Bigger paws on this version of Black Cat

Moorhouse’s premium Black Cat Reserve (4.6% ABV) is returning as the seasonal ale for late autumn in the Pendle Witches range.

Crafted by head brewer Dan Casaru, the brew was first rolled out two years ago to critical acclaim as a stronger cask ale which built upon the much celebrated regular Black Cat at 3.4% ABV — a CAMRA champion Beer of Britain brew. It joins Moorhouse’s offer of six core brands for November.

Moorhouse’s describes the beers as intensely dark, conjuring deep complex notes of roasted coffee, chocolate and mocha, balanced by hints of dark cherry and blackcurrant from the Polish Junga hop.

Moorhouse’s sales director, Mark Boardman, said: “Our regular Black Cat at the lower strength is a much-loved, dark and quaffable ale, so our head brewer created Black Cat Reserve to build on that appeal.

“We believe it is the ideal for that richer style of cask to savour in the darker days of autumn. And it offers a very distinctive brew for enterprising publicans to feature during a quieter trading time of year before the festive period.”