Thanks to the sheer number of great beers available nowadays, it’s almost impossible to pick just five to enjoy in front of a warm and cosy fireplace this winter. But, I’m willing to give it a try! Ideally this list would be much longer but for brevity sake I am going to stick to my top 5. The top two are from my local breweries in Surrey which are my go to tipples. If you haven’t heard of these where you hale from I urge you to give them a try, you won’t be disappointed!
1. T.E.A by Hogsback Brewery
T.E.A. is a Traditional English Ale lovingly crafted with the highest quality English malted barley, Fuggles hops grown in Surrey and water drawn from the chalk aquifers beneath the Hogs Back ridge. It has an unmistakable malty taste balanced perfectly by the hops. ABV 4.2%
2. Shere Drop by Surrey Hills Brewery
Shere Drop is a unique beer that is pale in colour with a slight aroma of grapefruit and lemon. It features a delightful hop bitterness that is balanced out with a malty flavour. Its finish is lengthy and moderately dry and will give an enjoyable warmth to winter days. ABV 4.2%
3. Spitfire by Shepherds Neame
Spitfire is a golden ale which has an energising combination of fruity and flowery hop character matched with sweet biscuit, caramel and toffee malts. The Challenger, Centennial and Saaz hops create a pleasant end with a soft, bittersweet finish. ABV 4.5%
4. Old Crafty Hen by Morland
Old Crafty Hen has a bright amber appearance, with a light, foamy white head. The aroma releases notes of biscuity malt, toffee, raisin, dried dark fruit, and caramel. Its taste consists of malty dark fruits, a hint of fruitcake, hints of caramel, biscuit, and a boozy fruit flavour. It is quite full-bodied. ABV 6.5%
5. Proper Job by St Austell Brewery
Proper Job features an array of citrusy, piney and grapefruity aromas, Proper Job is an exceptional beer whose flavours are balanced out by a light, crisp bitterness in its finish. Imported American hops give it a unique character. ABV 5.5%
No matter which of these delicious beers you choose to drink while you’re sitting in front of the fireplace this winter, you can rest assured that you’ll be enjoying something truly special. Cheers!
If you think I have missed out on a great beer, let me know in the comments below 🙂
Written by Murray Price
I am passionate about environmental protection and believe that everyone should do their part to reduce their impact on the environment. Through the smokeless coal website, I want to make it easier for people to make the switch to smokeless fuels, which can help reduce air pollution and improve public health.