New beer from Shepherd Neame and deal with Millwall FC extended
The Faversham-based brewing team has taken inspiration from Belgian beer styles, originally designed to quench the thirst of farm workers, to create Saison (5.5% ABV).
It was crafted in the Small Batch Brewery, which was commissioned last year and is a 15-barrel kit – in comparison, the main brewhouse has a minimum batch size of 110 barrels.
The limited-edition beer is the fourth beer from the smaller brewery kit and is described as “a light-coloured farmhouse ale with a slight natural haze that’s dry and refreshing, with notes of banana and clove”.
The beer was fermented at high temperatures, which is the traditional method of producing this style, and Lallemand’s Belle Saison yeast was used, which can ferment sugars that standard brewers’ yeast cannot.
Lower sugar content
It has been made on a base of lager malt with East Kent Goldings hops added at the boil kettle stage with most of the aroma and flavours coming from the yeast. The result is a beer with a lower sugar content and drier characteristics.
Brewing manager Rupert Hodgkins, who helped design and brew the beer with technical brewer Danielle Whelan, said: “Saison is one of my favourite styles, both for its individuality and rich history.
“Initially brewed by farmers in the cooler months of the year, it was designed to be a sustaining yet refreshing beverage for the farm workers at harvest time. The beer was originally kept in storage tanks for several months, which is the origin of the name.”
Meanwhile, Shepherd Neame has extended its pouring rights partnership with EFL Championship team Millwall Football Club.
The initial deal as provider of beer, cider, wines, spirits and soft drinks at home ground, The Den, south London, was announced in July last year as a three-year agreement but will now run for another five years.
Spitfire Bar
As part of the new agreement, the former matchday shop, in the corner of the Coldblow Lane and Dockers stands, has been transformed into a new pub-style space for fans to enjoy on matchdays.
The ‘Spitfire Bar’, named after Shepherd Neame’s award-winning Spitfire collection of beers, was officially opened on Saturday, 19 October.
Millwall chief commercial officer Luke Wilson said: “The Spitfire Bar will be a great space for fans to relax and enjoy a beer in on matchdays, while being sheltered from the elements.”
Shepherd Neame CEO Jonathan Neame added: “The Lions have an incredibly loyal base of supporters and we look forward to joining them in celebrating the club’s achievements during the coming season.”
