Amber Ales acquires first pub

Ripley-based brewer Amber Ales has purchased its first pub.

Micro-brewer Pete Hounsell has invested in the Talbot Inn, a local struggling pub. He bought the pub, renamed the Talbot Taphouse, from a private investor as a temporary leasehold.

A price has already been agreed for purchase of the freehold "after the industry picks up and we have a few years of history behind us".

After running Amber Ales brewery for three years, Hounsell hopes to increase knowledge in the local area of his ales by showcasing them in his own pub.

"Pub-ownership was always on the radar," he said. "Then this opportunity came up and I thought it was the right time."

A small amount will be spent on refurbishing the pub. Hounsell intends to restore it to its original Victorian feel.

The property does not feature a kitchen, but Hounsell will consider installing one in the future to introduce food service. The plan is to serve snacks and "seasonal beer" that will be changed every quarter.

The ales range from 4% to 6.5% abv and include silver medal winner at SIBA 2007 Imperial Pale Ale and seasonal specials Winter Ruby Ale and Autumn Gold.

The Talbot Taphouse will open on 16 December.