Shepherd Neame’s tribute beer to war and sporting hero

The World War I hero, who was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1914 in honour of his heroic actions during a battle in Neuve Chapelle, France, took gold in the Running Deer event.

The limited-edition golden ale is called Go For Gold (3.4% ABV) and comes at a time when Paris is set to host the Olympcs from 26 July to 11 August this year.

Homage to Faversham roots​

Shepherd Neame said Go For Gold “has a silky, full-bodied mouthfeel courtesy of a blend of Caragold malt and oats”. It added this is complemented with spicy, floral and honey aromas from a pick of Kentish hops, Challenger and East Kent Goldings, and light citrus notes from UK Centennial dry hopping. It is also said to have a well-balanced, gentle bitter finish. 

The pump clip design for the beer, part of Shepherd Neame’s real ale Cask Club calendar, features a medal with a figure taking part in the Running Deer event for which Sir Philip won gold. It pays homage to his Faversham roots with the inclusion of St Mary of Charity Parish Church, and the Paris Olympics with the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Sir Philip was born in Faversham, and was a cousin of Percy Beale Neame, the first Neame to join with the Shepherds to form Shepherd Neame.

Truly extraordinary​

Shepherd neame chief executive Jonathan Neame said: “Sir Philip’s achievements – both as a sportsman and as a war hero – were truly extraordinary, so we thought it was only fitting to mark the centenary of his Olympic success with a special beer.

“We hope that our customers will join us in raising a glass to Sir Philip, the only man in history to be awarded both a gold Olympic medal and the Victoria Cross.”

Brewer Scott Wilkins, who has led the brew, said: “Creating this very special commemorative beer has been a fun challenge for myself and the brewing team.

“Go For Gold brings out the best characteristics of the Kentish hops. The sweet notes balanced with the rounded bitterness means that at 3.4%, Go For Gold makes for a refreshing session gold ale, perfect for enjoying in a sunny pub garden or while watching the sport over the summer.”