Yorkshire-based brewery T&R Theakston has partnered with Newcastle’s Blackrose Pubs as the two companies look to showcase the creativity of cask beer to a new generation.
The partnership will see Theakston Best Bitter available in all of the Blackrose’s 27 cask-serving pubs. Theakston’s most recent cask release is Summit, a 4.2% ABV pale ale which has been brewed to be served extra chilled through a dedicated handpump.
Alongside supplying Blackrose Pubs‘ venues, the brewery is also imparting its centuries of wisdom on all of the pub company’s staff. It is providing training at its brewery on conditioning, tapping casks, cellar maintenance and achieving the perfect pour.
Simon Theakston, joint managing director of T&R Theakston, said: “As a brewery, we’re passionate about our product and about championing the wider cask market, so it’s fantastic to be working with Blackrose Pubs, who appreciate the craftmanship that goes not just into creating the beer, but also ensuring it’s delivered in prime condition to customers.
“With almost two centuries of brewing expertise behind us, we know how important it is to pass on the skills of conditioning, tapping casks, and cellar maintenance to the next generation of pub leaders. We’re very excited to see where our journey together takes us.”
Fiona Smith, procurement manager at Blackrose Pubs, added: “As a business we believe a pub is so much more than just bricks and mortar, and want to create expert-led pubs that put customers at the heart.
“So, when we were looking for a cask partner, Theakston, with its ‘more than just a pint’ philosophy, was an obvious fit. As a brewery its beer is iconic and as a business it has a heritage and expertise which spans generations, so who better to share their knowledge with our teams!
“This is just the first step in this partnership, but the feedback from our customers about Theakston Best and our team’s understanding of cask beer has already been overwhelming. Hopefully, together with Theakston, we can reignite the UK’s love for cask beer by showcasing the fantastic products which are available.”
