The new beer has been created and named in homage to Black Sheep’s hometown of Masham in North Yorkshire, which is situated 54 degrees north (54 degrees 13 minutes 24 seconds north, longitude; 1 degree 39 minutes 20 seconds west, latitude).
British mountaineer and explorer Alan Hinkes has officially endorsed the beer, which is brewed using German Pilsner malt, Magnum and Polaris hops, and the classic German aroma hop Tettnang.
Black Sheep brewing team
Black Sheep’s brewing team also used the brewer’s own yeast strain and pure water from the Yorkshire Dales.
It is top fermented in Black Sheep’s Yorkshire square fermenters before being lagered for a month to intensify its crisp, clean finish.
The lager was developed following Cask Report research showing 56% of cask drinkers had drunk lager in the past three months.
Keg format
54 Degrees North will be available from tomorrow (12 July) in a 30l keg format and branded glassware, dripmats, keg lenses and PVC bar runners will also be available.
Sales and marketing director Jo Theakston said: “This is a groundbreaking occasion for Black Sheep as we look to the future by delivering an adventurous, refreshing premium lager to UK beer drinkers. 54 Degrees North is the first Black Sheep lager to be launched in our 25-year history and is another cause for celebration in our anniversary year.
“We are introducing pioneering beer to the market that brings our brewing expertise and heritage together, which we believe can become the premium lager choice for fans of Black Sheep and drinkers curious to try something new from us. We are excited by 54 Degrees North’s potential.”