Best English Beers: Experience the Finest English Pints Today [Epic Taste Tour]

Ah, the rich and diverse world of English beer! From the traditional ales that have graced the tables of countless pubs to the modern craft brews that have taken the beer scene by storm, there’s no denying that England has a beer for everyone.

Prepare to embark on a journey through the best English beers, uncovering their unique characteristics, flavors, and the perfect pairings for your favorite English dishes.

Short Summary

• Discover the unique taste and history of classic British ales, craft beers, and modern twists on traditional English brews.
• Enjoy perfect pairings of English beer with traditional dishes for an elevated dining experience.
• Savour bold and rich flavors in porters & stouts or a smooth & creamy delight with Boddingtons Pub Ale.

Discovering the Top English Beers

England is a beer lover’s paradise, boasting an impressive array of traditional ales and innovative craft brews that cater to the tastes of beer drinkers worldwide.

The history of British brewing dates back to the Middle Ages, with ale being an integral part of British culture and most people drinking a liter of homebrew daily.

Pubs have always been at the heart of British beer culture, serving as vibrant entertainment centers and focal points of the community, proudly offering their own beers along with a few delightful guest taps.

When it comes to the best British beers, you’ll find everything from classic British ales like bitter, brown ale, and mild, to modern craft beers that push the boundaries of beer styles.

Among the best selling bottled beer options are:

• Boddingtons Pub Ale
• Bass Ale
• Worthington White Shield
• Fuller’s London Pride
• Shepherd Neame’s Master Brew

With such a diverse beer scene, it’s no wonder that England is considered a prominent beer brewing country.

A Taste of Tradition: Classic British Ales

The world of classic British ales is rich in history and flavor, with beers like Fuller’s London Pride, Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, Greene King IPA, and Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter representing the best of traditional British ales.

Each of these beers offers a delightful taste profile that captures the essence of British brewing. For instance, Fuller’s London Pride is wonderfully rich, smooth, and elegant on the palate, giving a refreshingly clean, satisfying finish.

On the other hand, Timothy Taylor Landlord boasts a complex citrus and hoppy aroma, with a moderate sweetness and lingering hop bitterness at the end.

The beauty of classic British ales lies not just in their taste but also in their perfect pairings with traditional English dishes. Greene King IPA, with its smooth, slightly sweet finish and crisp, refreshing flavor, is a match made in heaven for fish and chips or Sunday roast.

Similarly, the rich, malty taste of Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter, with its delightful hints of toffee, caramel, and dark fruit, perfectly complements hearty pub food like ploughman’s lunch, bangers and mash, or shepherd’s pie.

The marriage of these classic British ales and traditional English dishes creates an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

The Rise of Craft Beer in England

As the beer scene in England evolved, a new wave of innovative breweries emerged, offering delicious and captivating beer styles that catered to modern tastes.

The rise of craft beer in England can be attributed to the likes of The Five Points Brewing Co, Overtone Brewing Co, and Cloudwater, which have breathed new life into the world of English beers.

These breweries have not only embraced traditional British beer styles, but also introduced new and exciting flavors that have captured the attention of beer drinkers worldwide.

Five Points Brewing Co, for instance, is celebrated for its faithful recreation of the classic English beer style: the bitter. Overtone Brewing is a Brewing Company. Co., on the other hand, is renowned for their remarkable NEIPAs (New England style IPAs).

The growth of craft beer in England has been further fueled by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) movement, which has successfully sparked a revival in small-batch, high-quality craft brewing.

It’s clear that the rise of craft beer in England has added a new dimension to the country’s beer scene, providing beer lovers with even more options to explore and enjoy.

Brown Ale: A Northern Specialty

Brown ale, a beloved beer style hailing from Northern England, holds a special place in the hearts of beer enthusiasts. With renowned examples like Newcastle Brown Ale and Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale. Ale, this popular beer style boasts a rich history and a distinct flavor profile.

Colonel Porter first brewed Newcastle Brown Ale in 1920, taking three years to craft the perfect recipe. The beer quickly became a favorite in North East England, and its unique and enjoyable taste has continued to captivate drinkers ever since.

Newcastle Brown Ale is truly a one-of-a-kind beer, with a light cereal character, toffee, toasty malt, candy fruits, slight roast grains, and delectable chocolate flavor. Its light and clean mouthfeel, paired with a delightful chocolate-digestive-biscuit-like finish, makes it a refreshing and satisfying choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re new to brown ale or a seasoned fan, the rich history and flavors of this northern style brown ale are sure to impress.

Pale Ales: A Refreshing Staple

Pale ales have long been a staple in the world of English beers, offering a refreshing and versatile beer style that appeals to a wide range of drinkers. The intriguing history of pale ale and bitter in England dates back to the 18th century when new malting techniques made pale-colored malts available.

Since then, pale ales have become a popular choice for those seeking a crisp, refreshing beer with a well-balanced taste, making it a perfect example of a pale coloured beer.

Popular examples of pale ales include Adnams Ghost Ship, a refreshing pale lager with vibrant, citrusy taste and delightful hints of grapefruit, and Thornbridge Jaipur, an outstanding flagship beer of Thornbridge brewery with a delightful tropical fruit taste and inviting bitterness.

These beers perfectly showcase the versatility of pale ales, providing beer lovers with a refreshing and flavorful option that pairs well with a variety of dishes and occasions.

Hopping Across the Pond: India Pale Ale

India Pale Ale (IPA) is a hoppy and bitter beer style that has gained popularity worldwide, with its origins traced back to the 19th century when it was crafted to make the long journey to India.

Over the years, IPAs have evolved and adapted to the tastes of beer drinkers around the globe, but their rich history and bold flavors continue to be celebrated by traditionalists.

BrewDog Punk IPA and Wychwood Hobgoblin IPA are two examples of IPAs that showcase the best of this beer style. BrewDog Punk IPA is a bold and flavorful beer with a perfect balance of hoppy bitterness and sweet maltiness, while Wychwood Hobgoblin IPA is crafted with a delightful combination of British and Pacific hops, creating a tropical flavor sensation.

If you’re a fan of hoppy and bitter beers, don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor these excellent examples of hopped beer, particularly India Pale Ale.

Porters and Stouts: Bold and Rich Flavors

For those who prefer bold and rich flavors, porter beer and stouts offer a delightful alternative to lighter beer styles. These malty brews were first crafted in large quantities in 18th century London to satisfy the appetites of the hardworking porters at the city’s dockyards.

Today, porters and stouts continue to captivate the palates of beer lovers with their complex flavor profiles and satisfying mouthfeel.

Some notable examples of porters and stouts include Harvey’s Imperial Extra Double Stout, Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout, and Anspach & Hobday’s The Porter. Harvey’s Imperial Extra Double Stout is a double stout beer brewed by the oldest independent brewery in Sussex, boasting a rich and complex flavor that harmoniously blends notes of toffee, caramel, and dark fruit.

Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout, on the other hand, offers delightful flavors of chocolate, coffee, and roasted malt, creating a perfect pairing for a cozy night in or a relaxing evening by the fire.

Lastly, Anspach & Hobday’s The Porter is a delicious London beer style with a well-rounded flavor profile of espresso coffee, robust roasted chocolate malt, and dark chocolate.

No matter which of these bold and rich beers you choose, you’re in for a treat.

Perfect Pairings: English Beers and Food

The art of pairing English beers with traditional English dishes is an exciting and rewarding practice that can elevate your dining experience to new heights. By carefully selecting the right beer to complement the flavors of your chosen dish, you can create a delicious and harmonious meal that will leave your taste buds singing.

For example, pairing a brown ale with a classic English Sunday roast allows the rich, malty flavors of the beer to enhance the savory notes of the roast, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Similarly, a crisp and refreshing Newcastle Brown Ale is the perfect partner for a plate of fish and chips, its light body and subtle hop bitterness cutting through the richness of the fried fish and potatoes.

By experimenting with different beer and food pairings, you can discover new flavor combinations that will make your next meal truly unforgettable.

Cask Beer: A Unique English Experience

Cask beer, also known as real ale, is a traditional English beer style that offers a unique and flavorful experience for those looking to explore the world of English beers in its most authentic form.

Served at cellar temperature and undergoing secondary fermentation in the cask, real ale is a delightful alternative to the more commonly found pressurized and pasteurized beers.

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) was founded in 1971 to champion traditional unpressurized beer and has played a significant role in the revival of small-batch, high-quality craft brewing in England.

By seeking out and enjoying cask beer, you can not only experience a unique and flavorful taste, but also support the preservation of traditional English brewing techniques.

Cold Beer: A Modern Twist on English Brews

For those seeking a modern twist on traditional English brews, cold beer options like Lost and Grounded Keller Pils and Full Circle Brew Co Looper IPA offer a refreshing alternative to classic ales.

Cold beer, served at a lower temperature than room temperature (typically around 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit), provides a wonderfully crisp and refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days.

Lost and Grounded Keller Pils is a wonderfully bitter lager made with pilsner malt from Germany and three classic hop varieties, providing a delightful balance of flavors that is sure to please.

On the other hand, Full Circle Brew Co Looper IPA is a modern twist on the classic English IPA, brewed with a blend of English and American hops to create a unique and delicious flavor profile.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional ales or looking to explore new and exciting flavors, these cold beer options are a fantastic addition to your beer repertoire.

Boddingtons Pub Ale: A Smooth and Creamy Delight

Boddingtons Pub. Ale is a classic British beer that boasts a light, creamy body and a delightful, refreshing taste. Its smooth and creamy texture, combined with a subtle hop bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the malt, makes it a popular choice among beer drinkers looking for a smooth and easy-drinking option.

With its beautiful light golden color and delightful creamy head, Boddingtons Pub Ale is a treat to be enjoyed on a warm summer day or during casual gatherings with friends and family. Its light body and refreshing taste make it a versatile beer that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes for a truly satisfying experience.

Summary

From the rich history of traditional British ales to the innovative flavors of modern craft brews, the world of English beers offers something for every palate.

Whether you’re a fan of the smooth and creamy Boddingtons Pub Ale, the hoppy and bitter India Pale Ale, or the bold and rich flavors of porters and stouts, there’s no denying that England is a beer lover’s paradise.

So raise a glass to the best English beers and toast to the delightful flavors and experiences that await you in this fascinating world of brewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does England have good beer?

Yes, England has some excellent beers! From cask ales to craft brews, there’s no shortage of variety and quality for beer drinkers in England. So if you’re looking for great tasting beer, look no further than England – you won’t be disappointed!

What beer do they drink in Britain?

In Britain, lager remains the most popular beer choice, but there’s also a wide variety of traditional English ales and new craft beers available.

Whether you prefer smooth and refreshing lagers, classic bitters, malty stouts, or unique fruity IPAs, you’ll be sure to find a beer to suit your tastes in Britain.

What are some of the best-selling bottled beer options in England?

Some of the best-selling bottled beer options in England include Boddingtons Pub Ale, Bass Ale, Worthington White Shield, Fuller’s London Pride, and Shepherd Neame’s Master Brew.

What is the history of British brewing?

The history of British brewing dates back to the Middle Ages, with ale being an integral part of British culture. Most people drank a liter of homebrew daily. Pubs have always been at the heart of British beer culture, serving as vibrant entertainment centers and focal points of the community.

What are some examples of classic British ales?

The world of classic British ales is rich in history and flavor, with beers like Fuller’s London Pride, Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, Greene King IPA, and Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter representing the best of traditional British ales.

How has the craft beer scene evolved in England?

As the beer scene in England evolved, a new wave of innovative breweries emerged, offering delicious and captivating beer styles that catered to modern tastes. The rise of craft beer in England can be attributed to the likes of The Five Points Brewing Co, Overtone Brewing Co, and Cloudwater.

What are some examples of food pairings with English beers?

The art of pairing English beers with traditional English dishes is an exciting and rewarding practice. For example, pairing a brown ale with a classic English Sunday roast allows the rich, malty flavors of the beer to enhance the savory notes of the roast. Similarly, a crisp and refreshing Newcastle Brown Ale is the perfect partner for a plate of fish and chips.