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Some of the Yorkshire beers are alright but can they really stand up to a Scottish IPA or 80/- ?
In reply to SFM:
If you mean Deuchars then its not really an IPA, more a weak mildly hoppy pale ale.
If you mean Deuchars then its not really an IPA, more a weak mildly hoppy pale ale.
In reply to SFM:
Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
I thought this might be a thread wondering why it was so difficult to find a nice pint in Scotland (or Wales) compared to the current explosion in excellent new micro-breweries down south.
Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
I thought this might be a thread wondering why it was so difficult to find a nice pint in Scotland (or Wales) compared to the current explosion in excellent new micro-breweries down south.
In reply to Dave Garnett:
Try beers from the Black Isle brewery or similar. There are quite a few micro-breweries in Scotland now too.
> (In reply to SFM)
>
> Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
>
>
> Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
>
Try beers from the Black Isle brewery or similar. There are quite a few micro-breweries in Scotland now too.
In reply to MG:
Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
Isle of Skye, Orkney and Cairngorm breweries do some very good stuff. Seems to be a few decent breweries down in Devon too, I'm usually there for a few weeks in the summer and I'll usually seek out brews by Red Rock, Dartmoor and Teignworthy breweries. Bays is shite though!
Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
Isle of Skye, Orkney and Cairngorm breweries do some very good stuff. Seems to be a few decent breweries down in Devon too, I'm usually there for a few weeks in the summer and I'll usually seek out brews by Red Rock, Dartmoor and Teignworthy breweries. Bays is shite though!
In reply to Toby S:
Maybe none of the good stuff penetrates the bars in central Glasgow. It's like going back thirty years trying to buy a pint.
Maybe none of the good stuff penetrates the bars in central Glasgow. It's like going back thirty years trying to buy a pint.
In reply to Toby S:
Weird, they're one of my all time favourites. Which of their beers have you had.
But yeah, there seem to be more breweries than people in bits of the highlands and islands these days. The only things that's really missing is that while there are some cracking things being brewed, there aren't always pubs selling them...
> (In reply to MG)
>
> Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
>
> Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
Weird, they're one of my all time favourites. Which of their beers have you had.
But yeah, there seem to be more breweries than people in bits of the highlands and islands these days. The only things that's really missing is that while there are some cracking things being brewed, there aren't always pubs selling them...
In reply to SFM:
At the weekend I had very nice pints of dark munro and trade winds. Only an early start to go climbing stopped me from trying the other ones in the bar.
At the weekend I had very nice pints of dark munro and trade winds. Only an early start to go climbing stopped me from trying the other ones in the bar.
In reply to SFM:
http://www.harviestoun.com/
Bitter and twisted...... ...yum yum.
Also like some of the Alloa brewer beers:
http://www.williamsbrosbrew.com/
like Good times.
Looking forward to a few with the rugby this w/e. I'm not fussy where the beer comes from, Scotland or England, there's good in both!
http://www.harviestoun.com/
Bitter and twisted...... ...yum yum.
Also like some of the Alloa brewer beers:
http://www.williamsbrosbrew.com/
like Good times.
Looking forward to a few with the rugby this w/e. I'm not fussy where the beer comes from, Scotland or England, there's good in both!
In reply to Ramblin dave:
Red Kite, Black Isle Blonde and Heather Honey. They're all pretty awful, in my opinion of course!
Two decent pubs selling real ale in Inverness are The Clachnaharry and Castle Tavern, they usually have a decent stock of local ales on the go. But other than that you're right, seems to be really difficult finding pubs that sell anything other than fizzy yellow pish.
Red Kite, Black Isle Blonde and Heather Honey. They're all pretty awful, in my opinion of course!
Two decent pubs selling real ale in Inverness are The Clachnaharry and Castle Tavern, they usually have a decent stock of local ales on the go. But other than that you're right, seems to be really difficult finding pubs that sell anything other than fizzy yellow pish.
In reply to Ramblin dave:
there aren't always pubs selling them...
Or many pubs at all really, but a lot of bars. There is a difference.
there aren't always pubs selling them...
Or many pubs at all really, but a lot of bars. There is a difference.
In reply to MG:
When I was last in Orkney I nearly came home with a couple of bottles of this stuff: http://www.sinclairbreweries.co.uk/specialist_ales_dark_island_reserve.html I was on my home though and had run out of money
When I was last in Orkney I nearly came home with a couple of bottles of this stuff: http://www.sinclairbreweries.co.uk/specialist_ales_dark_island_reserve.html I was on my home though and had run out of money
In reply to Toby S:
Well, the blonde is a blonde and the heather honey is a honey beer so won't go down well if you don't like that sort of thing. The Red Kite is alright but not too inspired. The yellowhammer and the organic porter, though...
There are some quite good ones from around Glencoe, too. Can't remember the name of the brewery, though...
> (In reply to Ramblin dave)
>
> Red Kite, Black Isle Blonde and Heather Honey. They're all pretty awful, in my opinion of course!
>
> Two decent pubs selling real ale in Inverness are The Clachnaharry and Castle Tavern, they usually have a decent stock of local ales on the go. But other than that you're right, seems to be really difficult finding pubs that sell anything other than fizzy yellow pish.
>
> Red Kite, Black Isle Blonde and Heather Honey. They're all pretty awful, in my opinion of course!
>
> Two decent pubs selling real ale in Inverness are The Clachnaharry and Castle Tavern, they usually have a decent stock of local ales on the go. But other than that you're right, seems to be really difficult finding pubs that sell anything other than fizzy yellow pish.
Well, the blonde is a blonde and the heather honey is a honey beer so won't go down well if you don't like that sort of thing. The Red Kite is alright but not too inspired. The yellowhammer and the organic porter, though...
There are some quite good ones from around Glencoe, too. Can't remember the name of the brewery, though...
In reply to Toby S:
One of the things I enjoy most about living in England is that the beer is more to my taste than a lot of Scottish ales, that said, Deuchars IPA is almost always on tap in my local.
One of the things I enjoy most about living in England is that the beer is more to my taste than a lot of Scottish ales, that said, Deuchars IPA is almost always on tap in my local.
In reply to MG:
Yeah, I guess my experience is of bits of the Highlands where often all you get is some grim hotel bar that hasn't changed since the 70s, mainly caters to coach parties, and sells nothing but Tennants...
> (In reply to Ramblin dave)
> there aren't always pubs selling them...
>
> Or many pubs at all really, but a lot of bars. There is a difference.
> there aren't always pubs selling them...
>
> Or many pubs at all really, but a lot of bars. There is a difference.
Yeah, I guess my experience is of bits of the Highlands where often all you get is some grim hotel bar that hasn't changed since the 70s, mainly caters to coach parties, and sells nothing but Tennants...
In reply to Ramblin dave:
It's in Kinlochleven........next to the Ice Factor!!
> (In reply to Toby S).
>
> There are some quite good ones from around Glencoe, too. Can't remember the name of the brewery, though...
>
> There are some quite good ones from around Glencoe, too. Can't remember the name of the brewery, though...
It's in Kinlochleven........next to the Ice Factor!!
In reply to coinneach:
I thought it was closed too after the takeover but it looked open when I was last in Kinlochleven. Some of my favourites came from there.
I thought it was closed too after the takeover but it looked open when I was last in Kinlochleven. Some of my favourites came from there.
In reply to Dave Garnett:
The occasional one is ok. Not quite at good as english ones, but they'll do.
> (In reply to SFM)
>
> Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
>
> Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
The occasional one is ok. Not quite at good as english ones, but they'll do.
In reply to SFM:
Scottish beers have improved hugely over the past few years but don't match the better English ones
Scottish beers have improved hugely over the past few years but don't match the better English ones
In reply to SFM:
I'm sad to say that pubs in England are absolutely streets ahead of Scotland when it comes to getting local ales on the taps. Although even in the last year there has been a great improvement here as it has become more fashionable.
Some of the ales coming out of the microbrewerys in England at the moment are outstanding and I'm a big fan of any pint of bitter really. having said that I'll make special mention of Brewdogs Punk IPA and William Brothers Fraoch being up there as my two favourite beers at the moment.
For all that people slag off Wetherspoons you cant beat £1.90 a pint and a different selection of 5 or 6 real ales every Friday night.
I'm sad to say that pubs in England are absolutely streets ahead of Scotland when it comes to getting local ales on the taps. Although even in the last year there has been a great improvement here as it has become more fashionable.
Some of the ales coming out of the microbrewerys in England at the moment are outstanding and I'm a big fan of any pint of bitter really. having said that I'll make special mention of Brewdogs Punk IPA and William Brothers Fraoch being up there as my two favourite beers at the moment.
For all that people slag off Wetherspoons you cant beat £1.90 a pint and a different selection of 5 or 6 real ales every Friday night.
In reply to SFM: I thinks it's all good generally. Something I do find strange though, is the lack of a real ale market in Dumfrieshire. After visiting several hotels, none of them stock it because apparently no one wants it.
I've had some very nice English ales, but they don't compare to a top notch Scottish ale. I'm very lucky that I live in Edinburgh where we have an abundance of excellent pubs serving real ales, but it does surprise me how hard it can be to find a decent pint in other parts of Scotland. The Highlands are getting better, but I've not yet come accross a decent pint in Aberdeen.
In reply to SFM:
Whenever I'm up in Scotland visiting the family I find it hard to get hold of anything other than keg lager or guinness. Ironically the best Scottish ales I have had have been from real ale pubs closer to home, I had a good pint of Orkney stout in the Victoria (Beeston, Notts.) at the weekend. Scotland and England brew some excellent ales but England is better for "the real ale scene", my local in Derbyshire regularly has real ales from Scotland and Wales as well as local brews and other English ales. I do hope that Scotland comes to appreciate their inventive brewers because I'm always up for something new.
Whenever I'm up in Scotland visiting the family I find it hard to get hold of anything other than keg lager or guinness. Ironically the best Scottish ales I have had have been from real ale pubs closer to home, I had a good pint of Orkney stout in the Victoria (Beeston, Notts.) at the weekend. Scotland and England brew some excellent ales but England is better for "the real ale scene", my local in Derbyshire regularly has real ales from Scotland and Wales as well as local brews and other English ales. I do hope that Scotland comes to appreciate their inventive brewers because I'm always up for something new.
In reply to SFM:
Some excellent micro breweries in Socialist Republic of South Yorkshire - Kelham Island (Pale Rider being the obvious king of ales), Burton and Thornbridge for starters.
In fact Thornbridge seem to be taking over the world - have even taken over the Pomona in Sheffield - thats very confident I can tell you.
The only drwback with their pubs is the rack of six taps all with a Thornbridge ale on - they could at least pay a bit of respect to other beers and have the odd guest beer on - bit disrespectful I think.
Some excellent micro breweries in Socialist Republic of South Yorkshire - Kelham Island (Pale Rider being the obvious king of ales), Burton and Thornbridge for starters.
In fact Thornbridge seem to be taking over the world - have even taken over the Pomona in Sheffield - thats very confident I can tell you.
The only drwback with their pubs is the rack of six taps all with a Thornbridge ale on - they could at least pay a bit of respect to other beers and have the odd guest beer on - bit disrespectful I think.
In reply to Geoff F:
McAndrew's bar (or is it the Star and Garter again?) on the corner of Union St and Bon Accord St used to sell decent Real Ales. I should know, I used to work there and look after them! The annoying CAMRA people used to come in all the time so it must have been decent. But that was a looooooooong time ago!
McAndrew's bar (or is it the Star and Garter again?) on the corner of Union St and Bon Accord St used to sell decent Real Ales. I should know, I used to work there and look after them! The annoying CAMRA people used to come in all the time so it must have been decent. But that was a looooooooong time ago!
In reply to Clarence:
Clarence, where are your family?
I know that some of the more far flung parts only have a keg of ale on for the tourists with the locals hitting the cooking lager.
Clarence, where are your family?
I know that some of the more far flung parts only have a keg of ale on for the tourists with the locals hitting the cooking lager.
In reply to robw007:
Have to disagree about Pale Rider, Rob.
Bradfield Farmer's Blonde is a very superior and very pale contender.
Have to disagree about Pale Rider, Rob.
Bradfield Farmer's Blonde is a very superior and very pale contender.
In reply to SFM:
Both Scotland and England have some excellent beers.
And I would just like to take this moment to salute two favourite beers which are no longer brewed that I am aware of.
Gales "Prize Old Ale" the last of the corked beers till Fullers took it over
and Rodenbach Grand Cru a fantastic sour beer.
Both Scotland and England have some excellent beers.
And I would just like to take this moment to salute two favourite beers which are no longer brewed that I am aware of.
Gales "Prize Old Ale" the last of the corked beers till Fullers took it over
and Rodenbach Grand Cru a fantastic sour beer.
In reply to Duncan Bourne:
Agree. And I couldn't say which has the best because I haven't tried every beer from each country! Not for want of trying, mind...
I thought that was still going? Good job sidestepping the issue of Scotland vs England, though...
> (In reply to SFM)
> Both Scotland and England have some excellent beers.
> Both Scotland and England have some excellent beers.
Agree. And I couldn't say which has the best because I haven't tried every beer from each country! Not for want of trying, mind...
> and Rodenbach Grand Cru a fantastic sour beer.
I thought that was still going? Good job sidestepping the issue of Scotland vs England, though...
In reply to Toby S: McAndrew's bar (or is it the Star and Garter again?) Been closed for a while now.
Brew Dog is putting out some really good stuff now.
Brew Dog is putting out some really good stuff now.
In reply to Alan Taylor:
I think Brewdog do superb beers but admit it may not be to everyones tastes.
I think Brewdog do superb beers but admit it may not be to everyones tastes.
In reply to Anonymous:
Sadly no longer at Kinloch. Closed in 2010 I think.
> (In reply to Ramblin dave)
> [...]
>
> Atlas Brewery at Kinlochleven? They have some very fine beers indeed.
> [...]
>
> Atlas Brewery at Kinlochleven? They have some very fine beers indeed.
Sadly no longer at Kinloch. Closed in 2010 I think.
In reply to Alan Taylor:
Brewdog are sponsoring a small music festival up here in May. http://www.brewatthebog.com/ The lineup looks reasonably good too.
Brewdog are sponsoring a small music festival up here in May. http://www.brewatthebog.com/ The lineup looks reasonably good too.
In reply to SFM: isle of arran blonde ale is my favourite, but hard to get in bedfordshire
In reply to Mike_Watson_99:
Mainly just outside Kirkcaldy but with the odd (and I mean odd) cousin in Caithness. They are all keg lager drinkers, enough so that whenever I get the usual insults I can return fire by comparing them to 8 Ace...
> (In reply to Clarence)
> Clarence, where are your family?
> Clarence, where are your family?
Mainly just outside Kirkcaldy but with the odd (and I mean odd) cousin in Caithness. They are all keg lager drinkers, enough so that whenever I get the usual insults I can return fire by comparing them to 8 Ace...
In reply to SFM: A nice wee Innis & Gunn followed by an Orkney Dark Island then a McEwans No1 Champion Ale. Untouchable trio.
Best English beers I've ever had would be Beamish Red and the Lurcher from the Three Stags Head
Best English beers I've ever had would be Beamish Red and the Lurcher from the Three Stags Head
In reply to Clarence:
I've got some girlfriends family in Fife. I know there are good beers in Scotland but none are served in the pubs round their way.
> (In reply to Mike_Watson_99)
> [...]
>
> Mainly just outside Kirkcaldy but with the odd (and I mean odd) cousin in Caithness.
> [...]
>
> Mainly just outside Kirkcaldy but with the odd (and I mean odd) cousin in Caithness.
I've got some girlfriends family in Fife. I know there are good beers in Scotland but none are served in the pubs round their way.
In reply to 220bpm: Sir, you re a man of fine taste.
I'm glad someone mentioned Innis & Gunn, that's probably my pick of the bunch from the many fine beers I had absolutely not expected to find when I moved to Scotland.
And the Three Stags Heads is one of my favourite pubs. I'm just sad that Edinburgh's own Sheep Heid no longer allows dogs, as I enjoy walking over there and pretending I'm in the countryside.
for english beer, I'm going to recommend a cornish brewery called Skinners.
I'm glad someone mentioned Innis & Gunn, that's probably my pick of the bunch from the many fine beers I had absolutely not expected to find when I moved to Scotland.
And the Three Stags Heads is one of my favourite pubs. I'm just sad that Edinburgh's own Sheep Heid no longer allows dogs, as I enjoy walking over there and pretending I'm in the countryside.
for english beer, I'm going to recommend a cornish brewery called Skinners.
In reply to SFM:
It's been about 20 years since you had to either go to Edinburgh, the Clachaig or the Lampie to get a decent pint in Scotland. Lots of micro breweries now and of course the bigger ones have followed suit too, much thanks to CAMRA and also to the Caledonian brewery (headed by Russell Sharp, a keen and handy climber back in the day) which really expanded the range and the distribution in the early '90s.
It may be sacrilege but I'm not that much of a fan of Deuchars, I much prefer Caley 80. Caley Golden Promise was my favourite but I haven't seen that for many years. Sheepshagger is good too, there are quite a few that can stand up to benchmarks such as Landlord, Jennings etc. However the tradition of 'real ale' as we know it is firmly English, so hats off for the beer.
It's been about 20 years since you had to either go to Edinburgh, the Clachaig or the Lampie to get a decent pint in Scotland. Lots of micro breweries now and of course the bigger ones have followed suit too, much thanks to CAMRA and also to the Caledonian brewery (headed by Russell Sharp, a keen and handy climber back in the day) which really expanded the range and the distribution in the early '90s.
It may be sacrilege but I'm not that much of a fan of Deuchars, I much prefer Caley 80. Caley Golden Promise was my favourite but I haven't seen that for many years. Sheepshagger is good too, there are quite a few that can stand up to benchmarks such as Landlord, Jennings etc. However the tradition of 'real ale' as we know it is firmly English, so hats off for the beer.
In reply to SFM:
Re the Kinlochleven Brewery:
It was under operation until last year as Atlas. They are owned by the same people as Orkney and have now relocated their whole operation to there as the bigger premises could accommodate more brewing.
It has recently re-opened as Leven Ales, with Harry who used to work for Atlas brewing the beer. It's only a small operation still at the moment, but you will find them on sale in some of the local pubs - including the Bothan Bar at the Ice Factor and also the Four Seasons at Onich. Not sure where else, but worth looking out for - they're good! Don't think they are doing bottled versions as yet.
Regarding Scottish beer in general... I didn't really drink ale until I came up here, but have done when I've been south of the border since. I think if you expect them to taste like a bitter then you're going to be disappointed. Scottish beers generally contain more malt and less hops as hops were traditionally expensive to get hold of I believe. So they are (for the most part) sweeter in taste. There are some great ones and some that are really pish. My personal favourites...
Fraoch is good if you like light & fruity. Alba is a really sweet, thick (and strong!) pine ale. Tradewinds is my favourite post summer hill day pint. Wildcat or Stag are good for darker pints. An Teallach ales are nice - well worth trying if you can find them, but run out of Davie's shed so not always that easy to come by! Seaforth is light and refreshing. Young Pretender is another good light ale. Black Gold is great for a darker choice, or Celtic Black.
I could go on. I like ale...
Re the Kinlochleven Brewery:
It was under operation until last year as Atlas. They are owned by the same people as Orkney and have now relocated their whole operation to there as the bigger premises could accommodate more brewing.
It has recently re-opened as Leven Ales, with Harry who used to work for Atlas brewing the beer. It's only a small operation still at the moment, but you will find them on sale in some of the local pubs - including the Bothan Bar at the Ice Factor and also the Four Seasons at Onich. Not sure where else, but worth looking out for - they're good! Don't think they are doing bottled versions as yet.
Regarding Scottish beer in general... I didn't really drink ale until I came up here, but have done when I've been south of the border since. I think if you expect them to taste like a bitter then you're going to be disappointed. Scottish beers generally contain more malt and less hops as hops were traditionally expensive to get hold of I believe. So they are (for the most part) sweeter in taste. There are some great ones and some that are really pish. My personal favourites...
Fraoch is good if you like light & fruity. Alba is a really sweet, thick (and strong!) pine ale. Tradewinds is my favourite post summer hill day pint. Wildcat or Stag are good for darker pints. An Teallach ales are nice - well worth trying if you can find them, but run out of Davie's shed so not always that easy to come by! Seaforth is light and refreshing. Young Pretender is another good light ale. Black Gold is great for a darker choice, or Celtic Black.
I could go on. I like ale...
In reply to Big Steve:
There you go, I knew I had actually drunk one decent Scottish beer and that was it.
Admittedly, I currently like my bitter pale, hoppy and sharp rather than the dark malty stuff that seems more popular north of the border but, honestly, I'm happy to try anything that doesn't remind me of Watneys Red Barrel.
I'm probably being picky. I'm spoilt for choice with Whim Ales, the Wincle brewery and Storm in Macclesfield all local.
> (In reply to SFM) isle of arran blonde ale is my favourite, but hard to get in bedfordshire
There you go, I knew I had actually drunk one decent Scottish beer and that was it.
Admittedly, I currently like my bitter pale, hoppy and sharp rather than the dark malty stuff that seems more popular north of the border but, honestly, I'm happy to try anything that doesn't remind me of Watneys Red Barrel.
I'm probably being picky. I'm spoilt for choice with Whim Ales, the Wincle brewery and Storm in Macclesfield all local.
In reply to SFM:
Tim Taylors Landlord - the only reason God doesn't smite Keithley from the earth. Heavenly. Leeds Bitter & Pale are both superb. Beer in scotland is really rather good although I'm not sure why they insist on serving it at lager temperatures?
D
Tim Taylors Landlord - the only reason God doesn't smite Keithley from the earth. Heavenly. Leeds Bitter & Pale are both superb. Beer in scotland is really rather good although I'm not sure why they insist on serving it at lager temperatures?
D
In reply to SFM: mmmm my favourite subject. I'm fortunate to have one of Scotland's best CAMRA pubs in my village so get to try a lot of great beers though it is difficult getting the best beyond Edinburgh.
Scotland is getting better but still lacking in quantity but plenty good uns. 'Bitter & Twisted' and 'Tradewinds' still superb but best of late was 'River Catcher' whilst 'Black Sheep' awesome but the bestest best beer ever ever was
http://www.bluemonkeybrewery.com/our-beers/99-red-baboons
Find it, drink it and do not move from the seat until the keg is empty.
Scotland is getting better but still lacking in quantity but plenty good uns. 'Bitter & Twisted' and 'Tradewinds' still superb but best of late was 'River Catcher' whilst 'Black Sheep' awesome but the bestest best beer ever ever was
http://www.bluemonkeybrewery.com/our-beers/99-red-baboons
Find it, drink it and do not move from the seat until the keg is empty.
In reply to SFM: Innis and Gunn is fan blumn tastic! Brewed in whiskey casks....god bless scotland!
In reply to jules699:
Hmmm. I really wanted to like this, having read the story in some in-flight magazine, but I just didn't. I do like whiskey and beer, but only in separate glasses.
Hmmm. I really wanted to like this, having read the story in some in-flight magazine, but I just didn't. I do like whiskey and beer, but only in separate glasses.
In reply to SFM:
A third vote for Tradewinds. Scottish beer has come on leaps and bounds in the last ten years, some really good stuff around.
I have a theory though that the water in the South of England is perfect for bitter. It seems to compliment the hops perfectly and makes the beer unique. I guess the Home Counties and the South Downs are to beer as what the Rhone is to wine.
A third vote for Tradewinds. Scottish beer has come on leaps and bounds in the last ten years, some really good stuff around.
I have a theory though that the water in the South of England is perfect for bitter. It seems to compliment the hops perfectly and makes the beer unique. I guess the Home Counties and the South Downs are to beer as what the Rhone is to wine.
In reply to yer maw:
Good choice, I was in Blue Monkey's Pub (top of Alfreton Road in Nottingham, can't miss it - it's bright yellow) the other day and 99RB and Guerilla were the top brews of the crawl. Not convinced by BG Sips though...
> http://www.bluemonkeybrewery.com/our-beers/99-red-baboons
>
> Find it, drink it and do not move from the seat until the keg is empty.
>
> Find it, drink it and do not move from the seat until the keg is empty.
Good choice, I was in Blue Monkey's Pub (top of Alfreton Road in Nottingham, can't miss it - it's bright yellow) the other day and 99RB and Guerilla were the top brews of the crawl. Not convinced by BG Sips though...
In reply to SFM:
Fyne Ales are Scottish and absolutely outstanding.
Fyne Ales are Scottish and absolutely outstanding.
In reply to SFM:
I think some of our English cousins suffer from the fact they probably drink in shitty wee out of the way pubs where your choice is limited to industrial lager or export when up here. Back in the cities and larger towns then the choice of good ales is getting to be incredible. I'll be out in Edinburgh on Saturday and I'm pretty well guaranteed to get decent ales in every pub I'll be in.
I think some of our English cousins suffer from the fact they probably drink in shitty wee out of the way pubs where your choice is limited to industrial lager or export when up here. Back in the cities and larger towns then the choice of good ales is getting to be incredible. I'll be out in Edinburgh on Saturday and I'm pretty well guaranteed to get decent ales in every pub I'll be in.
In reply to coinneach:
Nooooo! This is terrible news
They made a beer called Latitude which is one of the nicest pints I've ever drunk, and I say that as one who lives in Sheffield and has a choice of some of the best real ale pubs you could wish for.
I have the most crystal clear memory of finishing the West Highland Way and sitting down in the Grog and Gruel in Fort William with a delicious burger and some curly fries and a pint of Latitude thinking life does not get better than this! Maybe it was the moment as much as the beer, I don't know. Ahhh! I can almost taste it now.
> (In reply to coinneach)
>
> Or was!!!!!
>
> http://www.thedrinkingmansguidetoscotland.com/atlas-brewery.html
>
> Or was!!!!!
>
> http://www.thedrinkingmansguidetoscotland.com/atlas-brewery.html
Nooooo! This is terrible news
They made a beer called Latitude which is one of the nicest pints I've ever drunk, and I say that as one who lives in Sheffield and has a choice of some of the best real ale pubs you could wish for.
I have the most crystal clear memory of finishing the West Highland Way and sitting down in the Grog and Gruel in Fort William with a delicious burger and some curly fries and a pint of Latitude thinking life does not get better than this! Maybe it was the moment as much as the beer, I don't know. Ahhh! I can almost taste it now.
In reply to Removed User:
Probably, in a climbing context, but I visit Glasgow on business so any suggestions for half-decent city centre pubs (say within staggering distance of the Radisson) would be of interest.
> (In reply to Removed UserSFM)
>
> I think some of our English cousins suffer from the fact they probably drink in shitty wee out of the way pubs
>
> I think some of our English cousins suffer from the fact they probably drink in shitty wee out of the way pubs
Probably, in a climbing context, but I visit Glasgow on business so any suggestions for half-decent city centre pubs (say within staggering distance of the Radisson) would be of interest.
In reply to SFM:
Glad it's not just me that likes Innis and Gun (sp), i had a couple of bottles for the first time at Christmas and they were fantastic. i have no idea about the brewery, or other beardy CAMRA info, but it tastes great (just wish it wasn't so pricey in Tesco).
Glad it's not just me that likes Innis and Gun (sp), i had a couple of bottles for the first time at Christmas and they were fantastic. i have no idea about the brewery, or other beardy CAMRA info, but it tastes great (just wish it wasn't so pricey in Tesco).
In reply to Dave Garnett:
Blackfriars in Merchant City. CAMRA award winning pub.
> Probably, in a climbing context, but I visit Glasgow on business so any suggestions for half-decent city centre pubs (say within staggering distance of the Radisson) would be of interest.
Blackfriars in Merchant City. CAMRA award winning pub.
In reply to 220bpm:
I second the McEwans Champion, it is no 1 on my list.
> McEwans No1 Champion Ale
I second the McEwans Champion, it is no 1 on my list.
In reply to Dom Whillans:
> (In reply to SFM)
> Glad it's not just me that likes Innis and Gun (sp), i had a couple of bottles for the first time at Christmas and they were fantastic. i have no idea about the brewery, or other beardy CAMRA info, but it tastes great (just wish it wasn't so pricey in Tesco).
I doubt camra would approve given its not served bottle or cask conditioned(on the rare occasion I've seen it on draught) etc etc... But who cares if it tastes good.> Glad it's not just me that likes Innis and Gun (sp), i had a couple of bottles for the first time at Christmas and they were fantastic. i have no idea about the brewery, or other beardy CAMRA info, but it tastes great (just wish it wasn't so pricey in Tesco).
In reply to jonnie3430:
http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/342/12260
> (In reply to 220bpm)
> [...]
>
> I second the McEwans Champion, it is no 1 on my list.
I quite enjoy it as well. Don't know if you've seen this site?> [...]
>
> I second the McEwans Champion, it is no 1 on my list.
http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/342/12260
In reply to SFM: Deuchars is the most generic, boring pale ale ever to have passed my lips. and it's bloody everywhere!!
My favourites are Cairngorm Trade Winds, Harviestoun Schiehallion, An Teallach (all his beers are good).
Most beers in Scotland, England and Wales are a tasty treat it's 100% dependant on the travelling time and conditions from brewery to pub, then how the pub treats the product before putting on dispense, a great cask of a great ale can be spoiled by a poor cellarman not paying attention to his beer.
Also so many wee pubs in the highlands sell ale thats been on for days too long and is way past it's best, purely because they don't have the trade to shift the cask in the recommended maximum of 3 days. I always try before I buy in these places, and more often and not avoid ale in the wee pubs during the winter months.
My favourites are Cairngorm Trade Winds, Harviestoun Schiehallion, An Teallach (all his beers are good).
Most beers in Scotland, England and Wales are a tasty treat it's 100% dependant on the travelling time and conditions from brewery to pub, then how the pub treats the product before putting on dispense, a great cask of a great ale can be spoiled by a poor cellarman not paying attention to his beer.
Also so many wee pubs in the highlands sell ale thats been on for days too long and is way past it's best, purely because they don't have the trade to shift the cask in the recommended maximum of 3 days. I always try before I buy in these places, and more often and not avoid ale in the wee pubs during the winter months.
In reply to Toby S:
Snap!.. My Bro in law (in conon bridge) gives me mixed set of black isle bottles for Christmas every year and I really find it hard to tell between each variety (apart from the porter - whatever they call it) and none of them appeal to my palate. Maybe it's a bottled beer thing cos i don't really like any whether scottish or English. All the really good beers I've tasted in the last few years have been in the lakes from local breweries.
> (In reply to MG)
>
> Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
>>
> Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
Snap!.. My Bro in law (in conon bridge) gives me mixed set of black isle bottles for Christmas every year and I really find it hard to tell between each variety (apart from the porter - whatever they call it) and none of them appeal to my palate. Maybe it's a bottled beer thing cos i don't really like any whether scottish or English. All the really good beers I've tasted in the last few years have been in the lakes from local breweries.
In reply to Tom Valentine:
Well this could spill into a 'best beer in the world' thread which I try to steer clear of.
I think you're view is also shaped by experience - so a pint of Pale Rider in the Fat Cat after a Foundry session - just awaiting the quiz - makes the winter almost bearable.
In fact the only other time I stated a beer was the best etc was when The Chequers used to sell hand pulled Wards. Tasted different (better!) to any other pint of Wards I could find.
Enjoying a pint sat out on the bench watching the sun go down with your mates after a few excellent routes on Froggat or Stoney was just ace.
Well this could spill into a 'best beer in the world' thread which I try to steer clear of.
I think you're view is also shaped by experience - so a pint of Pale Rider in the Fat Cat after a Foundry session - just awaiting the quiz - makes the winter almost bearable.
In fact the only other time I stated a beer was the best etc was when The Chequers used to sell hand pulled Wards. Tasted different (better!) to any other pint of Wards I could find.
Enjoying a pint sat out on the bench watching the sun go down with your mates after a few excellent routes on Froggat or Stoney was just ace.
In reply to SFM: I like the Black Isle stuff (particuarly the Heather Honey), but I have precisely your problem with anything that comes from the Cairngorm brewery. It's nice enough, but all of their beers taste the same to me.
On the whole I used to think that Scottish beer was better than the wussy southern stuff, but I've spent the last few months working down south and realised that I was completely wrong.
On the whole I used to think that Scottish beer was better than the wussy southern stuff, but I've spent the last few months working down south and realised that I was completely wrong.
In reply to nickyrannoch:
The William Bros Roisin beer is worth trying
http://www.folkale.com/blogobeer-archive/tasting-notes-roisin-tayberry-beer...
> (In reply to SFM)
>
having said that I'll make special mention of Brewdogs Punk IPA and William Brothers Fraoch being up there as my two favourite beers at the moment.>
>
The William Bros Roisin beer is worth trying
http://www.folkale.com/blogobeer-archive/tasting-notes-roisin-tayberry-beer...
In reply to Alyson: Aye Latitude is lovely jubly. The Cycle Tavern In Auchtermuchty also do McEwans 80 which you don't see so much now, but is this perhaps McEwans Champion? Younger's No.3, remember that? Tasty
Also remember going into a pub in Otley and asking the barman what he recommended. He pointed out what the women and Poofs (his words) drank and the rest drank Black Sheep. Great pint and I daren't drink owt else that night! Surprised no-one's mentioned it.
Also remember going into a pub in Otley and asking the barman what he recommended. He pointed out what the women and Poofs (his words) drank and the rest drank Black Sheep. Great pint and I daren't drink owt else that night! Surprised no-one's mentioned it.
In reply to SFM:
Was there ever a 90/- (90 shilling)? My mate Pete drank something in Fort William one night in the mid-nineties that caused him to piss the bed in the B&B.
Owner said it was not an uncommon occurrence, £5 cleaning charge though.
Was there ever a 90/- (90 shilling)? My mate Pete drank something in Fort William one night in the mid-nineties that caused him to piss the bed in the B&B.
Owner said it was not an uncommon occurrence, £5 cleaning charge though.
In reply to sbc_10:
That is quite a reasonable charge. I am sure I have drunk a pint of 90 once if I remember correctly... Although my years in FW are a bit of a blur between 70 and 80.
That is quite a reasonable charge. I am sure I have drunk a pint of 90 once if I remember correctly... Although my years in FW are a bit of a blur between 70 and 80.
In reply to sbc_10: I recall that in early 90's....I'm sure they sold it in the Crofter and the Volunteer..
In reply to sbc_10:
> (In reply to SFM)
>
> Was there ever a 90/- (90 shilling)?
Yes but not too common nowadays. Caledonian used to do a good one. >
> Was there ever a 90/- (90 shilling)?
In reply to sbc_10: It went up to 140/ at one point: http://barclayperkins.blogspot.com/2012/01/england-vs-scotland-part-2d-1840...
Scottish beer has come on greatly in recent years and there really are some excellent beers from Scotland. As there are from England.
Scottish beer has come on greatly in recent years and there really are some excellent beers from Scotland. As there are from England.
In reply to Toby S:
otter is the king of Devon Beers!
> (In reply to MG)
>
> Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
>
> Isle of Skye, Orkney and Cairngorm breweries do some very good stuff. Seems to be a few decent breweries down in Devon too, I'm usually there for a few weeks in the summer and I'll usually seek out brews by Red Rock, Dartmoor and Teignworthy breweries. Bays is shite though!
>
> Actually Black Isle Brewery is one that I wouldn't recommend. Vile. Sorry!
>
> Isle of Skye, Orkney and Cairngorm breweries do some very good stuff. Seems to be a few decent breweries down in Devon too, I'm usually there for a few weeks in the summer and I'll usually seek out brews by Red Rock, Dartmoor and Teignworthy breweries. Bays is shite though!
otter is the king of Devon Beers!
If you want something akin to a real C19 IPA then Jaipur is a good one - around 7% like it should be.
Too many decent micro breweries to list really. Pinnacle is a crackin brew, as is Ilkley Brewery's Mary Jane and Copper Dragon's Golden Pippin.
White Shield is cracking beer, even if it is Coors.
Nice to see porters becoming more and more popular - the Saltaire porter is cracking. I believe Lummox runs on the stuff......
In reply to SFM:
Double Diamond, Titbread W&nkard, Party 7's.
Boy have things improved since the dark days of the '70's. One of the great things of british life.
Double Diamond, Titbread W&nkard, Party 7's.
Boy have things improved since the dark days of the '70's. One of the great things of british life.
In reply to sbc_10:
I'm sure the Trades House or the Pillars in Dundee used to do 60/ - 90 /.
Had 90 a couple of times, never tried 60 due to how rank rotten i found 70 at the time but perhaps my tatsebuds will have changed since those early drinking days.
I'm getting nostalgic for a black and tan now.
I'm sure the Trades House or the Pillars in Dundee used to do 60/ - 90 /.
Had 90 a couple of times, never tried 60 due to how rank rotten i found 70 at the time but perhaps my tatsebuds will have changed since those early drinking days.
I'm getting nostalgic for a black and tan now.
In reply to SFM:
I thoguht there were only 2 beers in Scotland.
Red tin (McEwans export) and yellow in (tennants lager).
or that's how it was in my family for years
I thoguht there were only 2 beers in Scotland.
Red tin (McEwans export) and yellow in (tennants lager).
or that's how it was in my family for years
In reply to John Rushby:
Pictish brewery and Phoenix brewery are both consistently good, as is Marble beers. Alchemist's Ale by Pictish has never been bettered for me.
Pictish brewery and Phoenix brewery are both consistently good, as is Marble beers. Alchemist's Ale by Pictish has never been bettered for me.
In reply to Max factor:
Yellow tins? You mean yours were not white with pretty ladies?
> I thoguht there were only 2 beers in Scotland.
> Red tin (McEwans export) and yellow in (tennants lager).
>
> or that's how it was in my family for years
> Red tin (McEwans export) and yellow in (tennants lager).
>
> or that's how it was in my family for years
Yellow tins? You mean yours were not white with pretty ladies?
In reply to MonkeyPuzzle:
I had some Pictish (can't recall which) at the Aberdeen Beer Festival over the summer - well impressed.
Not tried Marble - will hunt some down.
cheers
I had some Pictish (can't recall which) at the Aberdeen Beer Festival over the summer - well impressed.
Not tried Marble - will hunt some down.
cheers
In reply to John Rushby:
Hooray! Rodenbach Grand Cru is still around. Had some last night whoo hoo!
Hooray! Rodenbach Grand Cru is still around. Had some last night whoo hoo!
In reply to SFM:
being a southerner, i much prefer Courage's Directors or Gales HSB (a good treakely winter bitter), Fullers ESB but Harvey's is yuk. Foreever miss Youngs Special and King and Barnes Festive. Shepherd Neame Spitfire (kent) is pretty good too.
being a southerner, i much prefer Courage's Directors or Gales HSB (a good treakely winter bitter), Fullers ESB but Harvey's is yuk. Foreever miss Youngs Special and King and Barnes Festive. Shepherd Neame Spitfire (kent) is pretty good too.
In reply to Milesy:
there were when I was about 10! found some nostalgia for you:
http://www.cannyscot.com/11th%20Lovelies.htm
there were when I was about 10! found some nostalgia for you:
http://www.cannyscot.com/11th%20Lovelies.htm
In reply to Dave Garnett:
TBF, when I climbed in Scotland I had a partner who would only ever drink real ale and always insisted on a pint after a day out. I don't think we ever failed to find a pub that served real ale, even in the far north (the Ben Loyal hotel springs to mind) and most of it was pretty good.
Some of the more remote hostelrys found it hard to keep a barrel as the locals would only drink gassy bog standard 60, 70 or 80/d or lager but most of the key climbing areas had pubs that would.
Clachnaharry was one of my favourites and even had a barrel on "straight from the wood" but Ft. William, Glen Coe, Aviemore, Kingussie etc. all had pubs with a decent pint, you just had to know where to look.
Couldn't get one in Wick or Thurso mind.
> (In reply to SFM)
>
> Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
>
> I thought this might be a thread wondering why it was so difficult to find a nice pint in Scotland (or Wales) compared to the current explosion in excellent new micro-breweries down south.
>
> Things must have changed since I was last north of the border (which would be about 6 months). Do they now have drinkable beer in Scotland?
>
> I thought this might be a thread wondering why it was so difficult to find a nice pint in Scotland (or Wales) compared to the current explosion in excellent new micro-breweries down south.
TBF, when I climbed in Scotland I had a partner who would only ever drink real ale and always insisted on a pint after a day out. I don't think we ever failed to find a pub that served real ale, even in the far north (the Ben Loyal hotel springs to mind) and most of it was pretty good.
Some of the more remote hostelrys found it hard to keep a barrel as the locals would only drink gassy bog standard 60, 70 or 80/d or lager but most of the key climbing areas had pubs that would.
Clachnaharry was one of my favourites and even had a barrel on "straight from the wood" but Ft. William, Glen Coe, Aviemore, Kingussie etc. all had pubs with a decent pint, you just had to know where to look.
Couldn't get one in Wick or Thurso mind.
In reply to SFM:
The best beer lies in the eyes (or mouth) of the beerholder; we all have different tastes. I prefer malty beers, and don't like strongly hopped beers. That's my preference, but I wouldn't say that either type is 'best'.
My limited experience of mainstream 70/- and 80/- beers is that they're more to my taste, being sweeter, maltier, and not strongly hopped.
Fortunately, this is my 'local':
http://nagsheadreading.com/home.php
The best beer lies in the eyes (or mouth) of the beerholder; we all have different tastes. I prefer malty beers, and don't like strongly hopped beers. That's my preference, but I wouldn't say that either type is 'best'.
My limited experience of mainstream 70/- and 80/- beers is that they're more to my taste, being sweeter, maltier, and not strongly hopped.
Fortunately, this is my 'local':
http://nagsheadreading.com/home.php
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