Shepherd Neame has launched Citra Smack, a straw-coloured 3.8% ABV session IPA, as the fifth beer in its 2023 Cask Club series.
It combines three hops — Cascade, Amarillo, and Citra — to offer a fruity aroma with lively citrus notes. A combination of pale ale and crystal malts, alongside a small amount of wheat and oats, creates a well-rounded, smooth beer, with distinctive fruit flavours and a refreshing smack of citrus.
Citra Smack’s name and pumpclip design draw inspiration from Iron Wharf boatyard overlooking the creek in Faversham. This is the medieval market town where Shepherd Neame has been based for more than 400 years. The pumpclip depicts a classic smack, a traditional fishing boat used to harvest oysters in nearby Whitstable.
“While the main hop is the Citra variety, we used a smaller selection of other aroma hops to create a really refreshing and well balanced pint,” said head brewer Mike Unsworth.
“Our team have had a great time bringing Citra Smack to life, and we are very happy with the finished result. With its juicy citrus flavours and aroma we think it provides a real drop of sunshine in a glass, perfect for summer.”
Shepherd Neame’s Cask Club was launched in 2019, offering a range of limited edition innovative cask beers incorporating modern styles and flavours, while also celebrating some seasonal classics.
Drinkers are able to get involved with Cask Club by picking up a passport at participating pubs, collecting a bespoke crook stamp for each new Cask Club ale tried. Those who complete the passport will be eligible for an exclusive Cask Club t-shirt, and will be entered into a prize draw for a weekend getaway.
Future ales in the Cask Club programme over the next few months include Hop Pocket (4.5% ABV), Cobnut (3.8% ABV), and Late Red (4.5% ABV).
