Cask Ale Week kicks off at Cheshire Cat

The Cheshire Cat Pubs & Bars site, which is operated by Tim and Mary Bird, has a strong emphasis on cask beer across its north-west locations and will be celebrating the tributary ‘week’ to the beer that is only available in its best form in pubs.

Five members of staff, including Tim, have picked out their favourite choices as accompaniments to a variety of meals served at the pub near Stone.

Hen Cloud IPA 3.9% ABV by Wincle Brewery in Macclesfield is Tim’s choice, which he said is: “A delightful IPA that is low in weight, high on taste, and it receives rave reviews for its unctuous flavour profile and mouthfeel,” as a pairing for chef Andy’s homemade chicken tikka masala with fragrant rice and naan bread at £16.95.

Fruity foretaste​

Meanwhile, Caitlin’s favourite beer is Fitzherbert Best 4.2% ABV from Weetwood Ales and claims it matches the pub’s venison and Lincolnshire poacher burger, which comes with Massey’s farm chips and spiced poached pear chutney for £15.95.

She said of the ale: “First brewed back in 1997 exclusively with whole leaf Cascade hops for a fruity foretaste and distinctly hoppy flavour.”

Connor’s favourite is the stout from Three Tuns Brewery at 4.4% ABV. He said “This award-winning stout is an old-fashioned dark stout, smooth and creamy to taste, with a bittering finish,” and pairs perfectly with the slow-cooked lamb and stout pie, Massey’s farm chips, seasonal greens and homemade stout gravy for £15.95.

Aromatic finish​

Golden, citrussy ale Oracle at 4% ABV from Salopian Brewery is Zee’s choice, which she said is: “A crisp, sparkling sunflower gold ale with a striking hop profile. Dry and refreshing with a long citrus aromatic finish,” and it goes well with the pan-roasted Lincolnshire pork belly, creamy mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables and citrus ale gravy at £17.95.

And finally, Rebecca’s favourite is the Cheshire Cat Blonde Ale at 4% ABV from Weetwood Ales that matches the pub’s pan-fried lemon and parsley salmon fillet, roasted new potatoes, tenderstem broccoli and butter-roasted carrots for £19.95.

She adds: “It’s the ultimate session beer. Smooth and well-balanced with refreshing citrusy flavours. Very blonde and very easy drinking.”

• If your pub is doing something special for Cask Ale Week, email tnel.yyblq@jeoz.pbz​ and send the details and a picture.