Andys Beer Reviews

  Ever wondered why Yorkshire Bitter stands out in the crowded world of beers and why many beer drinkers just love it? It's not just another pint at the pub. It’s got a character all its own, and as I grew up on these beers, I'm going to spend the next couple of minutes showing you why. What Is Yorkshire Bitter? Yorkshire Bitter is a traditional British beer. Brewed in Yorkshire Known for its balanced flavours, it's neither too sweet nor is it too bitter. It's generally has a lower than average ABV, making it a very sessionable pint. Appearance: What Should You Expect? It has a deep amber to copper colour Usuall crystal clear in appearance The head is usually creamy and thick, and it will stay to the very last drop Aroma: What's That Smell? Yorkshire Bitter has a distinct aroma that sets it apart Usually you'll get a whiff of freshly baked bread or sometimes even biscuits Sometimes a fain aroma of nuts There’s a mild hop aroma, often earthy or floral Some versio...

On a recent trip to Eastbourne, I had the great pleasure of bumping into this 'style' with the Monolith Vatted Black Beer from Burning Sky Brewery. Wow, what a beer, I scored it 10/10 . I've never come across this beer style before, so I was interested in learning a little more about it. What is Vatted Black Beer? Vatted black beer is a dark ale aged in wooden vats, Burning Sky Monolith was aged in Chianti barrels for three years. Like all similar beers, this leaved a rich, complex flavour that’s really is amazing and hard to beat. Sometimes these beers might have wild yeasts introduced or other micro-flora. The efforts that brewers go throught to produce these beers cannot be over-exaggerated, they are time consuming to produce and there are financial risks of cellaring beers, but the results can be stunning.  A VERY Brief History Lesson This beer style dates back to the 18th century. Back then, brewers used wooden vats to store their beer. Over time, they noti...

Welcome to what could be a controversial blog post, and let me get straight to the point ..  I prefer Knowle Spring over Landlord; I know, probably not something you hear often, but let me explain. I think that Timothy Taylor's Knowle Spring, has a fairly unique character and delightful flavours. As we explore this blonde beer, we'll also draw some comparisons with its beter known sibling, Landlord, to help you understand why I think Knowle Spring is probably the best beer in the Timothy Taylor family (but only just!).   Introducing Knowle Spring to You All I first had this wonder beer about five years ago in a country pub in Yorkshire (the name escapes me), but I instantly fell for this beer.  This 4.2% ABV Knowle Spring is a relatively recent addition to Timothy Taylor's lineup, having been introduced in 2017. This Golden Ale was created to offer a lighter, more refreshing option compared to some of the brewery's other offerings. The name actually comes from the sprin...

As a craft beer enthusiasts I'm always looking to see what might be coming for me next, what new or different beer styles or twist to an existing style will entice me! Many of us have long celebrated the West Coast IPA for its bold, hop-forward character and crisp, clean finish. It is now an iconic style, pioneered by breweries in California and the Pacific Northwest, but this style has undergone a remarkable and interesting transformation in recent years. A new wave of West Coast IPAs is emerging, featuring newer hop varieties and a fruitier profile that offers a refreshing twist on a beloved classic. Side Note: I just want to put it here that while we all refer to 'styles' there has always been, and always will be style creep, so I know that these variations to the Tradtional West Coast IPA style are not brand new, but they are being brewed more often AND becoming more widely accepted. A VERY Brief History of the West Coast IPA Just as a reminder, the West Coast IPA firs...

When I started out on my beer review journey about three years ago now, I hated sour beers. That fizzy, almost vinegar taste really turned my stomarch, but as time marched on, I started to try them and now, I absolutely love the style, in all its different and magnificent guises. As a craft beer enthusiasts I'm always on the lookout for something unique, different, or new, and I've found that sour beer has emerged as one of the most intriguing drinking options in recent years. With its complex flavours and refreshing tartness, sour beer offers a delightful departure from the more familiar profiles of traditional ales and lagers.  But what exactly makes a sour beer so special? Let’s take a look at the world of this tangy elixir and explore its origins, brewing process, and diverse flavour profiles.   A REALLY Brief History of Sour Beer Sour beer is making a bit of a surgence at the monent, but contary to what it might look like, sour beer is not a new invention. In fact, it dat...

Nestled in the picturesque town of Westerham, Kent, Westerham Brewery stands as a testament to the rich brewing heritage of the region. Since it’s opening in 2004, the brewery has quickly become a cornerstone of the local community, offering a range of meticulously crafted beers that pay homage to traditional brewing techniques while embracing innovative approaches. In fact today, Westerham Brewery is a destination for great beer and great food. A Legacy of Quality and Tradition Westerham Brewery was founded in 2004 by Robert Wicks, a passionate brewer with a vision to revive and celebrate the classic English brewing methods. Robert has revived many of the much-loved flavours of the old Black Eagle Brewery, which closed in 1965 following the catastrophic consolidation by the ‘Big Brewers’ in the 1950’s and 1960's, such is the commitment of bringing back this old breweries beers and traditions that Westerham uses a strain of yeast that was once used by them. The brewery’s commitment...

Beer enthusiasts have long sought ways to share their experiences, opinions, and recommendations with fellow aficionados.  Enter Untappd , a social networking service designed specifically for beer lovers. Whether you're a casual drinker or a connoisseur, Untappd offers a dynamic platform to rate beers, discover new favourites, and connect with a community that shares your passion.  Here's how you can make the most of Untappd to enhance your beer-drinking experience. Getting Started with Untappd   Getting started is free and easy; first, download the Untappd app, available on both iOS and Android, or access it via their website.  After creating an account, you're ready to dive into the world of beer rating. The interface is user-friendly, allowing you to easily search for beers, breweries, and bars. Once you have your profile set up, you can start logging your beer adventures.  Logging Your First Beer To log a beer, simply search for its name in the app. Untapp...

Love it or hate it, you can't disagree that Guinness, the iconic stout beer, has become synonymous with Irish culture and heritage, think of Ireland and you'll instantly think of Guinness. It has been enjoyed by millions of people around the world for over two centuries now, and while I'm not a fan of this brown beer, the history of Guinness is a fascinating.   How It All Started The story of Guinness goes all the way back to 1759, when Arthur Guinness, signed a 9,000 year lease for a piece of land that became the St. James's Gate Brewery in Dublin, Ireland. With an initial investment of just £100, Arthur Guinness set up his brewery on a modest four acre plot.  He initially brewed traditional beer, but he soon switched to a style of beer known as a Porter, which he had noticed was gaining popularity in London at the time.  Porter is a dark beer made with roasted barley, this produces a distinctive flavour and appearance that sets it apart from other beers. This switch p...

Craft beer tourism is on the rise as beer enthusiasts seek out unique and immersive experiences. This trend sees tourists traveling to renowned beer regions, visiting breweries, going on beer tastings, attending beer festivals, discovering beer trails and routes, and even planning entire vacations around their passion for craft beer (I know, I’ve done it myself).  The UK, with its amazing brewing tradition and burgeoning craft beer scene, has become a prime destination for beer enthusiasts. From historic alehouses to cutting-edge microbreweries, the UK offers a diverse array of experiences for those looking to explore its rich beer culture. Welcome to the world of craft beer tourism in the UK—a journey that promises not just great brews, but also a taste of the country's vibrant history and community spirit. The Heart of British Brewing: London London is often the first stop for beer tourists, thanks to its mix of historic pubs and modern craft breweries. The city’s brewing scene i...

Amber ales have a rich history and a deep-rooted tradition in the world of beer. Among them, English Amber Ales hold a special place, offering a unique taste profile that distinguishes them from their American counterparts. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of English Amber Ales, exploring their history, brewing process, flavour profile, and how they compare to the American Amber Ale.  So, pour yourself a pint and join me on this journey through the golden, malty world of English Amber Ales. The Historical Roots of English Amber Ales Amber ales trace their origins back to the 19th century in England, a period marked by significant developments in brewing technology and the expanding popularity of beer. The term "amber ale" refers to the colour of the beer, which ranges from light amber to deep reddish-brown. The evolution of amber ales is intertwined with the broader history of English brewing, which has always been characterised by a balance between innovation a...

I haven't written much about individual breweries, and I think it's because there are so many great brewers out there, spotlighting a couple just didn't seem fair, BUT, reviewing beers for me is a hobby, but I always remember that for the brewers, it's a serious business, one that has seen many of them living on a knifes edge in recent years, so I think I do need to shine a spotlight on the breweries that I come across that are worthy of a mention. Nestled in the small market town of Northallerton in the UK, award-winning micro-brewery Bayonet Brewing is making waves with its exceptional craft beers and their dedicated approach to brewing. Founded in 2021 beer enthusiast and serviceman Alex Postles, Bayonet Brewing is dedicated to creating special, high-quality beers that reflect both traditional and contemporary styles. And all this while Alex is still full-time in the forces … very impressive. The Vision Behind Bayonet Brewing Bayonet Brewing was founded on the...

I haven't written much about individual breweries, and I think it's because there are so many great brewers out there, spotlighting a couple just didn't seem fair, BUT, reviewing beers for me is a hobby, but I always remember that for the brewers, it's a serious business, one that has seen many of them living on a knifes edge in recent years, so I think I do need to shine a spotlight on the breweries that I come across that are worthy of a mention. Lost Cause Brewing Co. is one such brewer; craft beer has seen a surge in popularity over the past decade or so, with many breweries emerging to offer unique and diverse beer experiences (but also so many more falling by the wayside). Among them, Lost Cause Brewing Co. stands out not just for its exceptional brews but also for its dedication to the craft beer industry.   The Story Behind Lost Cause Brewing Co. To be honest there isn't much of a story as their first beer only came out in April 2024, but a husband and wife ...

I was a little bit late the the party on this one, but I bought the Philips PerfectDraft beer machine about a year ago, and I've had some beers throught it, so what do I think of it? Phillips developed the PerfectDraft in collaboration with AB-InBev, bringing the pub experience to the home. As a beer enthusiast, I’ve extensively tested the machine and many of its kegs over the past year, trying different styles; it's worth me pointing out that I have the original version and not the more expensive and more feature rich "Pro" version. Pros Build Quality : Sturdy construction with high-quality materials. Quiet Operation : It does emits a soft hum, but I would say that it's quieter than a typical fridge. Keg Variety : A wide range of beers are available - from your classic lagers and beers to ciders, belgian ales, and IPAs. With over 60 beers, it does have something for everyone. Ease of Use : It is very easy to use, the keg installation can look a bit fiddly at firs...

If you’re a beer enthusiast with a penchant for tradition and flavour, English Brown Ale is a must-try. This classic British beer style offers a delightful balance of malt sweetness and subtle hop bitterness, making it a favourite among those who appreciate a well-crafted brew. Let's dive into the characteristics, history, and enjoyment of English Brown Ale.   A Brief History English Brown Ale has a history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originating in England, this beer style quickly became a staple in British pubs. Its appeal lies in its rich malt character and approachable flavour, which make it a versatile choice for various drinking occasions. Whether you’re enjoying a pint in a cosy pub or at home with friends, an English Brown Ale never disappoints.   Characteristics of English Brown Ale One of the most charming aspects of English Brown Ale is its wide range of characteristics that cater to different palates. Appearance: The colour of an English Brown Ale ty...

Beer dispensers like the new Aldi Beer Dispenser and the Fizzics DraftPour are devices designed to enhance the experience of drinking beer by simulating the draft pour you would get at a bar or brewery.  These devices often use various technologies to create a smooth, creamy head and improve the flavour and aroma of canned beer (bottles too in the case of the the Fizzics machine).  The Alid Beer Dispenser is a real budget buy, at just £24.99 it is a fraction of some of the machines on the market today (the Fizzics Draftpour is currently around £130), which is a really great price to transform your favourite canned beer into a foamed pint, just as if it was served at your local. Not bad for a battery-operated device. It works with cans sized: 330ml, 350ml, 440ml and 500ml cans, and will accept some bottles, but the bottle needs to be less that 65mm in diameter and less than 168mm (you're probably safer just sticking to cans of beer!). Portability: The device is designed to be ...

  The Munich Helles is a relatively young beer style compared to many other traditional German brews, but its history is nonetheless fascinating. The Munich Helles, which translates to "pale" or "light" in German, was first brewed in the late 19th century in Munich, Germany.  Its creation was a response to the rising popularity of Pilsner-style beers from what is now the Czech Republic. Brewers in Munich, who were famous for brewing rich malty beers, wanted to create a lighter, more palatable beer that would appeal to drinkers who were accustomed to the crisp, refreshing taste of Pilsners. In 1894, the Spaten Brewery introduced the first Munich Helles at the request of Gabriel Sedlmayr, a brewmaster who was inspired by the success of Pilsner-style beers. The Munich Helles was a departure from the darker, maltier beers that were common in Bavaria at the time, and was an instant success. It was brewed using pale malt and a relatively small amount of hops, resulting in...

When I was much, much younger, I often liked a pint of Mild, William Youngers Mild if my memory serves me well, I used to get a bit of stick off my lager drinking mates about it, regulary being told that the landlord but the dregs of pint glasses and drip trays back into the barrel, I didn't care; I remember a caramel sweetness, smooth beer that went down well, and being a relatively low ABV, I seemed to be able to drink pints of the stuff! But alas, the demand for Mild seemed to virtually dry up, until recently ... In a world where the craft beer scene often gravitates towards bold, hoppy IPAs or rich, complex stouts, the unassuming mild beer still quietly holds its ground, offering a distinct and often overlooked charm.  While it may not boast the same intense flavours or high alcohol content as its counterparts, mild beer holds a special place in the hearts of many beer enthusiasts for its gentle demeanour and nuanced character. Originating in England in the 17th century, mild a...