The annual release of long-awaited Thomas Hardy’s Ale has taken place, and this year it’s rather special as the beer celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Created in 1968 to commemorate the renowned English writer, Thomas Hardy’s Ale is a limited edition barley wine. Numbered and vintage dated, it is designed to be stored for years.
Starting out as an Eldridge Pope beer in Dorset, these days the brand has an Italian owner, Interbrau SpA, and is brewed at Meantime, in London.
“The bouquet has notes of both candied and alcohol-soaked fruit, dried figs, fresh tobacco and chocolate,” says the brewer of the 13% ABV beer.
“In the mouth, it is soft; a silky warmth accompanying memories of bitter orange marmalade, dried fruit and chestnut honey. The finale provides a refreshing, slightly sharp hint that adds harmony and balance.”
The beer is being sold online through Laitwaite’s Wine — click here to find out more
