brewery dates from the 16th century when sisters in a beguinage brewed beer for the sick. In the 20th century, the owners abandoned Pils and returned to ale brewing and have achieved international success with the Gouden Carolus range. They have even added a version of the beer matured in single malt whisky casks from Scotland. Sat, 18 Jan 2014 09:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/01/18/mechelen-beer-is-the-anker-of-the-soul https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/01/18/mechelen-beer-is-the-anker-of-the-soul Harbour Brewing in Bodmin, Cornwall, has won a major listing for its IPA with Sainsbury's supermarkets on the back of the brewery's success in the Great British Beer Hunt Mon, 13 Jan 2014 14:18:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/13/top-supermarket-lists-cornish-ipa https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/13/top-supermarket-lists-cornish-ipa Peter Austin is hailed as the Father of Micro-brewing. Starting with Ringwood in Hampshire in the late 1970s, he built specialist craft breweries throughout the world. His greatest impact was in the United States and Britain where his legacy can be counted on the large number of small breweries operating today Thu, 09 Jan 2014 19:14:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/01/09/peter-austin-father-of-micro-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2014/01/09/peter-austin-father-of-micro-brewing Budweiser Budvar has chalked up record export sales at a time when other Czech breweries are seeing a decline in sales. The state-owned brewery also won several significant court battles with its global rival AB InBev in the long-running trademark dispute Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:07:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/09/czech-classic-sees-boom-in-export-sales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/09/czech-classic-sees-boom-in-export-sales CAMRA has launched a campaign, complete with posters, to promote pubs in January -- a notoriously "dead month" for the trade. Poor customer visits could spell the end for more pubs, CAMRA,says, unless beer lovers rally to their support. And the consumer group is also calling for a freeze on beer duty in the 2014 budget Mon, 06 Jan 2014 09:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/06/camra-call-to-boost-pubs-in-january https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2014/01/06/camra-call-to-boost-pubs-in-january Harviestoun Brewery in Scotland has made a major contribution to the appreciation of wood-aged beer with Ola Dubh, matured in casks from the acclaimed Highland Park malt whisky distillery on Orkney. Harviestoun brewer Stuart Cail is pictured Sat, 04 Jan 2014 14:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2014/01/04/whisky-and-beer-highlands-harmony https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2014/01/04/whisky-and-beer-highlands-harmony Famous pub chain owner David Bruce -- of Firkin and Slug & Lettuce fame -- is back in business with a stake in the award-winning West Berkshire Brewery. The brewery is based close to the River Thames in Wind in the Willows territory and Bruce is seen on the left with founder David Maggs in suitable Toad and Ratty outfits Tue, 31 Dec 2013 09:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/31/bruce-bounces-back-at-west-berks https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/31/bruce-bounces-back-at-west-berks Bosteels Brewery, dating from 1791, is older than its host country. It's still family owned and run by the sixth and seventh generations, Ivo and Antoine. They are renowned for their multi-award-winning Tripel Karmeliet, the idiosyncratic Pauwel Kwak served from a glass in a wooden shoe, and Deus, which reaches maturity in Champagne cellars in France Mon, 30 Dec 2013 12:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/30/a-brewery-that-s-older-than-belgium https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/30/a-brewery-that-s-older-than-belgium Box Steam in Wiltshire is a modern and efficient brewery but its roots are in the railway age of Brunel and the Box Tunnel that linked London to Bristol. Its beers and its pubs pay homage to Brunel and the great engineer's highs and lows Fri, 27 Dec 2013 09:24:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/12/27/not-boxed-in-wilts-brewery-steams-ahead-but-pays-homage-to-rail-giant-brunel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/12/27/not-boxed-in-wilts-brewery-steams-ahead-but-pays-homage-to-rail-giant-brunel Tesco reports it has sold more than 1.5 million bottles of ales this week -- three times more than in the same pre-Christmas week in 2011. It says demand continues to grow as younger people switch to ale. But this great British success story is largely ignored by the media. The BBC programme 12 Drinks of Christmas, presented by Alexander Armstrong and Giles Coren (pictured) completely ignored Britain's national drink Sat, 21 Dec 2013 15:16:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2013/12/21/beers-sales-are-booming--so-why-the-media-blackout-for-great-british-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2013/12/21/beers-sales-are-booming--so-why-the-media-blackout-for-great-british-ale Trappist monks at Westmalle Abbey near Antwerp in Flanders created a new Belgian style with their strong Tripel pale beer. But they also brew a flavoursome dark beer, Dubbel, in a brewhouse of startling Art Deco design surrounded by Gothic church buildings Thu, 19 Dec 2013 09:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/19/how-the-monks-of-westmalle-bring-double-and-triple-pleasure-with-their-strong-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/19/how-the-monks-of-westmalle-bring-double-and-triple-pleasure-with-their-strong-ales Sean Franklin coined the phrase "hops are the grapes of brewing" and set out to create beers with powerful citrus character. Now his pioneering work in Yorkshire is being continued by the Fozard brothers with a helping hand from father Ian Tue, 17 Dec 2013 10:58:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/17/rooster-s-new-owners-build-on-sean-franklin-s-bold-yorkshire-hop-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/17/rooster-s-new-owners-build-on-sean-franklin-s-bold-yorkshire-hop-heritage Giant pub company Punch Taverns has pocketed £3.7 million from the sale of two North London pubs. Both the Star near Lord's and the Old White Bear in Hampstead will become private houses, robbing locals of hubs of their communities. Wed, 11 Dec 2013 11:31:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/11/punch-body-blow-for-two-london-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/11/punch-body-blow-for-two-london-pubs Inside the massive Greene King brewery in Bury St Edmunds a new small plant has been installed to produce small-run beers aimed at the fast-growing craft sector. The new range includes pale ale, IPA and porter and the legendary Strong Suffolk Ale Sat, 07 Dec 2013 19:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/07/greene-king-bid-to-prove-small-is-beautiful https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/12/07/greene-king-bid-to-prove-small-is-beautiful Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall of River Cottage fame has teamed up with Skinner's Brewery in Cornwall to launch EPA -- English Pale Ale -- that will be served with food at the group's restaurants and canteens. The beer is made with all English ingredients, including a UK version of the famous American hop, Cascade. Hugh is seen on the left with Steve Skinner, founder of the brewery Fri, 06 Dec 2013 19:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/06/river-cottage-launches-pale-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/06/river-cottage-launches-pale-ale The York Station Tap has won the coveted Conversion to Pub prize in CAMRA's annual pub awards. Other winners include Best Street Corner Local, a village pub saved from closure and a new concept in a marina pub and restaurant Fri, 06 Dec 2013 11:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/06/york-station-tap-feted-in-pub-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/06/york-station-tap-feted-in-pub-awards Will Hawkes, who writes for the Independent, was named the Michael Jackson Beer Writer of the Year by the British Guild of Beer Writers on 5 December. Roger Protz won a gold award for his writing on beer and pubs in the Publican's Morning Advertiser. Other winners included Birmingham-based writer Marverine Cole (left in picture) Fri, 06 Dec 2013 11:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/06/hawkes-hailed-as-top-beer-writer-protz-wins-gold-for-work-on-beer-and-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/12/06/hawkes-hailed-as-top-beer-writer-protz-wins-gold-for-work-on-beer-and-pubs After intense lobbying, Marston's has restored Brakspear Triple to bottle-conditioned format. As with the great Trappist ales of Belgium (Chimay beers pictured) ageing in bottle gives beer greater depth of flavour Sat, 30 Nov 2013 12:40:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/30/a-spoonful-of-yeast-makes-beer-age-well https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/30/a-spoonful-of-yeast-makes-beer-age-well Petra Wetzel has taken Glasgow by storm. In the course of a few years she has built the success and reputation of WEST, a Bavarian-style beer hall with a brewery producing lagers and wheat beers to the ancient Pure Beer Law. Now she has funding to build a new brewery on the outskirts of the city Fri, 29 Nov 2013 20:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/29/how-petra-wetzel-went-west-to-give-glaswegians-a-taste-of-real-german-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/29/how-petra-wetzel-went-west-to-give-glaswegians-a-taste-of-real-german-beer The new Truman's Brewery that has brought back one of the most revered names in London brewing has launched Keeper, a double export stout based on a 1880 recipe Wed, 27 Nov 2013 14:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/27/truman-s-brings-back-19th-century-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/27/truman-s-brings-back-19th-century-stout Brewers are gearing up for the Christmas period with some rich and warming ales. They include a stout brewed from a secret 19th century recipe at Shepherd Neame and a recreation by Westerham Brewery of two beers from the Black Eagle Brewery in Kent. Black Eagle supplied troops in World War Two with beer pumped into fuel tanks of Spitfires. Image courtesy of Eric B Morgan and Edward Shacklady Wed, 27 Nov 2013 13:27:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/27/seasonal-joy-from-brewers-includes-some-historic-recipes-from-19th-20th-centuries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/27/seasonal-joy-from-brewers-includes-some-historic-recipes-from-19th-20th-centuries The Mayflower on the south bank of the Thames marks the spot where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America in 1620. Lovingly restored, you can marvel at the beams, settles and latticed windows...and enjoy good ale and food Tue, 26 Nov 2013 12:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/26/mayflower-one-of-london-s-pub-gems https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/26/mayflower-one-of-london-s-pub-gems Beer sommelier Jane Peyton takes readers on a dizzying ride through the history of beer, how it's made and the vast number of styles available. And then, undaunted by the trip, she describes every other known form of alcohol, from absinthe to whisky Fri, 22 Nov 2013 18:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/11/22/sommelier-jane-on-beer-whisky-vodka-every-beverage-known-to-drinking-kind-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/11/22/sommelier-jane-on-beer-whisky-vodka-every-beverage-known-to-drinking-kind-1 A damning report by Greg Mulholland's Parliamentary Save the Pub Group demolishes claims by the giant pub companies and the BBPA that more free trade pubs are closing than those owned by the pubcos Thu, 21 Nov 2013 10:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/21/pub-closures-the-big-lie https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/21/pub-closures-the-big-lie In a poll conducted by Cask Marque, Marston's Old Empire has been voted drinkers favourite cask beer. Perhaps the Burton brewery will now make the draught version more widely available as most of the production goes into bottle Mon, 18 Nov 2013 12:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/18/old-empire-strikes-back https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/18/old-empire-strikes-back Justin Hawke of Moor Beer argues that adding finings and other clearing agents strip beer of flavour and character. His beers are naturally hazy, find favour in pubs and win beer festivals prizes. Sat, 16 Nov 2013 11:37:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/11/16/seeking-clarity-on-cloudy-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/11/16/seeking-clarity-on-cloudy-beer Beer writers and campaigners Christine Cryne, Jeff Evans and Roger Protz will star at the BBC's food and drink bonanza at Birmingham's NEC from 27 November to 1 December. Jeff and Roger will present bottled and draught beers from their books while Christine will match beers with desserts suitable for Christmas Thu, 14 Nov 2013 13:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/14/beer-stars-head-for-bbc-s-food-bonanza https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/14/beer-stars-head-for-bbc-s-food-bonanza In the first of a new series, the remarkable success story of Innis & Gunn with its beer aged in bourbon barrels that's now a world-wide phenomenon. Dougal Sharp (pictured) has added several new styles, including beer aged in rum and Irish whiskey casks, and is now adding draught beers to his portfolio Wed, 13 Nov 2013 10:14:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2013/11/13/dougal-sharp-the-man-who-kick-started-oak-aged-beer-revolution-celebrates-10-years-of-success https://protzonbeer.co.uk/wood-aged-beer/2013/11/13/dougal-sharp-the-man-who-kick-started-oak-aged-beer-revolution-celebrates-10-years-of-success Andy Kennedy and Rob Orton of St Austell brewery have grown luxurious upper-lip adornments to promote Movember, the charity event that raises awareness of male cancer. And they have brewed a special beer for the occasion that will be unveiled at the Celtic Beer Festival at the brewery Sat, 09 Nov 2013 09:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/09/cornwall-bristling-with-anticipation-for-st-austell-s-movember-celtic-beer-festival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/11/09/cornwall-bristling-with-anticipation-for-st-austell-s-movember-celtic-beer-festival The Val-Dieu and Bellevaux breweries in the eastern region of Belgium, near Liege, maintain the ancient traditions of brewing in abbeys -- Val-Dieu beers are pictured with the local Herve cheese -- and on farms. Val-Dieu has lost its monks and brewing is now conducted by a woman "brewster". Near Malmedy, Carla and Wil Schuwer from the Netherlands have opened a rustic brewery in the rolling Ardennes Fri, 08 Nov 2013 11:33:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/08/abbey-and-farm-brewers-keep-the-faith-in-belgium-s-eastern-region-around-liege https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/11/08/abbey-and-farm-brewers-keep-the-faith-in-belgium-s-eastern-region-around-liege A new beer from Czech brewer Budweiser Budvar -- Pardal -- has arrived in British pubs and supermarkets. The name means "panther" and the beer has been developed by consumers who joined tasting panels at the brewery. The drinkers said they wanted a beer of modest strength but with good hop character. Mon, 28 Oct 2013 10:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/28/czech-panther-leaps-in-to-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/28/czech-panther-leaps-in-to-britain The future of the Trappist brewery at the Achel monastery in Belgium (pictured) is in doubt as only six elderly monks are left to run church and brewery. But in Massachusetts, monks at the abbey of St Joseph have launched their own beer and will win the coveted authentic Trappist symbol Wed, 23 Oct 2013 19:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/23/falling-number-of-monks-threat-to-belgian-trappist-brewery--but-in-u-s-brothers-launch-a-heavenly-beer-in-massachusetts https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/23/falling-number-of-monks-threat-to-belgian-trappist-brewery--but-in-u-s-brothers-launch-a-heavenly-beer-in-massachusetts William Nicholson, a 19th-century gin distiller in London, was also a keen cricketer who helped fund Lord's ground. His company bought Victorian "gin palaces" that form the bedrock of modern Nicholson's pubs, which stages a major beer festival until the middle of November. Some of the pubs, such as the Coal Hole in London's Strand, have more humble origins Mon, 21 Oct 2013 10:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/10/21/how-cricket-and-victorian-gin-palaces-combine-to-drive-nicholson-s-beer-festivals https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/10/21/how-cricket-and-victorian-gin-palaces-combine-to-drive-nicholson-s-beer-festivals Thornbridge, Thwaites and Box Steam breweries have launched a range of beers for the autumn season. They include an imperial stout that's the result of a collaborative brew between Jessica Heidrich of St Eriks Bryggeri in Sweden and Rob Lovatt, head brewer at Thornbridge (pictured). Thwaites' beers include two that are heavily hopped with American varieties while Box Steam has launched a strong Porter to mark the final steam loco commissioned by British Rail Sat, 19 Oct 2013 12:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/19/as-the-leaves-fall-breweries-launch-a-warming-range-of-autumn-xmas-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/19/as-the-leaves-fall-breweries-launch-a-warming-range-of-autumn-xmas-ales Moorhouse's of Burnley is building on the reputation of beers that draw on the history of the witches who once roamed the Pendle Hills. A special beer for Halloween will have drinkers reaching for their broomsticks to fly to the pub Thu, 17 Oct 2013 10:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/17/witches-to-cast-a-halloween-ale-spell https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/17/witches-to-cast-a-halloween-ale-spell Neil Hanson ran the Tann Hill Inn in the late 1970s, a remote pub in Swaledale that's regularly cut off by snow in winter. In his book The Inn at the Top, he looks back at the trials and trepidations of attempting to please both farmers and visitors..and fighting the rats... Wed, 16 Oct 2013 13:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/10/16/tall-tales-from-england-s-highest-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/10/16/tall-tales-from-england-s-highest-pub You could be forgiven for thinking the Nene Valley Railway is in central or eastern Europe as the steam line has been used for filming James Bond and the Orient Express as well as the iconic Queen video for Breakthru. But the line is in Cambridgeshire and gives steam buffs the chance to also sample some good beer in Peterborough. Pictured: steam loco that will operate the Winter Torpedo specials in November Tue, 15 Oct 2013 14:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/10/15/breakthrough-on-the-nene-valley-line-and-find-some-perfect-pints-in-peterborough https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/10/15/breakthrough-on-the-nene-valley-line-and-find-some-perfect-pints-in-peterborough It's a life of trains, planes and cars for Stuart Howe, former head brewer at Sharp's in Cornwall. He's now in charge of Molson Coors' craft brewing operations and will oversee production at Worthington's Brewery in Burton-on-Trent and a new site being built in Cork, Ireland, for the expanded Franciscan Well brewery. Pictured left is Stefano Cossi, brewer at the William Worthington's Brewery, with the famous White Shield car Sun, 13 Oct 2013 18:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/13/sharp-s-man-takes-control-at-molson-coors https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/13/sharp-s-man-takes-control-at-molson-coors The Czech brewer Budweiser Budvar has won a significant trademark battle with arch rival AB InBev -- owners of American Budweiser, with the Italian Supreme Court ruling that the American beer cannot be under the full name Jiri Bocek, Budvar's manager (pictured), has declared the ruling "a great victory" while its legal expert says it could have wider implications for consumers Wed, 09 Oct 2013 14:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/09/budvar-hails-historic-trademark-victory-as-italian-court-slams-global-giant-ab-inbev https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/09/budvar-hails-historic-trademark-victory-as-italian-court-slams-global-giant-ab-inbev Authors Stephen Beaumont (pictured) and Tim Webb have scoured the world to find the best brews for their Pocket Book. It's a must-read for seasoned drinkers and newcomers as it finds the top beers in both long-established brewing countries and the emerging nations Sun, 06 Oct 2013 10:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/10/06/magic-carpet-ride-round-the-world-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/10/06/magic-carpet-ride-round-the-world-of-beer Fuller's Vintage Ale 2013 is now on sale. Head Brewer John Keeling has used winter barley and new English hops and recommends that drinkers should lay a few bottles to age and mature. Wed, 02 Oct 2013 14:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/02/the-waiting-is-over-chiswick-vintage-ale-hits-the-shelves-for-some-autumnal-delight https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/10/02/the-waiting-is-over-chiswick-vintage-ale-hits-the-shelves-for-some-autumnal-delight A damning report by Fair Deal for Your Local shows that the giant national pubcos are closing locals at a frightening pace in order to pay off their horrendous debts. As Business Secretary Vince Cable ponders the role of the pubcos, Fair Deal says the case for a statutory code of practice must be top of his agenda Sat, 28 Sep 2013 11:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2013/09/28/pubcos-drinking-in-last-chance-saloon https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2013/09/28/pubcos-drinking-in-last-chance-saloon The latest edition of the annual Cask Report, written by Pete Brown, says sales of real ale continue to grow and now appeal to a far wider section of drinkers. But there's some criticism of pubs that change their range of beers too fast -- drinkers want continuity Fri, 27 Sep 2013 14:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/09/27/cask-reaches-out-to-young-audience-no-longer-a-flat-cap-drink-says-new-report https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/09/27/cask-reaches-out-to-young-audience-no-longer-a-flat-cap-drink-says-new-report The Settle to Carlisle railway was threatened with closure in the 1960s but it's survived and -- steam or diesel -- you can traverse the Yorkshire Dales and the Pennines and cross some spectacular viaducts, such as a steam train crossing the Ribblehead Viaduct (left). Along the route, you can enjoy some good beer and also visit a remote Cumbrian brewery Thu, 26 Sep 2013 11:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/09/26/up-hill-down-ale-on-a-railway-masterpiece-that-crosses-the-pennines-to-scots-border https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/09/26/up-hill-down-ale-on-a-railway-masterpiece-that-crosses-the-pennines-to-scots-border Teo Musso (third from left with his brewery team), started with a beer tent in Piedmont and now has bistros in key Italian cities. He is offering drinkers a range of beers that are in sharp contrast to mainstream "industrial lagers". A new Baladin bistro has opened in Milan and is attracting a large audience Tue, 24 Sep 2013 07:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/09/24/teo-musso-the-rebel-with-a-cause-who-has-changed-the-face-of-brewing-in-italy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/09/24/teo-musso-the-rebel-with-a-cause-who-has-changed-the-face-of-brewing-in-italy Greene King boss Rooney Anand has transformed the fortunes of the Suffolk-based brewing and pubs groups. Now he's installing a new brewhouse where a wide range of short-run beers will add to the appeal of his pubs Mon, 23 Sep 2013 04:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/09/23/new-brewery-new-beers-as-greene-king-looks-to-the-future-with-big-choice-of-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/09/23/new-brewery-new-beers-as-greene-king-looks-to-the-future-with-big-choice-of-pubs On the Hereford-Worcester border, hop farmer Ali Capper, with her husband Richard, is attempting to raise the profile of British hops. They argue that the 23 varieties of hops grown in Britain offer brewers all the aromas and flavours they need to make distinctive beer Wed, 18 Sep 2013 07:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/09/18/picking-a-fight-ali-capper-leads-the-battle-to-boost-the-fortunes-of-home-grown-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/09/18/picking-a-fight-ali-capper-leads-the-battle-to-boost-the-fortunes-of-home-grown-hops A beer based on a genuine Victorian recipe can't stop winning awards. Elland 1872 Porter was named Champion Winter Beer of Britain in January and crowned that achievement by walking off with the title of Champion Beer of Britain in August. The brewery's Dickie Bird (left) and brewer Michael Wynnyczuk (right) are seen with Dave Saunders, who discovered the recipe, at London Olympia. Photo: Harmit Kambo Sun, 08 Sep 2013 06:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/09/08/from-elland-and-back-classic-porter-picks-up-two-top-awards-in-beer-competitions https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/09/08/from-elland-and-back-classic-porter-picks-up-two-top-awards-in-beer-competitions The Good Pub Guide says between 2,500 and 4,000 pubs should close. This would rip the heart out of many local communities. People need pubs -- and not just the upmarket, food-led pubs featured in the guide. Pubs can be saved -- as in the case of the Bull in Great Milton, Oxfordshire,rescued by locals, including celebrity chef Raymond Blanc, seen in the foreground Sun, 01 Sep 2013 16:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2013/09/01/time-to-stand-up-for-the-great-british-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/comments/2013/09/01/time-to-stand-up-for-the-great-british-pub Beer writer Adrian Tierney-Jones whets his whistle as he reads the new 300 Beers to Try Before You Die! and says it reflects the amazing and often startling changes in the beer world-wide as craft brewers fashion new interpretations of IPA and develop new styles while even long-forgotten beers such as Burton Ale make a comeback Sat, 31 Aug 2013 06:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/08/31/spotlight-on-the-wonderful-world-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/08/31/spotlight-on-the-wonderful-world-of-beer Brewers in Cornwall have formed an an alliance to boost their sales beyond the West Country. One members of the new alliance, Penzance Brewing, has won two awards -- one for its pub, the Star Inn at Crowlas, the second for its golden ale, Trink. Peter Elvin, brewer and pub owners, is seen with Emma Blewett, a member of the bar team at the Star. And Bristolians will be oompahing for joy when a Bavarian Beer House opens in the city Mon, 26 Aug 2013 13:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/26/news-from-the-west-cornish-brewers-awards-for-star-inn-bristol-goes-bavarian https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/26/news-from-the-west-cornish-brewers-awards-for-star-inn-bristol-goes-bavarian A special Baltic Porter has been brewed by Carlsberg in Copenhagen to mark the 100th anniversary of the donation of the Little Mermaid statue to the city by the brewery's founder Carl Jacobsen. The beer will remain in drinkable condition for a further 100 years. The archive photo shows Jacobson in white suit handing over the statue to its sculptor Edvard Eriksen Mon, 26 Aug 2013 06:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/26/baltic-porter-celebrates-the-little-mermaid-and-will-remain-drinkable-for-100-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/26/baltic-porter-celebrates-the-little-mermaid-and-will-remain-drinkable-for-100-years The Bluebell steam line in Sussex, preserved before the Beeching axe fell in the 1960s, has been linked at the cost of £11 million to East Grinstead and the main line to London. For steam and beer lovers, the line offers locos in their original liveries and some fine pubs with good beer and even food from a Michelin-star chef Sat, 24 Aug 2013 13:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/08/24/irony-on-the-iron-track-beeching-way-heralds-start-of-revamped-bluebell-line https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/08/24/irony-on-the-iron-track-beeching-way-heralds-start-of-revamped-bluebell-line Marston's brewer Simon Yates hails the complex lemon and lime aromas and flavours of the Wakatu hop from New Zealand that he's using in the latest of his Single Hop beers, available in September and October Sat, 24 Aug 2013 04:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/08/24/kiwi-s-new-hop-takes-a-whack-or-two https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/08/24/kiwi-s-new-hop-takes-a-whack-or-two There are now more than 500 small craft breweries in Italy and several were on display at the Great British Beer Festival in London. They were promoted by leading beer writers Luca Giaccone (left) and Lorenzo Dabove, better known as Kuaska, and a long-standing champion of Italian craft beer Thu, 22 Aug 2013 06:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/22/time-to-take-the-grand-tour-of-italy-as-craft-beer-booms-from-como-to-naples https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/22/time-to-take-the-grand-tour-of-italy-as-craft-beer-booms-from-como-to-naples Sophie Atherton is the first ever woman beer sommelier and in July she was given the prestigious award of Beer Sommelier of the Year by the Parliamentary Beer Club. Now she plans to raise the appreciation of beer and stop it being seen as wine's poor relation. She's pictured at the Great British Beer Festival Tue, 20 Aug 2013 11:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/20/early-love-of-pubs-and-ale-set-sophie-on-course-to-become-a-top-beer-writer-and-taster https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/20/early-love-of-pubs-and-ale-set-sophie-on-course-to-become-a-top-beer-writer-and-taster Buntingford Brewery in Hertfordshire picked up two prestigious awards at the Great British Beer Festival, including a Gold award for its Twitchell Bitter. Brewster Catherine Murphy (pictured) is likely to be brewing bigger volumes on a farm where conservation is a major consideration Fri, 16 Aug 2013 10:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/16/small-brewery-wins-two-major-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/16/small-brewery-wins-two-major-awards Elland 1872 Porter from West Yorkshire, based on an authentic 19th-century recipe, has won the prestigious title of Champion Beer of Britain on the opening day of the Great British Beer Festival at London Olympia. Pictured are brewer Michael Wynnyczuk (left) and owner Dickie Bird Tue, 13 Aug 2013 11:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/13/yorkshire-porter-storms-to-gbbf-victory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/13/yorkshire-porter-storms-to-gbbf-victory Hogs Back Brewery is recording a big increase in sales and is busily expanding the site to cope with demand. As well as its core range of ales, the brewery has added a cloudy cider and a properly matured lager Sun, 11 Aug 2013 13:04:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/11/they-re-brewing-high-on-the-hog-in-surrey https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/11/they-re-brewing-high-on-the-hog-in-surrey Norwich, with its many fine pubs, is the ideal starting point for a trip to the coast on both the Bittern Line and the restored North Norfolk steam line. Along the way, discover some excellent ale houses in Cromer, Sheringham and the handsome Georgian market town of Holt. Pictured here is the beer cellar in the third Fat Cat pub in Norwich, the Fat Cat & Canary Sat, 10 Aug 2013 10:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/08/10/from-the-city-of-ale-to-the-north-norfolk-coast-and-the-steam-poppy-line https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/08/10/from-the-city-of-ale-to-the-north-norfolk-coast-and-the-steam-poppy-line Fuller's of Chiswick, West London, will have a special treat for visitors to the Great British Beer Festival next week -- the 2013 Vintage Ale in cask-conditioned form. The beer is usually only sold in bottle-conditioned form and drinkers at the festival at London Olympia will be able to check the unique aromas and flavours from the cask Fri, 09 Aug 2013 08:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/09/prize-vintage-ale-from-the-cask-at-beer-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/09/prize-vintage-ale-from-the-cask-at-beer-fest Leading Cornish family brewer St Austell has brought some Belgian influence to bear on a new beer brewed in the Lambic fashion with wild yeasts and the addition of local cherries. Photo shows St Austell beer sommelier Marc Bishop selecting cherries with Jessica Jeans at Bohetherick Farm Mon, 05 Aug 2013 08:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/05/up-the-kriek-in-cornwall-with-cherry-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/05/up-the-kriek-in-cornwall-with-cherry-beer Visitors to the Great British Beer Festival at London Olympia next week can grab the chance to hear talks and tastings from top beer writers on such topics as the Champion Beer of Britain, world beers, beers with nuts (yes, really!) and bottled beers Mon, 05 Aug 2013 07:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/05/top-talks-tastings-at-great-british-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/08/05/top-talks-tastings-at-great-british-fest In the first of a summerseries that celebrates steam trains and real ale, we travel along the restored steam train line into Swanage -- that will soon link up with main line services to London -- and pick out some of the excellent pubs in the area, along with a new brewery based in the romantic village of Corfe Castle Sat, 03 Aug 2013 06:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/08/03/dorset-delight-as-steam-train-links-pubs-with-fine-beer-and-new-craft-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/rail-ale/2013/08/03/dorset-delight-as-steam-train-links-pubs-with-fine-beer-and-new-craft-brewery The Boot Inn in St Albans market place dates from the early 15th century and soldiers fighting in the Wars of the Roses drank there. Now the pub has been given special recognition from the Battlefields Trust. Photo -- courtesy of Herts Advertiser -- shows Harvey Watson (left) from the trust presenting landlord Will Hughes with his presentation panel Thu, 01 Aug 2013 05:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/01/battlefield-award-for-historic-st-albans-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/08/01/battlefield-award-for-historic-st-albans-pub Bateman's Brewery in Lincolnshire has launched a new 617 ale to commemorate the famous Dambusters raid on Germany in WWII. Funds from the sale of the beer will go to help disabled people through the Leonard Cheshire Disability charity Wed, 31 Jul 2013 16:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/31/bouncing-beer-celebrates-the-dambusters https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/31/bouncing-beer-celebrates-the-dambusters Two major regional brewers will be launching beers at the Great British Beer Festival at London Olympia in August. Wells & Young's Bombardier Bus (pictured) will be in attendance and the historic Courage Russian Imperial Stout will be available in cask form. And Brains of Cardiff will weigh in with a beer made with the addition of bacon! Tue, 30 Jul 2013 10:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/30/bombardier-and-brains-head-for-olympia https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/30/bombardier-and-brains-head-for-olympia Professor Freddy Delvaux, revered as an expert in brewing, has restored the old De Kroon brewery and, with his sons, turned it into a vibrant museum and visitor centre. And alongside they run a major laboratory that stores and analyses yeast cultures, working with many leading Belgian breweries. Image shows Peter (left), Freddy and Filp Delvaux Sun, 28 Jul 2013 14:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/28/flanders-beer-trail-4-professor-and-his-sons-restore-a-belgian-crowning-glory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/28/flanders-beer-trail-4-professor-and-his-sons-restore-a-belgian-crowning-glory A Hertfordshire brewery -- best known for its Side Pocket for a Toad cask beer -- has called on a top designer to refashion its pump clips and labels, with warm colours aiming to attract new drinkers. And the brewery has added to its range with a new stout Sat, 27 Jul 2013 15:18:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/27/appliance-of-science-boosts-tring-s-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/27/appliance-of-science-boosts-tring-s-beers Once it was Champion Beer of Britain at 5.8%. That was reduced over the years to 5.6%. But now Ringwood Old Thumper -- owned by Marston's -- has been slimmed down to 5.1%. That's a big drop in duty for the brewer -- but will drinkers see the price of a pint go down? Tue, 23 Jul 2013 07:29:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/23/poor-old-thumper-loses-his-bite https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/23/poor-old-thumper-loses-his-bite A new hop called Endeavour -- named in honour of beer-loving Inspector Morse -- has been grown in a bid to offer British brewers the citrus fruit aroma and flavour they demand for modern pale ales. A beer called Endeavour has just been launched by Marston's: seen at the launch are (foreground) Peter Darby and Simon Yates, with Paul Corbett of hop merchants Farams and hop growers Ali and Richard Capper Mon, 22 Jul 2013 09:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/22/morse-rides-to-the-rescue-of-english-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/22/morse-rides-to-the-rescue-of-english-hops Carol and Ian Elliott bought and restored the Duke's Head in Bridgefoot, Cumbria, to give their village a focus. Renamed the Duke of Cumberland Inn, it will sell Jenning's cask beers Sat, 20 Jul 2013 09:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/20/duke-brings-life-back-to-cumbrian-village https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/20/duke-brings-life-back-to-cumbrian-village Top brewmaster Garrett Oliver, editor of the Oxford Companion to Beer, searches the world for good beer. Inspired by Carnegie Porter, his next venture is to build a brewery in Stockholm to provide Swedes with good beer to match their fine food Tue, 16 Jul 2013 15:30:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/16/globe-trotting-garrett-takes-brooklyn-to-stockholm-to-give-swedes-some-fine-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/16/globe-trotting-garrett-takes-brooklyn-to-stockholm-to-give-swedes-some-fine-beer The 36th Great British Beer Festival returns to London Olympia on 13-17 August, with 400 British cask beers and a great choice from many other countries. The opening day will see the unveiling of this year's Champion Beer of Britain while leading beer writers will stage a series of talks and tastings Mon, 15 Jul 2013 09:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/15/beer-fest-will-scale-olympian-heights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/15/beer-fest-will-scale-olympian-heights Hoegaarden in Belgium was a town made famous by Pierre Celis and his spiced wheat beer. His brewery is now part of global giant AB InBev but Mieke De Backer and Jan De Wachter (pictured) maintain Celis's tradition of artisan brewing with their small Nieuwhuys plant where they make blond and dark beer...and a drop of geneva Wed, 10 Jul 2013 14:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/10/flanders-beer-trail-3-husband-and-wife-team-bring-pride-back-to-hoegaarden https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/10/flanders-beer-trail-3-husband-and-wife-team-bring-pride-back-to-hoegaarden In Norwich, the National Collection of Yeast Cultures is helping to restore the famous London brewing name of Truman's by supplying the yeast cultures that once produced Mild, Porter and Pale Ale in Brick Lane, Whitechapel. Pictured are Benedikt Ott, Truman's brewer, with Vincent Johnson, who has installed the new brewing kit at Hackney Wick Mon, 08 Jul 2013 08:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/08/yeast-brings-truman-s-hopping-back-to-life https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/08/yeast-brings-truman-s-hopping-back-to-life Fat Sprat is the latest beer from Adnams in Suffolk, brewed by Fergus Fitzgerald who has been given free rein to develop new brands. Along with all the brewery's beers, sales of Fat Sprat will help the enviironment Sat, 06 Jul 2013 10:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/06/hoppy-summer-delight-from-adnams https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/06/hoppy-summer-delight-from-adnams Hogs Back, the Tongham, Surrey, brewery is recording a dramatic rise in sales for both its cask and bottled beers. And a new cloudy cider has found favour with drinkers of the traditional natural style. Chairman Rupert Thompson (right) praises the work of his brewing team Fri, 05 Jul 2013 15:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/05/have-a-hair-of-the-hog-as-surrey-brewery-sees-sales-bristle-by-a-rip-snorting-30 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/05/have-a-hair-of-the-hog-as-surrey-brewery-sees-sales-bristle-by-a-rip-snorting-30 One year after it was launched, monks at Ampleforth Abbey in North Yorkshire are celebrating the success of their Abbey strong ale, brewed in the Belgian Trappist tradition. Father Terence, prior of the abbey, is seen with a birthday cake made in the shape of the beer bottle Wed, 03 Jul 2013 17:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/03/it-s-abbey-birthday-to-yorkshire-monks-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/03/it-s-abbey-birthday-to-yorkshire-monks-ale Frank Boon -- pronounced 'bone' -- is one of the classic brewers of lambic and gueuze, the Belgian beers made by spontaneous fermentation with long ageing in wood. He cuts no corners and sticks firmly to tradition even though he has a new, modern brewhouse Tue, 02 Jul 2013 21:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/02/flanders-beer-trail-2-no-boon-of-contention-in-classic-lambic-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/07/02/flanders-beer-trail-2-no-boon-of-contention-in-classic-lambic-brewery Family-owned Swindon brewery Arkell's has launched a series of new cask beers with a different hop used every month. The first beer, Admiral, sold out in a few days. Image shows head brewer Alex Arkell, one of the youngest brewers in Britain, who is carrying on the family tradition Mon, 01 Jul 2013 11:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/01/family-brewer-goes-hopping-into-summer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/07/01/family-brewer-goes-hopping-into-summer Deep in the countryside of Flemish Brabant, near the university city of Leuven, the Janssens family are farmers who grow their own barley and hops to fashion their farmhouse beers and age stronger beer is oak casks from the whisky and wine industries Fri, 28 Jun 2013 17:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/06/28/flanders-beer-trail-1-chicory-and-whisky-add-flavour-to-farmhouse-beer-in-brabant https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/06/28/flanders-beer-trail-1-chicory-and-whisky-add-flavour-to-farmhouse-beer-in-brabant Cornish brewer Sharp's has announced that Doom Bar is now the No 1 cask beer in the UK. As the brewery at Rock -- now owned by global giant Molson Coors -- prepares to mark its 20th anniversary, Doom Bar is recording sales growth of 45% a year. Image shows staff at the brewery celebrating the news Fri, 21 Jun 2013 22:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/21/cornish-doom-bar-is-now-top-of-the-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/21/cornish-doom-bar-is-now-top-of-the-hops The Six Bells in St Michaels Village, St Albans, has won several awards from CAMRA for the quality of its cask ales. Jo and Patrick Remmington have history, from as far back as Roman times, all around them but they have to live in a real world of intense competition in the pub trade Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/06/17/ring-the-chimes-for-a-pub-with-history-and-prize-winning-beers-with-that-local-touch https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/06/17/ring-the-chimes-for-a-pub-with-history-and-prize-winning-beers-with-that-local-touch State by state, there's now a library of guide books to point beer tourists in the direction of the craft beers produced by more than 2,000 breweries in the United States. Julie Johnson of All About Beer magazine reviews the titles available and the punishing hard work that goes into researching and writing them. The article first appeared in All About Beer, July 2013 edition, and is reprinted by kind permission: www.allaboutbeer.com. The magazine will be available on news stands in July Sat, 15 Jun 2013 11:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/06/15/beers-across-america-guiding-lights-to-help-find-the-finest-pints-and-craft-breweries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/06/15/beers-across-america-guiding-lights-to-help-find-the-finest-pints-and-craft-breweries On the Suffolk coast, Aaron Hay reports, Adnams Brewery has installed one of the most enegry-efficient plants in Britain and now it's pumping renewable gas from waste into the National Grid. This article is reproduced with permission from the website of Forum For the Future. Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/13/beer-in-bid-to-help-save-the-planet https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/13/beer-in-bid-to-help-save-the-planet From the archive November 2011: beers brewed by Trappist monks at the Westvleteren abbey in Belgium are eagerly awaited and can be bought only when the message goes out over the bush telegraph that a new brew is available. Pictured: Brother Joris in the brewhouse Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:51:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/06/11/waiting-in-line-for-the-beers-from-the-quietest-of-all-belgian-trappist-monks https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/06/11/waiting-in-line-for-the-beers-from-the-quietest-of-all-belgian-trappist-monks Grain merchants, maltsters and a small craft brewery in Norfolk have combined forces to make a special bottled beer that will be circulated to barley farmers throughout Britain to encourage them to plant Maris Otter Sat, 08 Jun 2013 11:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/08/special-beer-boosts-britain-s-best-barley https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/08/special-beer-boosts-britain-s-best-barley St Austell Brewery has linked up with the Eden Project to launch a beer using the ancient plant alecost. Sommelier Nigel Sadler publishes a small book on how to match beer and food. Estrella Damm to spend £3.5m on UK promotion Sat, 08 Jun 2013 09:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/08/news-roundup-old-cornish-recipe-for-new-eden-ale-beer-sommelier-links-beer-and-food-spanish-beer-in-big-uk-sales-push https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/08/news-roundup-old-cornish-recipe-for-new-eden-ale-beer-sommelier-links-beer-and-food-spanish-beer-in-big-uk-sales-push Publicans from all over Britain rallied in Westminster on 5 June to urge the government to bring in legislation that will offer pubco licensees a fairer deal and stop the closure of pubs -- now running at 26 a week Thu, 06 Jun 2013 12:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/06/campaigners-converge-on-westminster-to-stop-the-loss-of-britain-s-community-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/06/campaigners-converge-on-westminster-to-stop-the-loss-of-britain-s-community-pubs Lacons Brewery in Great Yarmouth was once a powerhouse in East Anglia, supplying beer as far as London. In the 1960s it fell victim to Whitbread, which closed the site in 1968. But now Lacons and its falcon symbol are flying again on a new site that includes a brewery tap, visitor centre and a museum that traces the history of a company established in 1760. At the end of May a horse-drawn dray took the first batch of Lacons beer to the opening of the City of Ale festival in Norwich Wed, 05 Jun 2013 11:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/05/flying-falcon-heralds-return-of-lacons-brewery-axed-by-national-giant-in-1968 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/06/05/flying-falcon-heralds-return-of-lacons-brewery-axed-by-national-giant-in-1968 The eighth edition of the Good Bottled Beer Guide lists some 1,700 beers -- an enormous improvement on the number of beers available when Jeff Evans launched the first edition in 1998. The variety of beers in the new guide underlines the dramatic growth of quality beer in Britain Wed, 29 May 2013 18:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/05/29/jeff-evans-the-man-with-plenty-of-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/05/29/jeff-evans-the-man-with-plenty-of-bottle Meantime's brewmaster has to pinch himself to believe the awesome success of his South London brewery. His lagers and pale ales are in great demand in the capital and beer sales are growing so fast he may need new premises in three years' time Sat, 25 May 2013 18:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/05/25/alastair-hook-leads-the-great-beer-revival-in-london-and-is-fast-running-out-of-space https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/05/25/alastair-hook-leads-the-great-beer-revival-in-london-and-is-fast-running-out-of-space Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewer based in Kent, has recreated a pale ale from the early 19th century that proves the style was not confined to Burton-on-Trent Sat, 18 May 2013 21:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/18/sheps-takes-a-shine-to-brilliant-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/18/sheps-takes-a-shine-to-brilliant-ale West London brewer Fuller's has signed an exclusive deal with the top Belgian Trappist monastic brewer to launch Chimay Gold on draught in the UK. Tue, 14 May 2013 15:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/14/fuller-s-mines-for-belgian-monks-gold https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/14/fuller-s-mines-for-belgian-monks-gold Enter Shikari, the Alternative Rock band with musicians drawn from St Albans, are keen beer drinkers. They have teamed up with Signature Brew based in London to launch their own beer Sssnakepit. The beer will be available at the group's concerts. Oliver Wolffe reports Mon, 13 May 2013 11:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/13/top-rock-group-enter-their-own-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/13/top-rock-group-enter-their-own-beer Wye Valley launches bottle-conditioned beer using UK-grown Cascade hops; a new beer from the Belgian Chimay Trappist brewery, Gold, will be launched by Butcombe Brewery at Bristol's food and drink festival; Brain's Cardiff brewery launches collaborative IPA with beer reviewer Simon Martin; Newcastle United supporters' special brew to aid cancer charity; US home-brewing now legal in all 50 states Fri, 10 May 2013 19:44:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/10/news-roundup-wye-valley-butcombe-and-chimay-brain-s-ipa-newcastle-fans-beer-us-home-brewers-cheer-new-adnams-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/10/news-roundup-wye-valley-butcombe-and-chimay-brain-s-ipa-newcastle-fans-beer-us-home-brewers-cheer-new-adnams-ale When a pub in South London was threatened with closure to be turned into private housing, loyal customers banded together to raise the funds to buy it. Now the Ivy House, once a major 'pub rock' venue, will reopen later this year Wed, 08 May 2013 08:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/05/08/clinging-to-the-ivy-how-locals-united-to-save-pub-that-hosted-top-name-rock-stars https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/05/08/clinging-to-the-ivy-how-locals-united-to-save-pub-that-hosted-top-name-rock-stars Simon Moore, landlord of the Chequers in Witney, Oxfordshire -- the prime minister's constituency -- faces losing his job and his home as a result of the crippling rents imposed by his landlord, Enterprise Inns. According to Greg Mulholland MP and the GMB trade union, the case proves the need for reform of the giant pubcos Tue, 07 May 2013 17:36:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/07/tenant-facing-eviction-in-david-cameron-s-constituency-proves-need-for-pubco-reform https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/07/tenant-facing-eviction-in-david-cameron-s-constituency-proves-need-for-pubco-reform Unite, Britain's biggest trade union, has joined the campaign to stop pubs closing and communities withering Tue, 07 May 2013 12:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/07/major-union-backs-big-pubs-campaign https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/07/major-union-backs-big-pubs-campaign The Black Horse pub in Barnet, North London, has its own small brewery and its beers use the finest Maris Otter malting barley grown by farmer Teddy Maufe in Norfolk, who uses solar panels to ensure his grain gets maximum sunshine Sat, 04 May 2013 10:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/05/04/sun-kissed-malt-boosts-new-pub-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/05/04/sun-kissed-malt-boosts-new-pub-brewery The Jolly Angler in Reading was closed and boarded up by enterprise Inns. Now it's a flourishing pub free of the pubco tie. It was used as the launch pad for a major campaign that seeks a fair deal for tenants struggling with high prices and rents at the hands of the giant pubcos Fri, 03 May 2013 09:26:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/03/pub-that-came-back-from-the-dead-used-to-launch-campaign-against-giant-pubcos https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/03/pub-that-came-back-from-the-dead-used-to-launch-campaign-against-giant-pubcos Brakspear Special, one of the corner-stones of the historic Brakspear Brewery in Henley-on-Thames, is making a welcome return as the pub company that bears the former brewery's name opens a micro-brewing plant in the riverside town. Photo show Brakspear's chief executive Tom Davies (left) with brewer Malcolm Mayo Thu, 02 May 2013 08:48:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/02/why-henley-is-tasting-special-again https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/05/02/why-henley-is-tasting-special-again Starting this weekend, May will see a number of key beer talks and tastings, several featuring Roger Protz, including the Lord Clifden in Birmingham (pictured), Elgood's Brewery in Wisbech, and Meantime in Greenwich.. Meantime Brewery is joining forces with Young's pubs in London and Surrey for a series of beer-and-food events in May Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:46:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/30/big-beer-events-in-may https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/30/big-beer-events-in-may For the second year running, MP Greg Mulholland, who chairs the Parliamentary Save the Pubs Group, has been named Parliamentary Campaigner of the Year by the Campaign for Real Ale as a result of his role in combating pub closures. He is pictured, centre, with CAMRA chief executive Mike Benner (left) and national chairman Colin Valentine Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/29/mulholland-feted-as-campaigner-of-the-year https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/29/mulholland-feted-as-campaigner-of-the-year McEwan's beer, for long sidelined in Scotland, is making a comeback under new owners Wells & Young's. But the new 'smoothflow' McEwan's Red is a long way removed from the legendary 80 Shilling sold at the equally legendary Athletic Arms -- the Diggers -- in Edinburgh. There's 80 Bob on the bar but it's a house beer brewed by Stewart's of Loanhead Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/26/mcewan-s-sees-red-in-scotland https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/26/mcewan-s-sees-red-in-scotland Winners in the International Brewing Awards (pictured with chairman Bill Taylor in London's Guildhall) named nine beers and one cider as overall champions, drawn from all parts of the world Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/25/top-of-the-pile-judges-name-the-best-beers-of-the-world-at-major-ceremony-in-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/25/top-of-the-pile-judges-name-the-best-beers-of-the-world-at-major-ceremony-in-london A seminar in London attended by brewers from Britain and overseas has heard that the 20 hop varieties grown here offer as many aromas and flavours as New World versions. The seminar is part of a campaign to stop the decline of the British hop industry -- a campaign led by hop farmer Ali Capper (pictured) Tue, 23 Apr 2013 16:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/23/big-campaign-launched-to-boost-uk-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/23/big-campaign-launched-to-boost-uk-hops Shipyard Brewing, one of America's leading craft breweries, will launch its Pale Ale in Britain in May in collaboration with Marston's of Burton-on-Trent and Wolverhampton. Picture shows Marston's director of brewing Richard Westwood (right) showing Shipyard's Fred and Judy Forsley round the Wolverhampton plant Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/22/top-american-pale-ale-sets-sail-for-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/22/top-american-pale-ale-sets-sail-for-britain Britain's oldest brewery has launched its most exacting and exciting range of classic ales and seasonal beers for 2013, ranging from a pale IPA to dark Porter and Stout. The range has been developed by head brewer Richard Frost (pictured) and his team at the Faversham brewery that uses water from its own artesian well along with the finest Kentish hops Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/18/beers-for-all-seasons-shepherd-neame-launches-big-range-of-ales-for-the-year https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/18/beers-for-all-seasons-shepherd-neame-launches-big-range-of-ales-for-the-year As Marston's launches its Single Hop beers for 2013, Simon Yates discusses the essential ingredients of the amazing plant that adds aroma and bitterness to beer Sat, 13 Apr 2013 10:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/04/13/unravelling-the-mystery-of-the-hop-a-master-class-by-marston-s-top-brewer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/04/13/unravelling-the-mystery-of-the-hop-a-master-class-by-marston-s-top-brewer Figures reveal the top 50 leading craft brewers in the United States, including Sierra Nevada, which produces the leading brand Torpedo IPA (pictured), along with the leading national brewing companies Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/12/top-of-the-hops-in-u-s-craft-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/12/top-of-the-hops-in-u-s-craft-brewing Suffolk-based Greene King has won top awards in the Monde Selection annual competition for its IPA Gold and Reserve beers launched just a year ago. An international panel of judges gives golds for quality and taste in food and drink. Wed, 10 Apr 2013 18:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/10/greene-king-s-new-ipas-win-top-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/10/greene-king-s-new-ipas-win-top-awards Lacons, the famous Great Yarmouth brewery closed by Whitbread, will re-open in May and the new owners have redesigned the falcon logo that can still be seen on many pubs throughout East Anglia. The first beers from the new brewery will be available in Norwich at the opening of the City of Ale festivities. Now the brewery has unveiled its first three beers Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/10/lacons-falcon-ready-to-fly-over-norfolk https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/10/lacons-falcon-ready-to-fly-over-norfolk The Bradford Film Festival, featuring such celebrity guests as Sir Tom Courtenay, will this year have Black Sheep beer on offer from the Masham Brewery. Both the festival and the brewery have been running for the same number of years so the presence of the Masham ale will be a double celebration. Photo shows Jo Theakston, marketing director, outside the brewery Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/10/take-black-sheep-with-your-popcorn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/10/take-black-sheep-with-your-popcorn Dougal Sharp, founder of Innis & Gunn that has forged world-wide success with its beers aged in whisky barrels, has struck a new course with a Helles-style pale golden lager Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:53:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/09/oak-aged-pioneer-breaks-new-ground-with-lager-based-on-bavarian-style-of-helles https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/09/oak-aged-pioneer-breaks-new-ground-with-lager-based-on-bavarian-style-of-helles Graham Yates has brewed beer and pulled pints at the Brunswick Inn in Derby for more than a decade. But now he's retired, leaving the world's first railway workers' pub in good hands for the future Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:05:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/04/09/legendary-publican-calls-time-at-derby-s-famous-railway-tavern-and-microbrewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/04/09/legendary-publican-calls-time-at-derby-s-famous-railway-tavern-and-microbrewery Simon Jenkins reports on Dan Jones's new brewery Hamelsworde in the 'wild frontier' between West and South Yorkshire. Dan, a keen home brewer, has gone commercial with a range of beers that includes Wheat, Stout and IPA Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/04/08/god-s-own-county-goes-beer-crazy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/04/08/god-s-own-county-goes-beer-crazy David Ashton-Hyde, from Heston Blumenthal's Hinds Head, has walked away with the top prize in Innis & Gunn's first Bartender's Choice competition. His Smoked Beer infused with Bourbon Oak and Maple Syrup wowed the judges in Edinburgh Sat, 06 Apr 2013 09:10:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/06/smoked-beer-in-bourbon-wows-the-judges https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/06/smoked-beer-in-bourbon-wows-the-judges A celebration of American craft beer will be staged in New York City in June as the industry experiences amazing growth. There will be beer-and-food pairings and the chance to meet top chefs and master brewers, including Brooklyn Brewery's Garrett Oliver (left) Wed, 03 Apr 2013 21:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/03/u-s-craft-beer-heads-for-the-big-apple https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/03/u-s-craft-beer-heads-for-the-big-apple A unique collaboration between Dogfish Head craft brewery in the U.S. and Charles Wells of Britain has created an India Pale Ale based on an American beer recreated in the Bedford brewery Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/03/old-world-meets-new-world-with-ipa-that-s-brewed-on-both-sides-of-the-pond https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/03/old-world-meets-new-world-with-ipa-that-s-brewed-on-both-sides-of-the-pond CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, has launched a month-long celebration of the British pub to encourage more people to use them following the scrapping of the Beer Duty Escalator. Pictured: the Baum, Rochdale, CAMRA's national pub of the year Tue, 02 Apr 2013 11:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/02/big-drive-to-boost-britain-s-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/04/02/big-drive-to-boost-britain-s-pubs Lacons, a much-missed name in Norfolk brewing, will reopen in May and its beers will be launched at the Norwich City of Ale celebration. Image shows the Great Yarmouth brewery in the early 20th century Sat, 30 Mar 2013 10:37:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/30/lacon-s-falcon-to-fly-again-in-yarmouth https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/30/lacon-s-falcon-to-fly-again-in-yarmouth Following the 'phenomenal success' of its 2012 Single Hop programme, Marston's will offer six beers for 2013 using hops from England, New Zealand and the United Sates, all offering a wide range of aromas and flavour Thu, 28 Mar 2013 12:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/28/marston-s-unveils-single-hop-beer-range-for-2013-building-on-2012-s-big-success https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/28/marston-s-unveils-single-hop-beer-range-for-2013-building-on-2012-s-big-success The Ivy House in Nunhead, south London, which has featured such music stars as Elvis Costello and Joe Strummer, has been saved by local people after giant pub company Enterprise Inns sold it. An action group got backing from English Heritage, which listed the building, and financial support from the Architectural Heritage Fund Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:25:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/27/community-action-saves-london-music-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/27/community-action-saves-london-music-pub Working with beer sommelier Jane Peyton, Ilkley Brewery in Yorkshire has dug deep in to history to produce a beer infused with pine needles -- a style that recalls the ales made by Norse people centuries ago Wed, 27 Mar 2013 08:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/27/all-spruced-up-with-nordic-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/27/all-spruced-up-with-nordic-beer Will Hawkes takes us on a capital pub crawl that will please lovers of both cask and keg -- and may even unite them Mon, 25 Mar 2013 19:59:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/03/25/a-crafty-look-at-london-s-best-bars https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/03/25/a-crafty-look-at-london-s-best-bars In the wake of last week's budget decrease in beer duty and the scrapping of the duty escalator, the Wetherspoon pub chain will cut the price of its beer. But founder Tim Martin (pictured) is also calling for a reduction in VAT so pubs can compete more favourably with supermarkets Mon, 25 Mar 2013 13:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/25/wetherspoons-to-slash-beer-prices https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/25/wetherspoons-to-slash-beer-prices Historic day for beer drinkers as government scraps the beer duty escalator that has driven up the price of a pint and closed thousands of pubs. The campaign was driven by CAMRA, SIBA, pubgoers, publicans, brewers and MPs such as Greg Mulholland and Andrew Griffiths (pictured), chairs of the Parliamentary Beer and Save the Pub groups. Family brewer McMullen to cut price of a pint by 5p in 26 community pubs and Wetherspoon to slash prices Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:46:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/20/camra-siba-cheer-as-escalator-axed https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/20/camra-siba-cheer-as-escalator-axed Bath Ales' popular Rare Hare premium ale will be available on cask and in bottle for the Easter period as the brewery opens a new shop and visitor centre, with brewery tours available Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:55:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/hare-is-hopping-back-for-easter-as-brewery-goes-on-visitor-trail https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/hare-is-hopping-back-for-easter-as-brewery-goes-on-visitor-trail Small breweries in the United States are not only growing at a fast rate but the size of the biggest craft companies masks actual growth. Pictured: Sierra Nevada's massively successful Torpedo IPA Tue, 19 Mar 2013 09:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/american-craft-beer-goes-on-booming https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/american-craft-beer-goes-on-booming Peter Amor of Wye Valley and the late Dave Wickett of Kelham Island Brewery were given Lifetime Achievement Awards at the SIBA conference in Sheffield. Peter Amor (left) is pictured with SIBA chairman Keith Bott Tue, 19 Mar 2013 09:29:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/siba-honours-greats-of-british-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/siba-honours-greats-of-british-brewing Chiltern Brewery launches new eye-catching pump clips; American craft breweries continue to grow market share; Labour says it may keep Duty Escalator; Beer Sommelier enjoys Turkish Delight; industry 'Oscar' for Ossett Brewery Tue, 19 Mar 2013 08:07:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/news-roundup-chiltern-the-u-s-labour-and-duty-turkey-pub-ossett-s-top-award-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/19/news-roundup-chiltern-the-u-s-labour-and-duty-turkey-pub-ossett-s-top-award-1 Stan Hieronymus takes beer lovers on a fascinating trip through the hop fields of the world, checking out every known variety, each with a unique aroma and flavour. He tells how differences in climate and soil affect the character of hops and gives a brief history of how the plant came to be the chosen one for adding bitterness to beer. Sun, 17 Mar 2013 12:35:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/03/17/hip-on-hops-everything-you-ve-ever-wanted-to-know-about-beer-s-perfect-companion https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2013/03/17/hip-on-hops-everything-you-ve-ever-wanted-to-know-about-beer-s-perfect-companion Society of Independent Brewers unveils winners of national competition for cask, keg and bottled beers -- the first time all three categories have been judged under one roof. Supreme champions named as Convivial London Pubs, Cairngorm Brewery and Quantock Brewery Sat, 16 Mar 2013 18:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/16/siba-winners-announced-at-national-beerx https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/16/siba-winners-announced-at-national-beerx Pub owner Dawn Hopkins on the dire impact the Beer Duty Escalator is having on pubs, customers and the people who run them. As next week's budget looms, she says it's time for the government to help struggling pubs. Dawn is pictured speaking at the Save the Pubs rally in London earlier this year Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/03/14/time-to-rescue-the-poor-battered-pub https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/03/14/time-to-rescue-the-poor-battered-pub Roger Ryman, head brewer at St Austell Brewery, has launched a special stout for Ireland's national holiday, using a recipe from 1913 discovered in old leather-bound books at the Cornish company. The beer will help cement the strong Celtic links between Cornwall and Ireland Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/11/old-cornish-stout-to-celebrate-st-patrick-s https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/11/old-cornish-stout-to-celebrate-st-patrick-s The stunning medieval town of Bamberg in German Franconia is famous for its Rauch or smoked beer, with malt cured over beechwood to give a distinctive tang to the beer. Sat, 09 Mar 2013 13:52:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/03/09/smoking-out-the-great-beers-of-bamberg https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/03/09/smoking-out-the-great-beers-of-bamberg Martin Kellaway (pictured) of Wharfedale Brewery in Yorkshire is heading for Catalonia with a well-hopped pale ale. It will be on offer at a major beer festival, evidence of the growing interest in good beer in Spain Tue, 05 Mar 2013 08:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/05/off-to-barcelona-yorkshire-brewery-takes-hoppy-ale-to-blossoming-catalonian-market https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/05/off-to-barcelona-yorkshire-brewery-takes-hoppy-ale-to-blossoming-catalonian-market Marston's, the leading British brewing group behind Pedigree Bitter and Banks's, Jennings and Ringwood beers, says cask ale is the lifeline for the pub trade, with golden ales appealing to a younger generation of drinkers. Pictured: the world-famous Union fermenters at Marston's Burton brewery Mon, 04 Mar 2013 08:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/04/top-brewer-says-cask-ale-is-top-of-the-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/03/04/top-brewer-says-cask-ale-is-top-of-the-hops Brewer and pub owner Stuart Bateman on why he likes real pubs, real people and real games -- and tells the powers-that-be to look on the traditional pub as the solution, not the problem Sat, 02 Mar 2013 08:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/03/02/take-me-to-a-pub-with-a-dart-board-and-spare-me-virtual-reality-gizmos https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/03/02/take-me-to-a-pub-with-a-dart-board-and-spare-me-virtual-reality-gizmos Small independent craft brewers in Britain have seen sales increase by close to 7 per cent as total beer sales decline. It means more jobs in the craft sector, a lifeline for pubs and greater choice for drinkers Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/28/craft-beer-goes-on-booming-in-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/28/craft-beer-goes-on-booming-in-britain Hook Norton, the most traditional of English breweries, with wooden mash tuns and fermenters, and deliveries by horse-drawn drays, has launched a new beer aimed at modern younger drinkers Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:58:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/02/27/hooky-s-lion-roars-over-the-cotswolds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/02/27/hooky-s-lion-roars-over-the-cotswolds American consumers have launched law suits in several states against global brewing giant AB InBev over claims that American beers, including Budweiser, have been watered down. Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:29:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/27/drinkers-sue-bud-over-watered-down-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/27/drinkers-sue-bud-over-watered-down-beer Britain's biggest-selling 'red top' tabloid, the Sun, has joined the campaign to scrap the beer duty escalator. In an editorial, the paper calls on Chancellor George Osborne to axe the tax in his March budget. Wed, 27 Feb 2013 09:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/27/top-tabloid-says-axe-the-escalator https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/27/top-tabloid-says-axe-the-escalator The London Drinker Festival, organised by the North London branch of CAMRA, 6-8 March at King's Cross, will turn the spotlight on the remarkable renaissance of brewing in the capital, including Duncan Sambrook's Battersea brewery (left). And there's a trade session where publicans and beer writers can have a private view -- and a free beer -- of what's on offer Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/22/festival-to-showcase-london-beer-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/22/festival-to-showcase-london-beer-revival Organisers of the third City of Ale, a major celebration of Norwich pubs and breweries, have been given £5,000 to promote the event nationwide Wed, 20 Feb 2013 17:40:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/20/big-cash-boost-for-norwich-real-ale-festival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/20/big-cash-boost-for-norwich-real-ale-festival Thomas Hardy's Ale, a famous old ale brewed in England for many years, is being relaunched by two young enthusiasts in Italy Tue, 19 Feb 2013 08:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/19/ciao-tomaso-legendary-english-strong-beer-is-on-the-way-back-from-italy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/19/ciao-tomaso-legendary-english-strong-beer-is-on-the-way-back-from-italy Simon Jenkins on how a collaboration between Sierra Nevada of California and Thornbridge of Derbyshire has produced a hands-across-the-pond new beer Mon, 18 Feb 2013 16:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/02/18/american-and-english-craft-breweries-scale-new-peaks-of-beery-delight https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/02/18/american-and-english-craft-breweries-scale-new-peaks-of-beery-delight 1,000 beers from 45 countries were judged at the International Beer Awards in Burton-on-Trent. Classes included lager, keg and cask ale and ranged from pale gold to jet black. Elgood's Brewery in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire -- run by three sisters (left to right) Claire Simpson, Belinda Sutton and Jennifer Everall, all Elgoods -- won Gold for their Black Dog Mild Ale Mon, 18 Feb 2013 11:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/18/record-turnout-in-world-beer-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/18/record-turnout-in-world-beer-awards Heineken has increased the price of John Smith's Smooth by 5 pence a pint -- and the brewing giant has also cut the strength of the beer. Carlsberg, Beck's, American Budweiser, Cobra and Stella have also jumped on the 'more money for weaker beer' bandwagon Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:02:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/14/it-s-the-great-beer-rip-off-now-you-pay-more-for-a-weaker-pint-of-smooth https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/14/it-s-the-great-beer-rip-off-now-you-pay-more-for-a-weaker-pint-of-smooth CAMRA's names top pub, the Baum, next door to the first-ever Co-op shop in Britain. Giant brewer AB Inbev announces nationwide push for Goose Island beers; Sambrook's launches pale ale with aid of German lagering technique; Purity reports booming sales Wed, 13 Feb 2013 11:18:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/13/news-roundup-converted-shop-is-pub-of-the-year-ab-inbev-to-expand-goose-island-beers-sambrook-s-launches-pale-ale-with-a-german-twist-beer-booms-at-purity https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/13/news-roundup-converted-shop-is-pub-of-the-year-ab-inbev-to-expand-goose-island-beers-sambrook-s-launches-pale-ale-with-a-german-twist-beer-booms-at-purity There'll more for British drinkers on St Patrick's Day than a ubiquitous stout from Dublin. This year some specialist beers from the United States will enliven the celebrations -- including one made with clover leaves Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:21:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/11/it-s-black-and-green-for-st-pat-s-day https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/02/11/it-s-black-and-green-for-st-pat-s-day One of Belgium's famous cities stages a beer festival in a magnificent medieval setting. There are also great bars to enjoy, such as 't Brugs Beertje (left) while a 19th-century brewery has reopened. And there's a brilliant guide book to help you find the best bars Thu, 07 Feb 2013 08:34:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/02/07/in-bruges-for-beer-bars-and-a-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/02/07/in-bruges-for-beer-bars-and-a-brewery Beer writer Matthew Kirkegaard pens an Open Letter to SABMiller's Australian boss at Carlton & United on how CUB could be misleading the drinking public by marketing a beer it brews as though it comes from a small independent company. Matt calls for more transparency for the consumer Thu, 31 Jan 2013 07:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/01/31/dirty-work-down-under https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/01/31/dirty-work-down-under The annual prize for the best British hop has gone to the grower of Fuggles, a variety that dates back to the 18th century Mon, 28 Jan 2013 17:13:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/28/historic-herb-is-top-of-the-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/28/historic-herb-is-top-of-the-hops Martin Slaughter rents brewery space in St Albans to produce a range of bottle-conditioned beers under the name of BoB, with some outrageous puns in the names...and good beer in the bottles Sat, 26 Jan 2013 15:23:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/26/why-bob-s-forever-blowing-bubbles https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/26/why-bob-s-forever-blowing-bubbles Elland Brewery in West Yorkshire has walked away with the Champion Winter Beer of Britain award for the second time with its 1872 Porter Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/23/yorkshire-brewer-triumphs-at-winter-fest https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/23/yorkshire-brewer-triumphs-at-winter-fest Specialist bars, including a brewpub, are bringing new pleasure to drinking in the Czech capital. They include Pivovarsky Klub, pictured, which specialises in beers from Czech micros Tue, 22 Jan 2013 11:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/22/new-pubs-brighten-beer-drinking-in-prague https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/22/new-pubs-brighten-beer-drinking-in-prague The Konrad Brewery in the Czech Republic survived Nazi occupation and 50 years of state ownership but was axed by Bass in 1998. But now it's back under Czech control,selling beer to many export markets and keen to establish itself in Britain Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/01/21/bounced-czech-is-back-in-business https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/01/21/bounced-czech-is-back-in-business CAMRA's annual Great British Winter Beer Festival returns to Manchester this week. Events include unveiling the Champion Winter Beer of Britain and beers brewed by women 'brewsters'. Pictured are Louise Treseder and Peter Martin with CAMRA's Nik Antona (centre) when Driftwood Spars in Cornwall won Champion Winter Beer of Britain in 2012 for Alfie's Revenge Mon, 21 Jan 2013 10:14:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/21/manning-winter-pumps-in-manchester https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/21/manning-winter-pumps-in-manchester Louise Ashworth (centre) on how she designed a beer with brewster Sara Barton (left) and sommelier Jane Peyton that is fruity rather than hoppy Sun, 20 Jan 2013 14:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/01/20/not-feeling-bitter-brewing-a-beer-for-women-who-are-not-mad-about-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/01/20/not-feeling-bitter-brewing-a-beer-for-women-who-are-not-mad-about-hops Celebrities including Hugh Grant (left) signed a 1,000-strong petition to stop the Phene Arms in London's Chelsea being turned into a £20 million private house. The pub was once the local of football legend George Best Sat, 19 Jan 2013 19:42:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/19/stars-sign-up-to-save-george-best-s-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/19/stars-sign-up-to-save-george-best-s-local As two young entrepreneurs prepare to bring back the name of Truman's, a look back at how the original London brewery was axed in the mad property scramble of the 1960s and 70s Sat, 19 Jan 2013 07:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/01/19/how-a-london-giant-was-sent-to-its-grave https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/01/19/how-a-london-giant-was-sent-to-its-grave The Head of Steam pub chain is beating the recession and pulling in big crowds with a policy of global beers and specialist tastings. Graham Frost, manager of Tilleys Bar in Newcastle (pictured) has imported Alaskan Smoked Porter with great success Tue, 15 Jan 2013 20:14:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/15/steaming-northern-pubs-show-how-to-pack-the-punters-in-with-global-craft-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/15/steaming-northern-pubs-show-how-to-pack-the-punters-in-with-global-craft-beers Guest Beer Writer Simon Jenkins reaches for a soothing pint when his publisher goes out of business Tue, 15 Jan 2013 09:55:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/01/15/who-needs-royalties-we-do-it-for-love https://protzonbeer.co.uk/columns/2013/01/15/who-needs-royalties-we-do-it-for-love Franciscan Well in Cork has been bought by global brewer Molson Coors, which will build a new site outside the city to develop sales to the U.S. and Europe. Pictured at the news of the sale are Alan Wolfe (left) of Molson Coors and Shane Long, founder of Franciscan Well Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/14/molson-coors-snaps-up-irish-craft-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/14/molson-coors-snaps-up-irish-craft-brewery Andrei Lussmann has won coveted awards for his food and has now added to customers' pleasure with a menu featuring beers from some of Britain's top craft brewers Wed, 09 Jan 2013 09:20:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/01/09/beer-on-the-menu-at-award-winning-restaurants https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2013/01/09/beer-on-the-menu-at-award-winning-restaurants Bruce Ash (seen left with Dr George Philliskirk of the Beer Academy) from Woodforde's Brewery near Norwich has won the coveted title of Beer Sommelier; Cask Ale Week to return this autumn; Hawkshead Brewery reports big jump in beer production; Christmas boost for Moorhouse Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:58:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/08/news-roundup-woodforde-s-cask-marque-hawkshead-moorhouse https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2013/01/08/news-roundup-woodforde-s-cask-marque-hawkshead-moorhouse Follow the wonderful world of brewing in this video shot exclusively for protzonbeer.co.uk. John Bexon, head brewer at Greene King, takes Roger Protz round his traditional brew house and fermenting area, taking in the ancient wooden vats where Strong Suffolk is matured. They then taste and discuss a range of Suffolk beer. Mon, 31 Dec 2012 15:30:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/12/31/the-magic-of-brewing-the-joy-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/12/31/the-magic-of-brewing-the-joy-of-beer Attempts to sort out the festering trademark dispute between Budweiser Budvar of the Czech Republic (brewhouse pictured) and American giant Anheuser Busch have failed. Jiri Bocek of Budvar says AB wants to dominate world markets and squeeze Budvar out Fri, 21 Dec 2012 10:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/21/budweiser-talks-break-down-again https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/21/budweiser-talks-break-down-again American brewmaster Mitch Steele makes a major contribution to our knowledge of India Pale Ale, both ancient and modern, in a book that traces the history of the style and its rediscovery on both sides of the Atlantic Sun, 16 Dec 2012 19:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/12/16/searching-for-the-roots-of-ipa-the-beer-style-that-changed-the-world-of-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/12/16/searching-for-the-roots-of-ipa-the-beer-style-that-changed-the-world-of-brewing Truman's Brewery, once an East End colossus, will rise from the ashes in March when a new site opens in Hackney Wick and will restore a name beloved by legions of cockney drinkers Fri, 14 Dec 2012 09:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/12/14/truman-s-the-eagle-has-almost-landed https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/12/14/truman-s-the-eagle-has-almost-landed Beer is a fine companion at the dining table and you can enrich your Christmas pleasure with special festival ales, including the range available from Real Beer Box ,Beers of Europe and Chiltern Brewery (left) Wed, 12 Dec 2012 10:41:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/12/yule-tide-over-with-great-festive-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/12/yule-tide-over-with-great-festive-beers Sriram Aylur of Quilon's restaurant in London has added a wide range of beers -- from lagers to ales -- to his Michelin-starred menus and is winning growing interest from diners Sat, 08 Dec 2012 11:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/08/michelin-star-chef-sings-praises-of-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/08/michelin-star-chef-sings-praises-of-beer Pete Brown named Beer Writer of the Year with top prizes for Roger Protz, Alastair Gilmour, Simon Jenkins, Tim Webb, Martyn Cornell, Will Hawkes and Tim Hampson. Sara Barton named Brewer of the Year Sat, 08 Dec 2012 09:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/08/top-beer-writers-honoured-in-guild-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/08/top-beer-writers-honoured-in-guild-awards Burton brewery to build on success of 'single hop beer' with new range for 2013 with hops drawn from England, the United States and New Zealand after listening to drinkers' views on 2012 ales Mon, 03 Dec 2012 17:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/03/marston-s-on-the-hop-for-new-range-of-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/12/03/marston-s-on-the-hop-for-new-range-of-ales As Christmas draws near, a number of breweries will stage such events as open days, brewery tours, beer tastings and choosing hampers at Chiltern Brewery (left). Meanwhile, Innis & Gunn in Edinburgh has put its entire workforce through an accreditation scheme with the Beer Academy, Otley Brewery in South Wales has opened a shop and a Cheshire pub has won plaudits. Titanic helps save village local Mon, 26 Nov 2012 19:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/26/news-roundup-brewery-festive-events-special-accreditation-for-innis-gunn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/26/news-roundup-brewery-festive-events-special-accreditation-for-innis-gunn Twenty-three years after the giant Truman's Brewery in London's Whitechapel closed, two young entrepreneurs, James Morgan and Michael George-Hemus, have successfully raised the money -- with support from East Londoners -- to open a new Truman's brewery in Hackney Wick in 2013 Fri, 23 Nov 2012 12:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/23/truman-s-to-return-to-east-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/23/truman-s-to-return-to-east-london The Tower of London's world-famous Traitor's Gate now adorns the pump clip of a new ruby cask beer from Fuller's of Chiswick that uses a blend of American and Australian hops Wed, 21 Nov 2012 16:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/21/fuller-s-launch-limited-edition-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/21/fuller-s-launch-limited-edition-ale Mike Benner (left), chief executive of the Campaign for Real Ale, says weak planning laws are allowing high street giants to take over viable pubs and are robbing local people of vital amenities Tue, 20 Nov 2012 08:54:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/20/camra-calls-on-government-to-stop-supermarkets-killing-community-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/20/camra-calls-on-government-to-stop-supermarkets-killing-community-pubs From the archive: how breweries are using whisky casks to develop new flavours in beer, including the Ola Dubh range brewed by Stewart Cail (left) at Harviestoun in Alva Sat, 17 Nov 2012 14:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/11/17/beer-and-whisky-from-the-mists-of-time-a-marriage-made-in-the-scottish-highlands https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/11/17/beer-and-whisky-from-the-mists-of-time-a-marriage-made-in-the-scottish-highlands In 1992 Paul Theakston of the famous Masham brewing clan, launched his own brewery with a business plan aimed solely at the free trade. Today Black Sheep ales are on sale in 1,000 pubs and bottled beers are available nationwide. Paul has now handed over day-to-day control to his sons Rob and Jo but he keeps a fatherly eye on the business and has helped devise a celebration beer to mark 20 years of success Mon, 12 Nov 2012 17:08:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/11/12/up-hill-down-dale-20-years-of-black-sheep-s-remarkable-brewing-success https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/11/12/up-hill-down-dale-20-years-of-black-sheep-s-remarkable-brewing-success In Shakespeare's Local, Pete Brown tells the riveting tale of the inn in Southwark that has withstood fire and pestilence and is now the capital's only galleried Elizabethan hostelry Thu, 08 Nov 2012 12:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/11/08/by-george--the-story-of-the-london-coaching-inn-that-won-t-lie-down https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/11/08/by-george--the-story-of-the-london-coaching-inn-that-won-t-lie-down Two books, with radically different approaches, chart Britain's lost beers and the breweries that produced them, including Tetley's of Leeds (left) Sun, 04 Nov 2012 20:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/11/04/trip-down-nostalgia-lane-to-find-the-great-beers-and-their-breweries-of-yesteryear https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/11/04/trip-down-nostalgia-lane-to-find-the-great-beers-and-their-breweries-of-yesteryear Beer Sommelier Jane Peyton recreates medieval ale for TV; Craft Beer Rising in London will celebrate innovation in brewing. David Bruce, ex-Firkins, is back and helping to open two new brewpubs; 550 pubs grace new Michelin guide Sat, 03 Nov 2012 12:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/03/roundup-beer-sommelier-on-tv-craft-beer-fest-brewpubs-planned-more-pubs-in-michelin-guide https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/11/03/roundup-beer-sommelier-on-tv-craft-beer-fest-brewpubs-planned-more-pubs-in-michelin-guide A master brewer and an archivist at Shepherd Neame in Kent have broken 19th-century codes to bring back a Double Stout and an IPA from a major brewing period Sat, 27 Oct 2012 12:59:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/27/brewery-code-breakers-in-kent-bring-back-iconic-beers-from-the-victorian-period https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/27/brewery-code-breakers-in-kent-bring-back-iconic-beers-from-the-victorian-period Strong Suffolk Ale, brewed by Greene King, is a potent link with 'country beers' brewed in the 18th century. It's a blend of two beers: the strongest is Old 5X aged in wooden vats for between one and two years. Now there's growing demand for Old 5X to be bottled as a separate beer Wed, 24 Oct 2012 12:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/24/x-marks-the-spot-for-historic-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/24/x-marks-the-spot-for-historic-beer MPs will hold a parliamentary debate on beer duty on 1 November as latest figures show a fall of 4.8% in pub sales in third quarter of the year. There are fears that more pubs will close unless the government scraps the Beer Duty Escalator Tue, 23 Oct 2012 09:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/23/mps-to-debate-beer-tax-as-sales-slump https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/23/mps-to-debate-beer-tax-as-sales-slump Batemans in Lincolnshire is a sturdy member of the small number of surviving family brewers. In the hands of the younger generation of Jaclyn and Stuart Bateman, the brewery is carving new routes to market by overhauling its beer range and improving its pub estate. Pictured: the Carpenters Arms in Boston Sat, 20 Oct 2012 09:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/20/family-brewer-keeps-the-flag-flying https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/20/family-brewer-keeps-the-flag-flying Brewers have walked away with 254 medals from the Great American Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado. 666 breweries from 48 states entered the 2012 competition. India Pale Ale and stronger versions were the talking point of the festival, along with a new category for Fresh Hop beers, using hops straight from the harvest. Image shows brewers at the awards ceremony Mon, 15 Oct 2012 12:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/15/american-brewers-go-for-gold-in-denver https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/15/american-brewers-go-for-gold-in-denver The English hop industry could die within a decade unless British brewers start to use more home-grown varieties. Once a major industry -- image shows hop pickers in the early 20th century -- it's now withering on the bine Wed, 10 Oct 2012 13:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/10/time-to-stand-up-for-english-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/10/time-to-stand-up-for-english-hops Batemans Brewery in Lincolnshire has won a top prize and a six-month listing in Sainsbury's stores by winning the prestigious Great British Beer Hunt. for its Mocha Beer, brewed with the addition of coffee beans. Picture shows Nathan Wride and Jaclyn Bateman from the brewery with host of the event Olly Smith Tue, 09 Oct 2012 12:17:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/09/batemans-triumph-in-sainsbury-s-beer-hunt https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/09/batemans-triumph-in-sainsbury-s-beer-hunt In a speech to MCC members at Lord's cricket ground on 8 October I outlined the historic links between beer and cricket, where the laws of the game were drawn up at the Bat & Ball pub in Hambledon (left), and then conducted a tasting of beers from breweries close to Test grounds Tue, 09 Oct 2012 10:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/09/never-stumped-for-a-good-pint https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/10/09/never-stumped-for-a-good-pint The Franciscan Well Brewery in Ireland's Second City plans a 10-fold expansion in order to export its stouts to the United States with its large Irish-American audience. Pictured are owner Shane Long (left) with head brewer Peter Lyall Sun, 07 Oct 2012 10:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/07/cork-brewery-plans-big-expansion-to-attack-the-american-market-with-its-strong-stouts https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/10/07/cork-brewery-plans-big-expansion-to-attack-the-american-market-with-its-strong-stouts The annual World Beer Awards has handed its top trophy to an American Pale Ale with additional awards going to a wide variety of categories, including Lager, Dark Beer, Pale Beer, Barley Wine and Flavoured Beer Sat, 29 Sep 2012 11:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/29/american-pale-ale-on-top-of-beer-world https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/29/american-pale-ale-on-top-of-beer-world In the annual Cask Report, author Pete Brown says that cask beer has shown great resilience and has grown its sales during a recession while the total beer market continues to decline. He urges more publicans to embrace the Try Before You Buy scheme to bring more drinkers in to the cask sector Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:42:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/28/cask-beer-bounces-back-on-nation-s-bars https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/28/cask-beer-bounces-back-on-nation-s-bars Pub operator Tony Brookes has surveyed high street beer prices before and after this year's budget and says supermarkets are selling beer so cheaply that it would be more profitable for publicans to buy from them instead of breweries Wed, 26 Sep 2012 14:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/26/head-of-steam-boss-accuses-supermarkets-of-killing-pubs-with-pre-budget-beer-prices https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/26/head-of-steam-boss-accuses-supermarkets-of-killing-pubs-with-pre-budget-beer-prices Beer's answer to Beaujolais Nouveau will be on show at Canterbury's Food & Drink Festival next week as brewers showcase special brews made with hops straight from the fields Sun, 23 Sep 2012 12:45:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/23/a-harvest-of-green-hop-beers-will-celebrate-the-new-crop-from-kent-s-historic-orchards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/23/a-harvest-of-green-hop-beers-will-celebrate-the-new-crop-from-kent-s-historic-orchards CAMRA -- the Campaign for Real Ale -- has won support from 100,000 beer lovers who have signed an e-petition that will lead to a parliamentary debate on the Beer Duty Escalator that increases the price of a pint every year. CAMRA chairman Colin Valentine (left) has hailed the result as a great victory for beer drinkers Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/20/axe-the-tax-petition-is-over-the-finishing-line-as-100-000-sign-up-for-key-debate https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/20/axe-the-tax-petition-is-over-the-finishing-line-as-100-000-sign-up-for-key-debate There'll be music and drinking in Pilsen in October as Pilsner Urquell marks 170 years since the original golden lager was first brewed. Brewmaster Vaclav Berka (pictured) will tap wooden casks of unfiltered beer as part of the celebrations Wed, 19 Sep 2012 16:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/19/world-s-first-golden-lager-to-celebrate-anniversary-in-style-in-pilsen-square https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/19/world-s-first-golden-lager-to-celebrate-anniversary-in-style-in-pilsen-square Chris France (left) and Mark Roberts aim to revolutionise beer retailing with a special online service for lovers of craft and global beer. In Barnsley, Acorn Brewery has won a top award for a pub that opened just a year ago. The Beer Academy names Jane Peyton as its first London Beer Sommelier. Saltaire Brewery wants photos to celebrate the Great British Pub Mon, 17 Sep 2012 20:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/17/round-up-online-beer-shop-launched-acorn-pub-wins-top-yorkshire-award-london-female-beer-sommelier-named-micro-offers-prizes-for-best-pub-photos https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/17/round-up-online-beer-shop-launched-acorn-pub-wins-top-yorkshire-award-london-female-beer-sommelier-named-micro-offers-prizes-for-best-pub-photos Tim Martin (left), founder of J D Wetherspoon, reported healthy profits but he will open fewer pubs this year as a result of the tax burden. He attacks the government for both high rates of duty and 'stealth taxes' that cost him £4 million a year -- but he's firmly against minimum pricing. Sun, 16 Sep 2012 07:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/09/16/beer-taxes-stop-crippling-pubs-says-w-spoon-boss-in-plea-to-government https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/09/16/beer-taxes-stop-crippling-pubs-says-w-spoon-boss-in-plea-to-government The 40th edition of CAMRA's annual guide records the biggest number of breweries for more than 70 years. The guide was launched in London's Buckingham Arms, just one of seven pubs that have appeared in all 40 editions. Among those attending the launch were Michael Hardman (left) and John Hanscomb, the first editors, seen with a copy of the 1974 edition Wed, 12 Sep 2012 18:20:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/12/good-beer-guide-celebrates-record-number-of-british-breweries-most-for-70-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/12/good-beer-guide-celebrates-record-number-of-british-breweries-most-for-70-years After years of domination by the Big Two, there are now 20 craft breweries in Ireland that are at long last offering drinkers a diverse range of ales, stouts and lagers. Xavier Baker (pictured) is just one of many independent brewers rolling back the tidal wave of the global giants' stouts Sun, 09 Sep 2012 11:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/09/09/good-beer-and-choice-return-to-ireland https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/09/09/good-beer-and-choice-return-to-ireland Tim and Webb and Stephen Beaumont pick up Jackson's torch to take readers on a dizzy tour of the modern beer world and its vast range of styles Fri, 07 Sep 2012 09:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/09/07/authors-pay-homage-to-both-michael-jackson-and-the-new-world-of-craft-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/09/07/authors-pay-homage-to-both-michael-jackson-and-the-new-world-of-craft-beer Jonathan Neame, chief executive of major regional brewer Shepherd Neame, says the "duty escalator" is doing great harm to pubs that are the centres of their communities Wed, 05 Sep 2012 12:24:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/09/05/neame-government-must-act-to-stop-beer-tax-killing-pubs-and-the-working-man-s-pint https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/09/05/neame-government-must-act-to-stop-beer-tax-killing-pubs-and-the-working-man-s-pint Tom Jenkinson, head brewer at Chiltern Brewery, has devised a special recipe for a strong bottle-conditioned beer to mark the special anniversary of the GBG. I was allowed to help start the brew Sun, 02 Sep 2012 07:12:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/02/chiltern-ruby-ale-salutes-40-years-of-camra-s-unique-good-beer-guide https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/09/02/chiltern-ruby-ale-salutes-40-years-of-camra-s-unique-good-beer-guide Head brewer John Keeling (left) launches three new bottled beers, including the latest Vintage Ale, an 'Old Burton' from the 1930s and a strong beer matured for a year in oak casks from Armagnac Tue, 28 Aug 2012 07:58:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/28/vintage-fuller-s-dives-into-history-books-and-gets-a-taste-for-french-brandy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/28/vintage-fuller-s-dives-into-history-books-and-gets-a-taste-for-french-brandy A beer commemorating Ketts Revolt against land enclosures in East Anglia has been brought back by Woodforde's Brewery near Norwich Tue, 21 Aug 2012 05:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/21/rebel-beer-stirs-up-norfolk https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/21/rebel-beer-stirs-up-norfolk Scotland's great city will host its second beer festival in September with the support of local brewers, including Petra Wetzel (left), who will brew a festival beer at her specialist WEST lager plant. In Edinburgh, Innis & Gunn, famous producers of oak-aged beer, are opening their first online shop Sun, 19 Aug 2012 04:50:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/19/glasgow-gets-ready-for-beer-bonanza https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/19/glasgow-gets-ready-for-beer-bonanza The chairman of the Campaign for Real Ale says pub closures must be tackled, the beer duty escalator has to be scrapped and if some brewers want to make keg beer -- 'be my guest' Fri, 17 Aug 2012 10:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/08/17/camra-s-colin-valentine-on-the-major-challenges-facing-the-booming-campaign https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/08/17/camra-s-colin-valentine-on-the-major-challenges-facing-the-booming-campaign BBC website talks to Roger Protz about how to taste and appreciate beer, filmed this week at the Great British Beer Festival at London Olympia Fri, 10 Aug 2012 10:21:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/10/the-joy-of-beer-at-gbbf-video https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/10/the-joy-of-beer-at-gbbf-video Flying Scotsman celebrates the restoration of the famous steam locomotive and will be on sale throughout the country. Hogs Back celebrates its 20th anniversary with a new range of pump clips. Chiltern launches a beer to aid the charity that runs Stoke Mandeville Stadium, birthplace of the Paralympics Fri, 10 Aug 2012 06:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/10/gbbf-round-up-new-beers-and-images-from-caledonian-hogs-back-and-chiltern https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/10/gbbf-round-up-new-beers-and-images-from-caledonian-hogs-back-and-chiltern Coniston No 9 Barley Wine was named Champion Beer of Britain at the Great British Beer Festival. It's the second time Coniston has won the title and Bluebird Bitter has a role to play in the strong ale Tue, 07 Aug 2012 12:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/07/cumbrian-beer-scales-the-olympian-heights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/07/cumbrian-beer-scales-the-olympian-heights From a 'beer desert' in the 1970s, London is once again a great brewing city with some 30 producers supplying all parts of the capital. Several of them will have their beers on show at the Great British Beer festival at Olympia this week. Tue, 07 Aug 2012 05:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/07/big-boom-in-london-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/07/big-boom-in-london-brewers The founder of Innis & Gunn, Dougal Sharp, who has spearheaded the development of beer aged in wood, talks about the changes in beer production in order to keep pace with demand. Sun, 05 Aug 2012 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/05/oak-aged-beer-an-interview-with-dougal-sharp-of-innis-gunn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/05/oak-aged-beer-an-interview-with-dougal-sharp-of-innis-gunn Kent family brewer Shepherd Neame swept the board in the International Beer Challenge, winning Gold, Silver and Bronze medals for its ales Sat, 04 Aug 2012 05:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/04/sheps-grabs-gold-in-beer-olympics https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/04/sheps-grabs-gold-in-beer-olympics Greene King's Old 5X will get a rare outing at the Great British Beer Festival. The 12% beer, part of the blend in Strong Suffolk Ale, will be available on draught in one-third servings Thu, 02 Aug 2012 14:08:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/02/oak-aged-legend-heads-for-olympia https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/08/02/oak-aged-legend-heads-for-olympia Sales of fruit-flavoured beers grew by 80% over the past year, making it the fastest-growing sector of the British beer market. And sales are set to rise even further as the swing to ale and cider continues Mon, 30 Jul 2012 04:31:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/30/big-surge-in-fruit-beer-sales-up-80 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/30/big-surge-in-fruit-beer-sales-up-80 Thornbridge's flagship beer has been named one of the top drinks in Britain in the prestigious Great Taste awards while Butcombe in the West Country has been short-listed in food industry awards Fri, 27 Jul 2012 08:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/27/jaipur-ipa-wins-major-top-50-billing-and-butcombe-reaches-finals-of-industry-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/27/jaipur-ipa-wins-major-top-50-billing-and-butcombe-reaches-finals-of-industry-awards The 2012 GBBF will be more than just a beer festival -- it's a celebration of the remarkable revival of beer on a world scale Sun, 22 Jul 2012 09:02:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/22/go-for-gold-at-london-s-beer-olympics https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/22/go-for-gold-at-london-s-beer-olympics Sink or Swim, a strong India Pale Ale, brewed to a Victorian recipe, and aged for five months, is now on sale -- in half pints only -- at the Hop Pole pub in Aylesbury Sat, 21 Jul 2012 05:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/21/aylesbury-ipa-breaks-its-duck https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/21/aylesbury-ipa-breaks-its-duck Wheat Watchers, a raspberry fruit beer brewed by Brewsters, has been designed as a soft and fruity beer that will appeal to women drinkers. In Lancashire, Moorhouse's is to stage a 'Beer Ascot' with 25 beers produced by brewsters. Chef Angela Hartnett has visited Shepherd Neame to see how beer is brewed for a forthcoming BBC2 series Fri, 20 Jul 2012 05:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/20/big-push-by-brewsters-to-win-more-women-to-the-pleasures-of-beer-but-easy-on-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/20/big-push-by-brewsters-to-win-more-women-to-the-pleasures-of-beer-but-easy-on-hops Fordham and Old Dominion beers from Delaware have links to America's pre-revolutionary period and they are now on sale in Britain in bottle and on tap Sun, 15 Jul 2012 13:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/15/american-beers-with-colonial-history-hit-british-bars-and-specialist-retailers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/15/american-beers-with-colonial-history-hit-british-bars-and-specialist-retailers Stratford may be a 'Heineken exclusion zone' for the Olympics but you can enjoy good beer in the Kings Cross/St Pancras area before heading east. Pictured is Fuller's new Parcel Yard at Kings Cross Sat, 14 Jul 2012 04:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/14/look-north-for-a-decent-pint-before-heading-east-for-olympics-stadium https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/14/look-north-for-a-decent-pint-before-heading-east-for-olympics-stadium An open letter to the Economic Secretary to the Treasury who supports the Beer Duty Escalator Thu, 12 Jul 2012 02:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/12/get-off-the-escalator-ms-smith https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/07/12/get-off-the-escalator-ms-smith Derby Brewing Co and Red Arrow Buses have joined forces to launch a special beer for visitors taking the bus to Derby Beer Festival Sat, 07 Jul 2012 06:03:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/07/hop-on-a-bus-with-special-festival-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/07/hop-on-a-bus-with-special-festival-ale The British Court of Appeal has backed the Czech Budvar brewery and says both Budweiser brands can use the full trademark name in the UK. At the same time, Budvar has ended its deal with AB InBev to import the Czech beer in the U.S. Thu, 05 Jul 2012 16:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/05/czech-victory-in-new-battle-of-the-buds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/05/czech-victory-in-new-battle-of-the-buds A male voice choir from the U.S. was so inspired by Marston's world-famous Union Rooms in Burton that they burst into song with both the American and British national anthems Wed, 04 Jul 2012 05:47:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/04/michigan-choir-s-4-july-serenade-for-pedigree-in-famous-union-rooms https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/04/michigan-choir-s-4-july-serenade-for-pedigree-in-famous-union-rooms Dorothy Goodbody brewer Wye Valley is making a major investment in a new brewhouse and is using the same team that successfully designed the new Moorhouse's plant in Burnley. *Thornbridge Brewery is adding to its estate by leasing a pub in Sheffield from Punch Taverns Mon, 02 Jul 2012 14:23:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/02/wye-valley-to-invest-2m-to-expand-brewery-and-keep-pace-with-demand https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/02/wye-valley-to-invest-2m-to-expand-brewery-and-keep-pace-with-demand Johan Van Dyck has dug deep into the secrets of brewing in Antwerp in the 18th and 19th centuries to restore Seef, a beer style described as 'the working man's champagne', which was lost with the arrival of mass-marketed lagers Sun, 01 Jul 2012 05:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/01/beer-artist-van-dyck-recreates-the-historic-beer-of-antwerp-that-was-killed-off-by-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/07/01/beer-artist-van-dyck-recreates-the-historic-beer-of-antwerp-that-was-killed-off-by-lager The Farriers Arms in St Albans flew the real ale flag in the 1970s and is now visited by legions of cask beer drinkers anxious to worship at at the shrine where first CAMRA branch was founded Thu, 28 Jun 2012 08:22:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/28/great-little-local-at-heart-of-cask-revolution https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/28/great-little-local-at-heart-of-cask-revolution McMullen of Hertford, celebrating 185 years of brewing this year, says the high rates of duty and VAT it hands the government are hampering its ability to invest in its pubs. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 08:01:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/27/tax-burden-crippling-family-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/27/tax-burden-crippling-family-brewers One of the iconic cask beers of the 1970s -- once worth 850,000 barrels a year -- faces likely extinction as AB InBev searches for a brewery willing to produce the beer Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/25/will-boddingtons-get-the-bullet https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/25/will-boddingtons-get-the-bullet A conference hosted by the Soil Association and Laverstoke Farm on 3 July in Hampshire will discuss all aspects of organic beer production, including the use of malt and hops Sat, 23 Jun 2012 05:37:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/23/future-of-brewing-under-the-spotlight https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/23/future-of-brewing-under-the-spotlight Leading Australian craft brewer Little Creatures faces a A$381 million bid by Lion, owner of XXXX, Boag's and Toohey's. Thu, 21 Jun 2012 07:39:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/21/aussie-craft-brewer-faces-takeover-bid-by-giant-behind-castlemaine-and-toohey-s https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/21/aussie-craft-brewer-faces-takeover-bid-by-giant-behind-castlemaine-and-toohey-s Fuller's has moved away from its traditional use of English hops and has imported four American varieties for a new cask ale, Wild River. In Kent. Westerham Brewery launches a new cask beer with nine hops. Further north, Moorhouse's introduces a new golden ale while in Burton Marston's has caught a cough with an old brewery artefact Sat, 16 Jun 2012 10:14:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/16/fuller-s-gets-bitter-with-u-s-style-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/16/fuller-s-gets-bitter-with-u-s-style-beer Head brewer Stuart Howe has brought his love of Belgian beer to his brewery at Rock where he has launched the first in a new range of full-tasting, complex, bottle-conditioned ales Thu, 14 Jun 2012 10:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/14/belgium-comes-to-cornwall-with-sharp-s-new-range-of-connoisseurs-bottled-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/14/belgium-comes-to-cornwall-with-sharp-s-new-range-of-connoisseurs-bottled-beers Inspired by the Victorian railway pioneer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Box Steam Brewery in Wiltshire has launched three of its cask beers in bottled form for the pleasure of both ale lovers and steam buffs Mon, 11 Jun 2012 12:27:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/11/brunel-beers-steam-ahead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/11/brunel-beers-steam-ahead William Worthington's White Shield, now safely back in its original Burton home, has been given an elegant new bottle design to further boost its sales revival Thu, 07 Jun 2012 20:25:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/07/new-livery-for-historic-burton-ipa https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/07/new-livery-for-historic-burton-ipa Otley Brewery in South Wales is staging a Grape versus Grain evening at its celebrated pub, the Bunch of Grapes. Diners will be asked to judge whether ale or wine is the best companion during a five-course meal cooked by a celebrated chef Sun, 03 Jun 2012 13:40:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/03/the-great-welsh-beer-and-wine-challenge https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/06/03/the-great-welsh-beer-and-wine-challenge Elgood's brewery in Wisbech dates from Georgian times and is under pressure from both large regionals and micros. But Belinda, Claire and Jennifer are carving our new routes to market to save the brewery for future generations Fri, 01 Jun 2012 09:13:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/01/three-sisters-are-keeping-their-fenland-family-brewery-safe-for-the-future https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/06/01/three-sisters-are-keeping-their-fenland-family-brewery-safe-for-the-future City of Ale is back in Norfolk's capital with 60 pubs and 39 breweries offering a wide range of beers in the 10-day event. It's a remarkable turnaround for a city that lost all its breweries in the 1960s and 70s Wed, 30 May 2012 13:16:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/30/norwich-celebrates-the-great-beer-revival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/30/norwich-celebrates-the-great-beer-revival Three beers from Fordham and Old Dominion will be launched in British bars and will add to the pleasure of drinkers looking for new aromas and flavours Tue, 29 May 2012 11:57:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/29/american-summer-seasonals-hit-british-bars https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/29/american-summer-seasonals-hit-british-bars Ampleforth Abbey in Yorkshire is to launch a beer that helps bring back the brewing tradition lost at the time of the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII. Benedictines brewed in exile in France Sun, 27 May 2012 15:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/27/yorkshire-monks-restore-the-abbey-habit https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/27/yorkshire-monks-restore-the-abbey-habit One of the leading American craft breweries, based in California, plans a new facility in North Carolina that will dramatically grow production of such key brands as Pale Ale and Torpedo IPA Fri, 25 May 2012 12:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/25/sierra-nevada-is-full-of-eastern-promise https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/25/sierra-nevada-is-full-of-eastern-promise Three beers that won Gold in SIBA's National Beer Competition will hit 1,000 Punch pubs during the Royal Jubilee weekend and Euro 2012 Fri, 25 May 2012 09:34:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/25/gold-medal-beers-pack-a-punch https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/25/gold-medal-beers-pack-a-punch A beer that has won more Champion Beer of Britain awards than any other was first brewed in 1952 and is now one of Britain's key national premium ales Sun, 20 May 2012 10:49:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/20/taylor-s-landlord-notches-up-60-years https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/20/taylor-s-landlord-notches-up-60-years Dave Wickett, owner of the Fat Cat pub and Kelham Island brewery in Sheffield, has died after a long battle with cancer. He was a major figure of the 'real ale revolution' and inspired a legion of new micro-brewers to follow his path Thu, 17 May 2012 16:32:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/17/dave-wickett-the-man-who-brought-back-beer-and-pride-to-sheffield-s-steel-city https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/17/dave-wickett-the-man-who-brought-back-beer-and-pride-to-sheffield-s-steel-city Adnams, Harveys and Windsor & Eton have added to the growing number of beers brewed to mark the Royal Jubilee in June. Harvey's beer is based on a 1952 Coronation Ale, Adnams bows the knee with Sovereign hops while Windsor & Eton recall a historic event in Kenya Fri, 11 May 2012 18:43:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/11/royal-out-the-barrel-jubilee-beers-hit-the-pumps-in-time-for-big-june-celebrations https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/11/royal-out-the-barrel-jubilee-beers-hit-the-pumps-in-time-for-big-june-celebrations Diageo, producer of such brands as Guinness, Johnnie Walker and Smirnoff, was forced to make a grovelling apology to Scottish craft brewer BrewDog after a crude attempt to hijack an awards ceremony Thu, 10 May 2012 14:33:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/10/global-bully-boys-attempt-to-steal-scottish-craft-brewery-s-top-bar-of-the-year-award https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/10/global-bully-boys-attempt-to-steal-scottish-craft-brewery-s-top-bar-of-the-year-award In a major interview, Budweiser Budvar boss Jiri Bocek reveals a government scheme to strip the brewery of key export markets and end the trademark dispute to AB InBev's advantage. He outlines how a leading Czech entrepreneur engineered the sale of the Mestansky Brewery -- which also owns the Budweiser trademark -- to AB InBev and he is sharply critical of the role of global brewers interested only in making profits rather than good beer Thu, 10 May 2012 08:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/10/bounced-czech-the-plot-to-do-down-budvar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/10/bounced-czech-the-plot-to-do-down-budvar The capital was once dubbed a 'beer desert' but today there are close to two dozen breweries bringing fine tasting ales back to London. Some of the breweries, such as Meantime (left) and Sambrooks, have grown to the size of small regionals Sun, 06 May 2012 11:15:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/06/london-beer-reborn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/05/06/london-beer-reborn Cumbrian brewery launches three beers in 'well-hopped collection' using hop varieties from several countries Fri, 04 May 2012 14:23:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/04/hawkshead-heads-for-hoppy-heights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/04/hawkshead-heads-for-hoppy-heights Attempts by the Czech government to sack Jiri Bocek (left), manager of Budweiser Budvar, have failed, along with a deal to settle the trademark dispute to the advantage of AB InBev Thu, 03 May 2012 09:23:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/03/budvar-boss-sees-off-his-critics https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/03/budvar-boss-sees-off-his-critics Yorkshire brewery under new ownership launches a session pale ale along with rebranding of pump clips and company image Tue, 01 May 2012 17:56:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/01/new-image-for-roosters https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/05/01/new-image-for-roosters Veteran pub walks writer Bob Steel has compiled a compendium of fine hostelries to visit in the vast region of South East England. There are many historic inns to find, such as Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/04/24/these-boots-are-meant-for-pub-walking https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/04/24/these-boots-are-meant-for-pub-walking It was once simply called 'P' then in 1952 a competition at Marston's brought forth the name of Pedigree, a beer still brewed with the world-famous Union Sets (left) Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:38:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/04/20/pedigree-hits-60-happy-birthday-to-classic-burton-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/04/20/pedigree-hits-60-happy-birthday-to-classic-burton-ale Barnsley Brewery says it's not irreverent to have a touch of the punk with their beer for the jubilee. Marston's uses an English hop to salute the Queen Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:52:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/18/acorn-rolls-out-a-royal-ale-and-marston-s-bottles-sovereign https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/18/acorn-rolls-out-a-royal-ale-and-marston-s-bottles-sovereign The Queen's Head near Cambridge is a historic inn that was closed when a London family bought it and breathed life back into the community. It's been in every edition of the Good Beer Guide Sun, 15 Apr 2012 12:09:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/04/15/how-the-shorts-saved-historic-country-inn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/04/15/how-the-shorts-saved-historic-country-inn Global brewer will supply Stratford and all other venues, including Lord's cricket ground (pictured) where Marston's Pedigree will be removed for duration of the games. Brains beers will be taken out of the Millennium Stadium. Fri, 13 Apr 2012 07:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/13/going-dutch-at-olympics-heineken-has-sole-rights https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/13/going-dutch-at-olympics-heineken-has-sole-rights Swindon's family brewery, founded in 1843, has appointed Alex Arkell to be the new head brewer and he plans to introduce cask beer to a younger generation of drinkers. One of his first steps is to bring back Mild Ale for May Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/11/arkell-s-keeps-it-in-the-family-and-brings-back-mild-for-may https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/11/arkell-s-keeps-it-in-the-family-and-brings-back-mild-for-may Beer writer Jeff Evans boosts both beer and pubs with a timely guide to Britain's beer styles and the best watering holes where you can enjoy them Sun, 08 Apr 2012 11:06:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/04/08/champion-of-britain-s-pubs-and-breweries https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/04/08/champion-of-britain-s-pubs-and-breweries Greene King, Marston's and Wells & Young's are growing the cask beer sector and attracting new, younger drinkers. They should be praised, not vilified Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:41:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/04/05/don-t-dump-on-big-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/04/05/don-t-dump-on-big-brewers Staropramen, the second biggest brewery in the Czech Republic, has been bought by Molson Coors. The American-Canadian giant has taken over breweries in central Europe owned by StarBev. Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:32:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/04/czech-brewer-bought-by-carling-giant https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/04/czech-brewer-bought-by-carling-giant Lincolnshire family brewery will stage a beer festival in Wainfleet to help raise funds for Walk the Walk, which sponsors research into all forms of cancer Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/03/bateman-s-beer-boosts-cancer-charity https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/03/bateman-s-beer-boosts-cancer-charity Derbyshire independent wins top trophy in prestigious Publican search for Britain's best micro-brewery Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:55:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/02/thornbridge-triumphs-in-top-awards https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/04/02/thornbridge-triumphs-in-top-awards Brewers in the U.S. and Scotland accept challenge to produce a strong IPA without hops Wed, 28 Mar 2012 22:19:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/28/let-slip-the-dogs-of-brew-war https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/28/let-slip-the-dogs-of-brew-war Suffolk brewer records sales and profits increase despite 'difficult trading times'. New beer Ghost Ship and low-strength Sole Bay are selling well Wed, 28 Mar 2012 18:35:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/28/seaside-success-for-adnams-cask-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/28/seaside-success-for-adnams-cask-beers Independent breweries in the U.S. now hit 2,000 while in Britain Moorhouse's brewery singled out for praise for growth increase and launches special beer to celebrate the spring Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:11:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/27/big-surge-for-american-craft-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/27/big-surge-for-american-craft-beer Suffolk brewer is spending £4 million on a TV promotion for IPA -- and is also launching two new stronger versions of the brand Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:11:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/23/greene-king-goes-for-gold-with-new-ipa-promotion https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/23/greene-king-goes-for-gold-with-new-ipa-promotion The Chancellor told parliament he had no plans to change alcohol duties -- but the beer escalator will again push up the price of a pint. He has been condemned by both Keith Bott of SIBA (pictured) and CAMRA Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:40:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/21/osborne-escalator-will-jack-up-price-of-pint-by-5-10-pence https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/21/osborne-escalator-will-jack-up-price-of-pint-by-5-10-pence Craft brewing is booming in Australia and New Zealand, with brewers such as Chuck Hahn (pictured) fashioning fine pale ales and Pilsners -- all detailed in a fine guide to drinking Down There Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:36:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/03/19/get-the-low-down-on-down-under-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2012/03/19/get-the-low-down-on-down-under-beer Artisan Italian brewer launches British and Belgian style ales and encourages chefs to match beer and fine food in the Naples area Sat, 17 Mar 2012 15:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/17/brewing-up-a-storm-in-the-shadow-of-vesuvius https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/17/brewing-up-a-storm-in-the-shadow-of-vesuvius Website uses my name without permission to promote plastic beer device Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:28:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/15/what-s-a-beer-koozie-anyway https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/15/what-s-a-beer-koozie-anyway Innis & Gunn, the Scottish brewer that started the oak-aged beer trend, has added a stout aged in Irish whiskey casks in time for St Patrick's Day Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:47:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/14/scottish-oak-aged-beer-gets-an-irish-twist https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/14/scottish-oak-aged-beer-gets-an-irish-twist Oakham named supreme champion British beer; Flying Dog launch coffee stout; Peerless wins Mersey prize for cask lager; Good Beer Guide honoured; Robinson's to stock Hawkshead lager Sat, 10 Mar 2012 20:05:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/10/beer-news-round-up https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/10/beer-news-round-up With a little help from professional brewers, I start the mash for a genuine India Pale Ale that will take three months to reach maturity Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/08/ipa-sets-sail-from-aylesbury https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/08/ipa-sets-sail-from-aylesbury London debate shows how great European beers are stored and matured while 'yellow fizz' is brewed as fast as ale Sat, 03 Mar 2012 11:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/03/global-lagers-get-a-frosty-reception https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/03/03/global-lagers-get-a-frosty-reception ....Fuller's Black Cab Stout is now in bottle following a successful launch on draught and will soon be on a shelf near you Sat, 03 Mar 2012 09:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/03/call-a-cab-and-head-for-a-supermarket-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/03/call-a-cab-and-head-for-a-supermarket-1 Adnams IPA is now on draught as well as in bottle: hurry as the draught is called a 'winter seasonal' and spring is lurking Fri, 02 Mar 2012 12:32:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/02/adnams-ipa-beer-of-the-month https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/03/02/adnams-ipa-beer-of-the-month Acorn opens brewery tap; Wye Valley revives historic pub; Marston's record bottled ale sales Sun, 26 Feb 2012 13:06:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/26/news-round-up-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/26/news-round-up-1 Brewer launches 12 seasonal ales using hops from England, Europe and the New World to emphasise different aromas and flavours Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/23/marston-s-boost-for-hops-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/23/marston-s-boost-for-hops-1 The Trappist monastery of Mont des Cats has restored its brewing heritage -- but the beer is brewed for the monks by Chimay until they can build their own brewery Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:19:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/02/17/french-trappists-restore-brewing-tradition https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/02/17/french-trappists-restore-brewing-tradition Greene King has discovered a batch of beer brewed in 1936 for the coronation of Edward VIII that was a victim of the abdication crisis Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:45:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/02/14/royal-beer-that-never-saw-the-light-of-day https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/02/14/royal-beer-that-never-saw-the-light-of-day The battle for the future of Budweiser Budvar reaches fever pitch as the government prepares to sack manager Jiri Bocek Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:44:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/07/budvar-boss-faces-the-axe https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/07/budvar-boss-faces-the-axe The future of the National Brewery Centre in Burton-on-Trent seems assured as visitor numbers double over the past year Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:26:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/03/numbers-double-at-brewery-centre https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/02/03/numbers-double-at-brewery-centre Fraoch, the legendary Heather Ale brewed by Williams Brothers in Alloa, has a new version matured in single malt whisky barrels from the Auchentoshan distillery in Clydeside Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:38:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/30/heather-ale-gets-the-whisky-treatment https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/30/heather-ale-gets-the-whisky-treatment People make the arduous train journey to a Cumbrian hamlet to sample the one-off beers at the Prince of Wales brewpub Sun, 29 Jan 2012 11:40:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/29/the-pub-now-standing-at-platform-one https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/29/the-pub-now-standing-at-platform-one The owners of Truman's beer brands will give a year's supply of beer to anyone who helps them find a site and restore the historic Black Eagle Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/25/free-beer-if-you-find-a-brewing-site-for-truman-s-in-east-london https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/25/free-beer-if-you-find-a-brewing-site-for-truman-s-in-east-london Beer from Dunbar will hit Greene Kings pubs nationwide Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/24/belhaven-stout-gets-national-roll-out https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/24/belhaven-stout-gets-national-roll-out Famous lambic brewer in Brussels is widening the boundaries with beers made with flowers and wine Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:49:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/24/cantillon-says-it-with-flowers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/24/cantillon-says-it-with-flowers A new brewery near Bodmin uses American equipment for a fresh taste of beer Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:57:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/21/harbour-lights-up-cornwall https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/21/harbour-lights-up-cornwall Driftwood Brewery in Cornwall has been crowned Champion Winter Beer of Britain at top CAMRA beer festival Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:22:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/18/cornish-brewery-wins-top-camra-prize https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/18/cornish-brewery-wins-top-camra-prize Timothy Taylor, Yorkshire brewer famous for its Landlord pale ale, has joined SIBA, the Society of Independent Brewers Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:01:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/16/tim-taylor-joins-the-indies https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/16/tim-taylor-joins-the-indies The Derbyshire craft brewery opened three new pubs in 2011 and is expanding its range of beers with both lager and ale. Sun, 15 Jan 2012 11:15:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/15/thornbridge-expands-beer-range-and-pub-estate https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/15/thornbridge-expands-beer-range-and-pub-estate MPs want an independent commission to investigate the giant pub companies and give greater freedom to publicans to choose guest beers Fri, 13 Jan 2012 07:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/13/mps-demand-overhaul-of-pubco-power https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/13/mps-demand-overhaul-of-pubco-power Fuller's and Wadworth launch beers in preparation for the Six Nations rugby tournament and hope to boost England's fortunes Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:39:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/12/scrum-down-for-rugby-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/12/scrum-down-for-rugby-beers Anheuser Busch has bought the Mestansky Brewery in the Czech Republic that, with Budvar, sells beer using the Budweiser trademark Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/12/u-s-giant-buys-czech-budweiser-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/12/u-s-giant-buys-czech-budweiser-brewery Czech Budvar's 'yeast beer' is to get regular sales in Britain due to demand from publicans and drinkers Sat, 07 Jan 2012 10:10:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/07/real-budvar-gets-a-boost https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/07/real-budvar-gets-a-boost CAMRA urges pubgoers to email MPs in a bid to support a call in parliament to curb the power of the giant pub companies Sat, 07 Jan 2012 09:23:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/07/camra-save-the-pub-plea https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/07/camra-save-the-pub-plea In the run-up to Christmas, major supermarket groups recorded a big surge in the sale of bottled ale. Tesco alone was 65% up on the same period in 2010 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:12:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/04/supermarkets-record-ale-sales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/04/supermarkets-record-ale-sales Oakham Ales of Peterborough has added the dark Hawse Buckler to its range of bottled beers Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:48:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/03/oakham-bottles-dark-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2012/01/03/oakham-bottles-dark-ale Two brothers have taken charge at the Chiltern Brewery and are building sales of their ales, which includes a version of 300s Old Ale served from oak whisky casks Mon, 02 Jan 2012 12:09:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/02/chiltern-heads-for-the-woods https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2012/01/02/chiltern-heads-for-the-woods Tesco says it was amazed by the demand for ale in the last 48 hours before Christmas Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:17:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/12/29/tesco-stunned-by-ale-demand https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/12/29/tesco-stunned-by-ale-demand Van Steenberge brewery in Belgium launches abbey beer St Stefanus in export markets in conjunction with monastery in Ghent Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:50:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/29/getting-the-abbey-habit https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/29/getting-the-abbey-habit Review on The Oxford Companion to Beer, edited by Garrett Oliver and Tom Colicchio. Sat, 03 Dec 2011 02:55:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2011/12/03/the-oxford-companion-to-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2011/12/03/the-oxford-companion-to-beer This is a two-part feature. Part I looks at the general craft-brewing scene in AustraliaThree RavensAt the conclusion of Beer Expo, I went on an… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/what-s-brewing-down-under-part-ii https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/what-s-brewing-down-under-part-ii Roger has just returned from a stint down under as guest speaker at Melbourne's beer fest. In the first of his reports he investigates how… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/what-s-brewing-down-under https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/what-s-brewing-down-under A recent report that several major regional brewers have set up a think tank to promote interest in cask beer came at the same time… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/britain-s-beer-and-barley-heritage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/britain-s-beer-and-barley-heritage If you ask Martin Cullimore if he's suffering from any of the problems affecting the brewing industry, you get a dusty answer. "My only problem… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/bateman-s-marches-on https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/bateman-s-marches-on Global brewers are being urged to sell beer like soap if they are to hold on to market share and grow sales in emerging… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/selling-the-suds https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/selling-the-suds They may get in your heels and inspire you to dance. But Ale of old Burton if mellow and right Will get in your head… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/burton-ale-back-from-the-dead https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/burton-ale-back-from-the-dead Burton has got its museum back. The small Midlands borough renowned throughout the world as the home of pale ale brewing has a modern visitor… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/national-brewery-centre-lives https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/national-brewery-centre-lives Nine years and three months after Cain's first applied to join the Independent Family Brewers of Britain the Liverpool brewer has at last been admitted… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/cains-of-liverpool https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/cains-of-liverpool They call Cains brewery in Liverpool "the terracotta palace" and the striking redbrick buildings stand as testimony to Victorian pride and pomp. They are a… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/raising-cains https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/raising-cains From time to time a publican raises his head above the bar and has a pop at Camra, the Campaign for Real Ale. It happened… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/camra-pioneers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/camra-pioneers Family brewers in Britain have been falling like tottering drunks and it seems that nothing can stop this once-vibrant sector of the industry heading for… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/cooper-s-brewery-australia https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/cooper-s-brewery-australia There's a map on the wall in David Winter's office covered with pins that show all the pubs in Norfolk he used to supply with… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/angling-for-east-anglia https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/angling-for-east-anglia Marston's will launch Fast Cask during Cask Ale Week (29 March-5 April) with the aim of attracting thousands of new pubs to real beer.… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/fast-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/fast-cask It has an inshore, whitewashed lighthouse, famous beach huts painted in pastel shades, attractive Georgian and Victorian buildings, a clutch of fine pubs and the… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/adnams-new-green-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/adnams-new-green-brewery John Young will have a prominent place reserved in the Brewers' Hall of Fame, revered as the father of the "real ale revolution", an iconoclast… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/john-young-rip https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/john-young-rip Liefmans, the iconic Belgian brewer of "Oud Bruin" or Old Brown beer, has been saved from closure. The company based in Oudenaarde was declared bankrupt… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/liefmans https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/liefmans Brewing has returned to Stone. The small Staffordshire market town was once famous as the home of two sizeable breweries, Bents and Joules, both taken… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/leaving-no-stone-unturned https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/leaving-no-stone-unturned The British empire had long and beery tentacles. You fly for three hours and a bit deep into the Mediterranean, glimpse Mount Etna smoking… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/the-beers-of-malta https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/the-beers-of-malta It's all change at William Worthington's Brewery in Burton-on-Trent. The 22½-barrel plant that's on view to visitors at the National Brewery Centre - the… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/new-brewer-at-burton-museum-site https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/new-brewer-at-burton-museum-site The Cieszyn brewery that stands fortress-proud above the small Polish town of the same name is home to one of the world's historic beer styles,… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/porter-and-stout https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/porter-and-stout Angus McKean and Claire Morgan faced a daunting task when they took over the Red Lion in Barnes, South-west London. They had to convince loyal… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/the-master-cellarman-of-barnes https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/the-master-cellarman-of-barnes BUNNY GIRL SAVES COCKNEY BOOZER sounds like one of those weird headlines in the Daily Sport alongside "Elvis Found On Mars". But this is… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/not-so-sour-grapes https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/not-so-sour-grapes Thornbridge, the innovative craft brewery in the Derbyshire Peak District, has launched bottle-conditioned versions of three of its beers and is hopeful that one leading… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/thornbridge-bottles-it https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/thornbridge-bottles-it A new brewery in Derbyshire, which officially opened on 1 September, has some powerful history behind it. The plant for the Thornbridge brewery at Crompton… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/thornbridge https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/thornbridge It's good to report that a famous brew-pub - the Three Tuns in Bishop's Castle, between Ludlow and Shrewsbury - has been saved and is… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/three-tuns-weighs-in https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/three-tuns-weighs-in Worthington's White Shield, winner of the Champion Bottled Beer of Britain award on August 1st, is not only a worthy winner of the Guardian-sponsored competition… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/white-shield-a-worthy-champion https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/white-shield-a-worthy-champion Wychwood Brewery in Witney, Oxfordshire, has reported a steep rise in sale for its flagship beer, Hobgoblin. Total sales of draught and packaged versions are… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/hobgoblin-runs-riot https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/12/01/hobgoblin-runs-riot CAMRA, The Campaign for Real Ale, is calling for beer lovers to judge in the bottle-conditioned class of the Champion Beer of Britain competition.Judging will… Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/12/01/judges-required https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/12/01/judges-required home about forum tasted features A-Z directory books links sign-up wine whisky features The Oxford Companion to Beer By Roger Protz, 11/11… Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/11/01/the-oxford-companion-to-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/11/01/the-oxford-companion-to-beer "In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes," said Benjamin Franklin, one of the founders of the United States and a devoted beer… Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/09/01/strong-beer-big-tax https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/09/01/strong-beer-big-tax I helped launch a Burton Ale in Burton-on-Trent. Nothing remarkable about that, you might think, save for the fact that the beer in question was… Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/08/01/o-roger-it-s-a-burton-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/08/01/o-roger-it-s-a-burton-ale And now: CAMRA the Movie! You're probably aware that the Campaign for Real Ale is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and to emphasise the… Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/08/01/the-history-of-camra https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/08/01/the-history-of-camra A traditional dark mild with a Cockney rhyming slang name has won the title of Supreme Champion Beer of Britain at the CAMRA Great… Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2011 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2011 Carlsberg UK, the British subsidiary of the Danish brewing giant, has closed the Tetley brewery in Leeds and transferred production to Banks's brewery in Wolverhampton,… Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/07/01/farewell-to-tetley https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/07/01/farewell-to-tetley Two new breweries run by Trappist monks could be brewing soon. One brewery would mark the first monastic brewery in France in modern times, while… Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/06/01/new-trappist-breweries-in-the-pipeline https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2011/06/01/new-trappist-breweries-in-the-pipeline I got that tingle of excitement in February that only history can create. I was present at the opening of a bottle of beer that… Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/03/01/arctic-ale-1845 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/03/01/arctic-ale-1845 Reddish-brown colour, with a fruity and slightly herbal aroma and palate and a finish dominated by rich malt, a pleasing hint of chocolate (in keeping… Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/02/01/rochefort https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/02/01/rochefort What does the word "lager" mean to you? A cold, bland, fizzy drink knocked out in vast volumes by global brewers - or a beer… Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/01/01/budvar-lager-as-it-should-be https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2011/01/01/budvar-lager-as-it-should-be The timing was exquisite. Castle Rock Brewery picked up the coveted Champion Beer of Britain award last week just a fortnight before it opens a… Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/castle-rock-rocks https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/castle-rock-rocks Distance is no object in the brewing industry. The impressive brewing kit at Harviestoun in Scotland started life as a pilot plant in St Austell… Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/the-beers-of-harviestoun https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/the-beers-of-harviestoun The debate between the merits of bottle-conditioned beer and packaged beer that is filtered and pasteurised has taken an interesting turn with the discovery that… Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/hogs-back-in-great-condition https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/hogs-back-in-great-condition My earliest image of beer was a giant advertising hoarding for Truman's that stood between the Boleyn Tavern in East London and West Ham United's… Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/truman-s-hops-back-to-cockneyville https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/12/01/truman-s-hops-back-to-cockneyville Is there room in British pubs for yet another Pilsener-style German lager? The Veltins Brewery in North-west Germany thinks so. It's planning a major boost… Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/11/01/veltins-pilsener-s-push https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/11/01/veltins-pilsener-s-push Big spicy, peppery hop aroma with lemon fruit and cracker-like malt. Tart citrus fruit and bitter, peppery hops dominate the mouth but are balanced by… Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/11/01/westvleteren https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/11/01/westvleteren Alastair Hook (right, dwarfed by giant brewing vessels) is a brewer with a mission. He believes there's a thirst for better beer in Britain… Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/10/01/meantime-on-a-mission https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/10/01/meantime-on-a-mission A major re-development at Frederic Robinson of Stockport will see volumes of beer double from 50,000 barrels to 100,000 a year - and most of… Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/09/01/robinson-of-stockport https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/09/01/robinson-of-stockport A new book from Mike Pentelow and Peter Arkell, published by Janus at Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2010/09/01/a-pub-crawl-through-history https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2010/09/01/a-pub-crawl-through-history Castle Rock brewery in Nottingham won a unique prize in the Champion Beer of Britain competition - it's the second time it has won the… Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/08/01/castle-rock-wins-unique-beer-championship https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/08/01/castle-rock-wins-unique-beer-championship Fuller's has launched a new Brewer's Reserve, matured in Cognac casks from France. The West London brewer launched a new version of its Brewer's Reserve… Sun, 01 Aug 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2010/08/01/fuller-s-new-brewer-s-reserve https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2010/08/01/fuller-s-new-brewer-s-reserve 201 Clarence Street Sydney, NSW 02 9262 3303The Lord Nelson The Lord Nelson is a famous Sydney brewpub in 'the Rocks', an area of attractive… Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/06/01/beer-scene-in-sydney-part-ii https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/06/01/beer-scene-in-sydney-part-ii 99-101 Pyrmont Bridge Road Camperdown, NSW Tel: (02) 9519 3579 GO TO PART II - THE REDOAK AND LORD NELSON BREWPUBS. Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/06/01/beer-scene-in-sydney-part-i https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/06/01/beer-scene-in-sydney-part-i It's one of the wonders of the modern beer world that in a tiny part of Europe Trappist monks take time from their prayers to… Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/06/01/westmalle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/06/01/westmalle Revenge is sweet and train lovers felt a warm glow in 2009 when Swanage, the Dorset seaside town, was reunited with London by rail. It… Sat, 01 May 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/05/01/rail-ale-dorset https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/05/01/rail-ale-dorset (RP) Embra uses Maris Otter pale malt with crystal and wheat malts. The hops are Chinook and Magnum. The beer has a deep bronze/copper colour… Sat, 01 May 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2010/05/01/stewart-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2010/05/01/stewart-brewing Gale's Prize Old Ale (POA) is alive and well. The celebrated bottle-conditioned old ale, first brewed in the 1920s, seemed certain to disappear when… Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/04/01/gale-s-prize-old-ale https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/04/01/gale-s-prize-old-ale If you brewed a beer called Daylight Robbery you would expect a collective raspberry from both the media and consumers. It confirms the ancient belief… Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/04/01/st-austell-s-daylight-robbery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/04/01/st-austell-s-daylight-robbery At 9am on Thursday 11 February head brewer Jeremy Pettman and brewer Eldred Burns spun the wheels and pulled the levers above the mash tun… Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/02/01/jennings-brewery-reborn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/02/01/jennings-brewery-reborn De Trollekelder, 17 Bij Sint-Jacobs Brasserie Deus, 128 Vlaanderenstraat Bierhuis Castel, 9 Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein Waterhuis aan de Bierkant, 9 Groentenmarkt Het Trappistenhuis, 164 Brabantdam… Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/01/01/belgium-part-iii-ghent https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/01/01/belgium-part-iii-ghent 12b Roeselarestraat 8600 Esen Tours every Sunday 2pm, 3.50 euros with a free beer.Picobrouwerij Alvinne 138 Hellestraat 8501 Heule Shop open Thursday & Friday 10-4;… Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/01/01/belgium-s-wood-aged-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2010/01/01/belgium-s-wood-aged-beers See also our an in-depth profile of AdnamsNew pubs Three new Adnams' pubs, bought from Punch Taverns, includes the Butt & Oyster at Pin Mill… Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/adnams-pubs-and-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/adnams-pubs-and-beers Adnams, the family brewery founded in 1872 in the seaside town of Southwold in Suffolk, is vigorously fighting its way out of the recession and… Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/adnams https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/adnams The hand of history lies heavily on the beers of Belgium. Over the centuries it has been over-run by the French, the Dutch, the Germans… Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/belgium-part-i-liefmans https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/belgium-part-i-liefmans Liefmans tastedIn part I of Roger's report from Belgium he gives the background to Oudenaarde and tells the story of Liefmans brewery. In part II… Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/belgium-part-ii-liefmans-to-roman https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/belgium-part-ii-liefmans-to-roman The hand of history lies heavily on the beers of Belgium. Over the centuries it has been over-run by the French, the Dutch, the Germans… Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/belgium-part-i-liefmans https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/11/01/belgium-part-i-liefmans In the Spring I will be taking a look at some of the country's best rural pubs, but meanwhile, as we still have a bit… Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/10/01/urban-pubs-with-a-rural-feel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/10/01/urban-pubs-with-a-rural-feel "If he can say as you can Guinness is good for you, How good to be a Toucan: Just think what Toucan do".The image… Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/08/01/guinness-250-not-out-part-ii https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/08/01/guinness-250-not-out-part-ii Arthur Guinness, 250 years on, is still tripping the dark fantastic. The Irish brewery may be part of Diageo, a global drinks giant where Irish… Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/08/01/guinness-250-not-out https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/08/01/guinness-250-not-out That old slogan "let the train take the strain" comes vividly back to life when you travel to Derby. Not only is the Midland Station… Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/08/01/rail-ale-derby https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/08/01/rail-ale-derby A strong dark mild, Rudgate Ruby Mild (4.4%), has been voted the Champion Beer of Britain at the Great British Beer Festival in London.… Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2009/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2009 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2009/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2009 Hands up if you think real ale is drunk by old codgers in flat caps who keep whippets in the bath or by men of… Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/07/01/get-hip-the-real-ale-way https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/07/01/get-hip-the-real-ale-way Bateman Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2009/07/01/bateman-s-gha https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2009/07/01/bateman-s-gha When Josef Tolar, the legendary brewmaster at the Budweiser Budvar brewery in the Czech Republic, handed his thermometer to Adam Broz on 1 January this… Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/06/01/new-man-at-budvar-s-brewing-helm https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/06/01/new-man-at-budvar-s-brewing-helm Het Anker traces its origins back to the 16th century when sisters in a beguinage brewed beer for the sick. When it became a commercial brewery, it switched to Pils in the 20th century but has achieved greater success with a return to ale and the world-famous Gouden Carolus beers. And Het Anker has now added whisky -- Gouden Carolus matured in Scottish single malt casks Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/06/01/mechelen-where-anker-is-the-soul-of-good-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/06/01/mechelen-where-anker-is-the-soul-of-good-beer Cooper's brewery in Adelaide has beautifully sculpted lawns decorated with gum trees. Is this an elaborate joke? The company used to be laughed to derision… Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/05/01/clean-bowled-by-cooper-s https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/05/01/clean-bowled-by-cooper-s Britain Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/03/01/boom-time-for-britain-s-craft-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/03/01/boom-time-for-britain-s-craft-brewers BrewDog, the Scottish craft brewery based in Fraserburgh, believes in pushing the boundaries of beer making and doesn Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2009/03/01/brewdog-zeitgeist https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2009/03/01/brewdog-zeitgeist Don Burgess (right) has a refreshing outlook on life: "I live to brew beer, not to make money". He turns a penny or two, of… Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/01/01/freeminer-refreshes https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/01/01/freeminer-refreshes Innis & Gunn: the inspiration Interest in oak-aged beers is due to the remarkable work carried out by Dougal Sharp (right), former head brewer at… Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/01/01/oak-aged-beers-part-ii-the-dawn-of-a-new-beer-style-1 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/01/01/oak-aged-beers-part-ii-the-dawn-of-a-new-beer-style-1 This feature is in two parts. There is a link to part II at the bottom of the page.The launch in 2008 of three beers… Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/01/01/oak-aged-beers-part-i-sorting-the-wood-from-the-trees https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2009/01/01/oak-aged-beers-part-i-sorting-the-wood-from-the-trees The Results have just been announced of the CAMRA Champion Winter Beer of Britain awards for 2009. The tastings were held as part of… Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2009/01/01/champion-winter-beer-of-britain-2009 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2009/01/01/champion-winter-beer-of-britain-2009 Greene King's aim is to become Greener King as the giant regional brewer makes a positive contribution to combating global warming. It's shifting its entire… Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/11/01/jolly-greene-giant-gets-greener-in-bottle https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/11/01/jolly-greene-giant-gets-greener-in-bottle This list of 25 truly great british pubs accompanies an article by Roger Protz, first published in the Independent newspaper: The British pub is alive… Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/the-25-best-pubs-in-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/the-25-best-pubs-in-britain The British pub is alive and well: that's a claim that should cause the men in white coats to cart me off for a period… Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/the-british-pub-is-alive-and-well https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/the-british-pub-is-alive-and-well The niche market of oak-aged beers has received a major boost with the launch of Fuller's Brewer's Reserve. The size and reach of the Chiswick-based… Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/fuller-s-brewer-s-reserve https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/fuller-s-brewer-s-reserve In October 2008 I delivered the annual hop lecture at Shepherd Neame's brewery in Kent. Many people have asked for a printed version, so here… Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/10/01/hops The goose was well and truly cooked at the celebrated White Horse in Parson's Green, south London, on 12 September when beers from the Goose… Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/09/01/cooking-the-goose https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/09/01/cooking-the-goose 'Ambassador of Beer' may be over-stating my role in life but I can lay claim to have built good relations between Rodenbach, the famous sour… Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/09/01/the-old-crafty-hen https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/09/01/the-old-crafty-hen When German troops occupied the monastery of Achel during World War One they observed the conventions of war. As the monastery straddles the border between… Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/08/01/praise-be-to-achel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/08/01/praise-be-to-achel To accompany my feature article on the Trappist beers of Achel, I thought this was a good moment to reintroduce the 'Famous Five' beers brewed… Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/08/01/the-famous-five https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/08/01/the-famous-five 1. Adnams East Green (4.3%) Tesco Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2008/08/01/the-ten-best-summer-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2008/08/01/the-ten-best-summer-beers There's a small beer revolution going on in one of the remotest parts of England. The village of Hesket Newmarket in Cumbria has a bus… Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/06/01/revolution-in-cumbria https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/06/01/revolution-in-cumbria I pulled the first pint in the Royal Standard in Derby last week. At a time when pubs are shutting up shop at an alarming… Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/06/01/raising-the-standard https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/06/01/raising-the-standard InBev, the world's biggest brewer, is planning an audacious $46 billion ( Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/05/01/beer-giant-ponders-bid-for-bud https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/05/01/beer-giant-ponders-bid-for-bud National brewer Greene King has joined forces with the Campaign for Real Ale to promote its XX Mild in May as part of CAMRA's Mild… Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/05/01/mild-month-of-may https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/05/01/mild-month-of-may The Czech Republic has two, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands and Poland have one each yet from June this year Britain - one of the world's… Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/04/01/stop-press-protests-on-the-streets https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/04/01/stop-press-protests-on-the-streets Fuller's Vintage Ale (8.5%), first brewed in 1997, has become one of the most-talked about British beers, an iconic ale treated as seriously as fine… Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/04/01/fuller-s-vintage-advantage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2008/04/01/fuller-s-vintage-advantage A beer brewed in a disused milking parlour in Gloucestershire has been named Supreme Champion Beer of Britain in the annual awards held by Siba,… Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/03/01/society-of-independent-brewers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/03/01/society-of-independent-brewers Wye Valley Brewery has been cleared of using "sexually suggestive" labelling for its flagship brand Dorothy Goodbody's Wholesome Stout by the Independent Complaints Panel. The… Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/03/01/dorothy-goodbody-lives-on https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/03/01/dorothy-goodbody-lives-on Greene King is reaching out to a new generation of ale drinkers with a special promotion for Old Speckled Hen aimed at younger, style-conscious consumers.… Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/03/01/not-so-old-speckled-hen https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/03/01/not-so-old-speckled-hen home about forum tasted Protz features A-Z directory books links sign-up wine whisky Protz: features reviews tastings news & events books Great… Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/01/01/great-winter-ale-festival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2008/01/01/great-winter-ale-festival In the new edition of the Good Beer Guide I heralded a "golden age" for beer. How do I square this with the report on… Sat, 01 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/12/01/it-ain-t-necessarily-so https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/12/01/it-ain-t-necessarily-so As a result of protests from consumers and the people of the small town of Hoegaarden in Belgium, InBev has backed down and saved a… Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/10/01/famous-victory-for-hoegaarden https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/10/01/famous-victory-for-hoegaarden Waitrose has added new seasonal beers to its impressive range with products from craft brewers in both the north and south of England. St Peter's… Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/10/01/waitrose-s-crafty-brews https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/10/01/waitrose-s-crafty-brews The oldest Rauchbier brewery in Bamberg is the Christian Merz Spezial brewpub on Obere K Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/bamberg-part-ii-breweries-amp-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/bamberg-part-ii-breweries-amp-pubs If you are searching for Beer Paradise, there Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/bamberg-part-i-beer-paradise https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/bamberg-part-i-beer-paradise Michael Jackson's enduring legacy will be that he elevated beer from the belief that it is a simple refresher to its true status as one… Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/michael-jackson-1942-2007 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/michael-jackson-1942-2007 It's a journey into brewing history: almost hidden from view among modern production vessels at Greene King's Bury St Edmund's brewery are some wooden vessels… Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/strong-suffolk https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/09/01/strong-suffolk One of the most fascinating beers in British brewing is Greene King's Strong Suffolk, an example of an 18th century 'country beer', stored in wooden… Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/08/01/beer-with-bite https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/08/01/beer-with-bite Hobsons Mild is named Champion Beer of Britain A traditional mild ale with a modest strength of just 3.2% alcohol stormed to victory in the… Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2007 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2007 Lager is often described as the beer of the industrial age. The widely held view is that cold fermentation and storage - lagerung in German… Sun, 01 Jul 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/07/01/a-new-look-at-lager https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/07/01/a-new-look-at-lager An innovative scheme to deliver fresh cask-conditioned ale to consumers Sun, 01 Jul 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/07/01/direct-from-the-cellar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/07/01/direct-from-the-cellar A pub that was the centre of a major row last year has been bought by Fuller's -- with a promise to continue to sell… Sun, 01 Jul 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/07/01/quid-pro-quo-for-the-lewes-arms https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/07/01/quid-pro-quo-for-the-lewes-arms They say who dares, wins. It must be one of the most courageous changes of strategy ever by a major brewing company - the move… Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/06/01/heineken-s-brave-move https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/06/01/heineken-s-brave-move It was a classic case of putting my money where my mouth is. I've been writing about beer for 30 years and it was time… Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/06/01/roger-protz-tries-his-hand-at-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/06/01/roger-protz-tries-his-hand-at-brewing A surge of interest in U.S. craft beers has taken sales through the 10% barrier. American craft brewers recorded a stunning increase in sales in… Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/06/01/american-craft-beer-booms https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/06/01/american-craft-beer-booms The dread name of Watneys can still strike fear and loathing into an older generation of beer lovers. The giant London brewer wreaked havoc in… Tue, 01 May 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/05/01/down-in-nethergate-drive https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/05/01/down-in-nethergate-drive Those of us that chip away at the coalface labelled "beer" constantly stress that our preferred form of alcohol deserves as much attention and respect… Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/04/01/old-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/04/01/old-beers Budweiser Budvar, the state owned Czech brewery that has been embroiled in a century-long trademark dispute with American giant Anheuser-Busch, faces privatisation by the… Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/04/01/budvar-faces-privatisation https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/04/01/budvar-faces-privatisation Alastair Hook was tempted to call his brewery The Home for Abused Beer Styles but settled instead for Meantime. It was the natural pun-in-cheek name… Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/03/01/good-times-at-meantime https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/03/01/good-times-at-meantime Choice for Irish beer drinkers is gaining pace as more and more small breweries challenge the hegemony of Guinness and its subsidiaries.Beers from both breweries… Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/02/01/irish-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/02/01/irish-beers It's a long, steep clamber up from the railway station at Beersel to the small town with its moated castle, built early in the 14th… Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/01/01/the-sweet-sweet-sours-of-beersel https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2007/01/01/the-sweet-sweet-sours-of-beersel The beer world has been rocked by the news that two arch enemies, Anheuser-Busch of the United States and Budweiser Budvar of the Czech Republic,… Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/01/01/beer-world-rocked-as-two-budweisers-reach-a-deal https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2007/01/01/beer-world-rocked-as-two-budweisers-reach-a-deal The shock news that sales of Guinness have slumped by eight or nine per cent in the Irish Republic was one of those "end… Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/11/01/battle-for-the-black-stuff https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/11/01/battle-for-the-black-stuff Fergus McMullen tells his teenage children that if they take over from him at the family brewery when he retires they will "have a great… Fri, 01 Sep 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/09/01/mcmullen-of-herford-change-and-survival https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/09/01/mcmullen-of-herford-change-and-survival We all remember the summer of football fever as the World Cup dominated our screens, and a cry (in many languages) was heard around the… Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/08/01/world-cup-beer-i-think-not https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/08/01/world-cup-beer-i-think-not More than 66,000 people attended CAMRA's Great British Beer Festival in London between 1 and 5 August - close to 20,000 up on last year's… Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/08/01/beer-fest-sell-out-hails-a-revival-of-cask-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/08/01/beer-fest-sell-out-hails-a-revival-of-cask-beer When I told a fellow journalist I was off to Blackburn to visit Thwaites, he raised an eyebrow and muttered, "Ah, the sleeping giant." I've… Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/08/01/thwaites-of-blackburn https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/08/01/thwaites-of-blackburn Essex boys storm to victory for the second year in a row Crouch Valley Brewery near Chelmsford, Essex, scored a notable first in the 2006… Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2006 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2006 So St Albans in Hertfordshire is the best place in Britain for good cask beer. Those who live in the city (not a town, dear… Sat, 01 Jul 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/07/01/st-albans-beer-heaven https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/07/01/st-albans-beer-heaven The demand for cask beer in Britain and the fast-growing micro-brewery sector has forced CAMRA - the Campaign for Real Ale - to move its… Sat, 01 Jul 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/07/01/great-british-beer-festival-2006 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/07/01/great-british-beer-festival-2006 The Americanisation of British society gathers pace. A decade or more ago, I dropped into Jimmy Armstrong's Bar on 10th Avenue in Manhattan, New York… Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/06/01/beer-s-big-freeze https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/06/01/beer-s-big-freeze While the Dutch celebrate the 400th anniversary of Rembrandt Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/06/01/harrie-s-back-in-town https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/06/01/harrie-s-back-in-town Alcohol has not had a good press of late. George Best was scarcely in his grave when Charles Kennedy's struggle with alcoholism hit the headlines,… Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/05/01/demonizing-drink https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/05/01/demonizing-drink A major shake-up in the world of regional brewing was announced today with the shock news that iconic real ale brewer Young's of Wandsworth, south… Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/05/01/shock-news-young-s-of-wandsworth https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/05/01/shock-news-young-s-of-wandsworth The genie is out of the bottle. Beer is no longer seen as a quick refresher, a few pints down the pub. It has been… Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/04/01/beer-on-the-dining-table https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/04/01/beer-on-the-dining-table In 1966 a Belgian milkman named Pierre Celis was chatting to a group of friends. They reminisced about the style of beer that had once… Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/04/01/think-global-close-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/04/01/think-global-close-local Heineken used to brew a stout called Van Vollenhoven, based on a recipe from a brewery taken over and closed by the Dutch giant. It… Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/03/01/stout-hearts-and-dutch-courage https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/03/01/stout-hearts-and-dutch-courage Beer is raising its head above the ramparts in an area of south London packed with trendy restaurants and best known for the hugely successful… Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/02/01/setting-sail-for-london-s-brew-wharf https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/02/01/setting-sail-for-london-s-brew-wharf Stately homes and country houses used to have their own breweries, where the butlers made the beer, but the activity disappeared along with most of… Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/02/01/the-beeristocrats https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2006/02/01/the-beeristocrats A battle is raging over the heart, soul and future of brewing in the Czech Republic. The country that produced the first golden lager in… Sun, 01 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/01/01/czechs-and-balances https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/01/01/czechs-and-balances The Koningshoeven Brewery near Tilburg in the Netherlands has been given clearance by the International Trappist Association to use the ITA logo that guarantees its… Sun, 01 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/01/01/la-trappe-back-in-the-fold https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2006/01/01/la-trappe-back-in-the-fold Heineken recorded a remarkable sales boost of 29% in Britain in the first half of 2005, a sure sign that its move to sell its… Thu, 01 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/12/01/no-fibs-well-done-heineken https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/12/01/no-fibs-well-done-heineken Is it time to re-evaluate the origins of two 19th-century beer styles, India Pale Ale and Pale Ale? One veteran Scottish brewer, who has recently… Thu, 01 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/12/01/the-origins-of-the-species https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/12/01/the-origins-of-the-species When Reuters news agency left Fleet Street in London a couple of months ago there was a vast outpouring of grief in the media about… Tue, 01 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/11/01/the-booze-of-the-news https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/11/01/the-booze-of-the-news A special St Albans Ale has gone on sale in the Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Albans, restoring a potent link with the time… Tue, 01 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/11/01/beer-by-holy-orders https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/11/01/beer-by-holy-orders Richard Everard presses all the right buttons. "The family brewers are the custodians of cask beer," he says. "The nationals aren't interested in cask -… Sat, 01 Oct 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/10/01/alive-and-kicking-everards-cask-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/10/01/alive-and-kicking-everards-cask-ales A news item in last week Sat, 01 Oct 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/10/01/the-joy-of-cask-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/10/01/the-joy-of-cask-beer The Hook Norton Brewery was featured prominently in an earlier profile on beer-pages and remains an excellent example of British brewong tradtition. Just a short… Sat, 01 Oct 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/10/01/traditional-brewers-of-britain https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/10/01/traditional-brewers-of-britain It was when he fell off a ladder in his brewhouse that Richard Jenkinson knew it was time to hang up his mashing fork and… Thu, 01 Sep 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/09/01/the-ups-and-downs-of-the-chiltern-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/09/01/the-ups-and-downs-of-the-chiltern-brewery There were many fine messages of support for London following 7 July but the most poignant was a one-sentence letter in the Guardian from a… Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-we-are-all-londoners-now https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-we-are-all-londoners-now White smoke suddenly gushed from the chimney at Mauldons as we stepped from the brewhouse into the loading and delivery area. Steve Sims roared with… Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/08/01/mauldons-the-black-adder-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/08/01/mauldons-the-black-adder-brewery Crouch Vale, one of Britain's longest-running micro-breweries, won the prestigious Champion Beer of Britain competition on Tuesday 2 August at Camra's Great British Beer Festival… Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2005/08/01/the-great-british-beer-festival-2005 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2005/08/01/the-great-british-beer-festival-2005 Are British beer drinkers afraid of challenging flavours, hop bitterness in particular? The question is prompted by the recent news concerning the Meantime Brewery in… Fri, 01 Jul 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/07/01/who-s-afraid-of-the-big-bad-hops https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/07/01/who-s-afraid-of-the-big-bad-hops Somewhere deep in the bureaucracy of the European Union there is a unit composed of highly-paid people whose job is to think up the most… Fri, 01 Jul 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/07/01/the-importance-of-geography https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/07/01/the-importance-of-geography Is the British brewing industry on the verge of yet another major upheaval? Wolverhampton & Dudley has paid Fri, 01 Jul 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/07/01/in-praise-of-regionality https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/07/01/in-praise-of-regionality Bristol lost its historic George Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/sunshine-amp-smiles-at-the-beer-factory https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/sunshine-amp-smiles-at-the-beer-factory PIERRE Celis has been so badly mauled by global brewers that it was good to find him sprightly and cheerful at his home in the… Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/pierre-celis-maestro-of-white-beer https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/pierre-celis-maestro-of-white-beer Lager beer, most of it a pale pastiche of the golden beers brewed in the Czech Republic and Germany, accounts for more than 90% of… Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/pale-and-interesting https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/pale-and-interesting Have you had a Mackeson recently? The answer is probably no, as it's a beer that is hard to find these days. A trawl of… Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/make-mine-a-mackeson https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/06/01/make-mine-a-mackeson Signs outside the Wellington Hotel in the Horfield district of Bristol a couple of months ago announced "Beer Seminar with Roger Protz". Even though I've… Sun, 01 May 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/ship-shape-and-bristol-fashion https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/ship-shape-and-bristol-fashion I sometimes feel that a song of yesteryear, You Always Hurt the One You Love, should be the anthem of beer lovers of the anorak… Sun, 01 May 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/the-beers-of-chimay-plus-ca-change https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/the-beers-of-chimay-plus-ca-change Can Jennings survive? The takeover bid by Wolverhampton & Dudley has been accepted by the Cumbrian brewer, so there is little point in manning the… Sun, 01 May 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/jennings--another-one-bites-the-dust https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/jennings--another-one-bites-the-dust Government documents from 1975, released under the "30-year rule" recently, reveal a plan by Labour prime minister Harold Wilson to save small breweries from takeover… Sun, 01 May 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/something-political-brewing https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/05/01/something-political-brewing The Bread and Roses pub had organised a beer festival that featured most of the beers that have won the Champion Beer of Britain competition… Sun, 01 May 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2005/05/01/everything-s-coming-up-roses https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2005/05/01/everything-s-coming-up-roses One evening last week I went out for a few drinks with reporters on the Daily Mail. We toured a dozen pubs in London near… Fri, 01 Apr 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/04/01/shock-horror-let-s-have-a-sense-of-perspective-on-24-hour-opening https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/04/01/shock-horror-let-s-have-a-sense-of-perspective-on-24-hour-opening In 30 years of writing about beer I have come to agree more and more with the proposition put forward by the radical economist Ernst… Fri, 01 Apr 2005 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/04/01/grolsch-big-is-sometimes-beautiful https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/04/01/grolsch-big-is-sometimes-beautiful Beer-drinking circles were buzzing recently when Wetherspoons announced it was launching the famous Belgian beer De Koninck on draught throughout its 600-strong pub estate. De… Tue, 01 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/de-koninck-from-cask https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/de-koninck-from-cask I met Nick Stafford at a beer launch last week and, to my surprise, he said he felt small brewers needed to be more innovative.… Tue, 01 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/looking-back-to-innovate-elveden-ales https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/looking-back-to-innovate-elveden-ales Camra's newspaper What's Brewing enjoyed some lively debate recently on the subject of the ever-growing number of pale and hoppy cask beers. Such discussions can… Tue, 01 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/wither-winter-beers-the-big-chill https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/wither-winter-beers-the-big-chill In the days when trains had smoking compartments, a friend with both a wicked sense of humour and an addiction to nicotine would say to… Tue, 01 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/foggy-thinking-on-smoking https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/03/01/foggy-thinking-on-smoking It's good to see Whetherspoon's Chairman Tim Martin putting his money where his mouth is (see my article of November 2004) by announcing all pubs… Tue, 01 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/woolly-thinking-on-smoking-in-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/woolly-thinking-on-smoking-in-pubs The fall out from the closure of King & Barnes brewery in Horsham, West Sussex, has given this small town of around 60,000 people, not… Tue, 01 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/horsham-britain-s-brewtown https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/horsham-britain-s-brewtown Pinkus Muller is a sea of tranquillity in the German university town of Munster that has been a centre of turbulence for centuries. Anabaptists laid… Tue, 01 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/the-organic-beers-of-pinkus-m-uuml-ller https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/the-organic-beers-of-pinkus-m-uuml-ller It's a tough job being a regional brewer these days, doubly hard if you're in a part of the country where the population halves as… Tue, 01 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/st-austell-brewery-all-steamed-up https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/02/01/st-austell-brewery-all-steamed-up It's not only the Belgians who cherish and nurture classic beer styles. In spite of the best efforts of the global brewers to trample on… Tue, 01 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2005/02/01/old-british-beers-and-how-to-make-them https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2005/02/01/old-british-beers-and-how-to-make-them I was flicking disconsolately through the television channels one evening looking for a programme that wasn't a repeat or an insult to the intelligence when… Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/let-s-celebrate-britain-s-national-drink https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/let-s-celebrate-britain-s-national-drink They say the good thing about bashing your head against a brick wall is that it's wonderful when you stop. I wouldn't know: my cranium… Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/beer-the-writing-s-on-the-wall https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/beer-the-writing-s-on-the-wall I once witnessed an astonishing and possibly unique site at the Cantillon brewery in Brussels: CAMRA members refusing a second beer. It was an open… Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/cantillon-from-belgium-with-love https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/cantillon-from-belgium-with-love If I had a pound for every article I have read in the past year about the "real ale crisis" I would have money in… Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/real-ale-crisis-what-crisis https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2005/01/01/real-ale-crisis-what-crisis The recent announcement by Coors that it will end all cask beer production in Burton-on-Trent went almost unnoticed: it generated at most what journalists call… Wed, 01 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/12/01/gone-for-a-burton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/12/01/gone-for-a-burton A cynic might say that the best advice Scottish & Newcastle or Coors could put on labels of products such as Fosters, Newcastle Brown and… Wed, 01 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/12/01/your-very-good-health https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/12/01/your-very-good-health On a crisp autumn day, I found myself in deepest rural Essex tasting a Yorkshire beer produced in a brewery founded by a family from… Wed, 01 Dec 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/12/01/ridleys-brewery-leaping-the-north-south-divide https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/12/01/ridleys-brewery-leaping-the-north-south-divide ASDA, the giant national supermarket group, has unveiled a new beer range that will go some way towards mitigating the loss of the Safeway portfolio.… Mon, 01 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/11/01/beer-at-asda-assessing-the-range https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/11/01/beer-at-asda-assessing-the-range I break new ground this week by agreeing with Tim Martin, the boss of Wetherspoon. Speaking on Radio 4 recently, Tim said he was not… Mon, 01 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/11/01/weeding-out-the-smokers-thoughts-on-smoke-free-pubs https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/11/01/weeding-out-the-smokers-thoughts-on-smoke-free-pubs T&R Theakston, the famous brewery based in Masham, North Yorkshire, has re-launched its brands a year after the company was restored to independent ownership when… Mon, 01 Nov 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/11/01/still-peculier-the-relaunch-of-t-r-theakston https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/11/01/still-peculier-the-relaunch-of-t-r-theakston The Czech brewery Budweiser Budvar has launched a campaign to stop beer in the republic being turned into what it calls "Euro lager". Budvar has… Fri, 01 Oct 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/the-ten-commandments-of-budvar https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/the-ten-commandments-of-budvar A few weeks ago I was on a train to Weymouth. It's a trip I have made many times and I have always looked… Fri, 01 Oct 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/the-passing-of-eldridge-pope https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/the-passing-of-eldridge-pope I sometimes feel that the British brewing industry exists on two separate but occasionally colliding planets. On Planet Global, the giant brewers concentrate on big… Fri, 01 Oct 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/fuller-s-taking-pride-in-cask-beers https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/fuller-s-taking-pride-in-cask-beers "Welcome to Brigadoon," Stewart Main, the head brewer at Hook Norton said. As a Scot, he is well versed in the story of the mythical… Fri, 01 Oct 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/the-beers-of-brigadoon-hook-norton https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/the-beers-of-brigadoon-hook-norton The twisted priorities of the global brewers can be measured by a series of extremely expensive advertisements for the Interbrew brand Leffe in the quality… Fri, 01 Oct 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/think-global-ignore-local https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/10/01/think-global-ignore-local The postman rang the doorbell in September with two copies of my Complete Guide to World Beer (Carlton Books), which will be available in the… Fri, 01 Oct 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/10/01/from-russia-with-love https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/10/01/from-russia-with-love If you suffer from claustrophobia or vertigo, avoid the brewery trip at the Concertina Band Club in Mexborough. You go through the bar and store… Wed, 01 Sep 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/09/01/the-concertina-band-club https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/09/01/the-concertina-band-club Mayhem and murder at the top of the brewing industry continue apace. Hard on the heels of the closure of its Scottish and Newcastle plants… Wed, 01 Sep 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/09/01/decline-and-fall-boddingtons-amp-bass https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/09/01/decline-and-fall-boddingtons-amp-bass I tasted last month a malty/hoppy Pilsner, a roasted grain and chocolatey black lager, a crisp and fruity American-style pale ale, and an aromatic,… Wed, 01 Sep 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/09/01/chilling-out-at-zerodegrees https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/09/01/chilling-out-at-zerodegrees Moments after I'd announced that Greene King IPA had won gold in the bitter class in the Champion Beer of Britain competition at Olympia last… Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/the-greene-king-ipa-controversy https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/the-greene-king-ipa-controversy On the eve of the Great British Beer Festival, I attended a remarkable gathering of beer lovers in London. The meeting was dubbed "the Camra… Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/33-years-in-the-mash-tun https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/33-years-in-the-mash-tun Have you ordered the Rolls-Royce yet? I asked Dave Wickett. He laughed and said, "I'm too busy ordering casks!"The phone hasn't stopped ringing since Kelham… Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/kelham-island-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/kelham-island-brewery Stand by for my reports on a new homebrew system that promises to turn out 40 pints of excellent beer in just 14 days.… Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/the-home-brew-challenge https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/08/01/the-home-brew-challenge I was in the thick of the Great British Beer Festival action in London in the first week of August, including Chairing the judges panel… Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2004 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/08/01/great-british-beer-festival-2004 I'm pleased to report that I shall soon have a local pub to go to again. St Albans has a large number of pubs in… Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/08/01/hope-and-cask-beer-springs-eternal-in-st-albans https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/08/01/hope-and-cask-beer-springs-eternal-in-st-albans Stephen Crawley was sporting a beauty of a black eye. Is that what happens when Scottish & Newcastle moves in and starts running your brewery?Not… Thu, 01 Jul 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/07/01/long-live-caledonian-brewery https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/07/01/long-live-caledonian-brewery Ivor Dunkerton won't be chopping down the trees that supply him with apples and pears for his organic ciders and perries. He and his wife… Thu, 01 Jul 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/07/01/dunkerton-s-cider https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/07/01/dunkerton-s-cider One delightful way to sample the products of Dunkerton's Cider Mill is to have a meal in their Cider House restaurant, opened in 1994 in… Thu, 01 Jul 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2004/07/01/dunkerton-s-hereford https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2004/07/01/dunkerton-s-hereford Last month my wife and I took two Italian friends, after the obligatory trip round the abbey cathedral, for lunch in one of St Albans'… Thu, 01 Jul 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2004/07/01/ye-old-fighting-cocks-st-albans https://protzonbeer.co.uk/reviews/2004/07/01/ye-old-fighting-cocks-st-albans The Great British Beer Festival is the major UK celebration of real beer, with over 450 real ales from all over Great Britain on tasting,… Thu, 01 Jul 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/07/01/great-british-beer-festival-3rd-7th-august-2004 https://protzonbeer.co.uk/news/2004/07/01/great-british-beer-festival-3rd-7th-august-2004 Dortmund was once known as the "Burton of Germany". In the 19th and 20th centuries, the great steel-making and coal-mining city had more breweries than… Thu, 01 Apr 2004 00:00:00 BST https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/04/01/dortmund-the-burton-of-germany https://protzonbeer.co.uk/features/2004/04/01/dortmund-the-burton-of-germany