Brewery Report June 2008

beerbase · Subject: Brewery Report June 2008 Fri Jun 06, 2008 11:51 am

Beers

Current : Auld Hemp, Nel’s Best, Matfen Magic

Matfen Magic is once again available after problems sourcing hops.

The latest new beer from the brewery is the beer brewed for the recent North East Battle of the Beers, Farmers Pride at 4.2%. This occasional summer beer is described as “a sunshine ale, a light citrus nose, leading to a toffee full-bodied flavour, with a mild spice aftertaste”. It is a single hop beer, brewed with Pioneer hops, and is expected to be brewed again for Tynedale Beer Festival. Nettle Beer (4.5) is also out at the moment, and a last brew, using the last of the farm’s nettles, is imminent The summer beer, Sundancer, is also out at the moment, and the brewery have just released another batch of the 5^th Anniversary Ale.

Planned : Nothing new currently planned.

Capacity

Now brewing twice, sometimes three times, a week, brewery is a 10-barrel plant.

Outlets

The beers have now appeared in over 150 pubs as guest beers, and have again been appearing at numerous Beer Festivals. The brewery is still concentrating on increasing the number of outlets in Northumberland, and is pushing further north, appearing in some Edinburgh pubs.

Distribution (No change since last report)

Currently on Sir John Fitzgerald, Flying Firkin, & Beer Seller lists.

Other

Steve Urwin is not as heavily involved with the brewery or the farm. He has been head-hunted by Business Link to head up a team looking into business funding in Northumberland. Michael Harker is now head brewer, assisted by David. Sally Urwin still oversees the whole operation as Brewery Manager. The farm is now being run by a manager, although Steve still checks on both!

The Visitor Centre is still extremely busy, and restaurant bookings remain high. The number of special occasions, such as wedding receptions and private parties, are increasing steadily. The recent BBQ was another success, with over 200 people attending. The Brewery Shop is currently offering 10% discount on all beer goods, on production of a current CAMRA membership card.

The brewery is looking forward to hosting the next branch meeting in July.