Innis & Gunn’s ‘not to be opened for 100 years’ beer

Scottish craft brewer Innis & Gunn has gone to extreme lengths to ensure its latest limited edition beer Vintage remains in stock.

The ABV 7.7% beer was so popular that it almost sold out in the brewer’s online shop, leading the brewer to place one bottle in a time capsule for 100 years.

Future beer lovers – assuming aliens won’t have wiped out mankind – in 2116 will be able to taste the brew, which will be richer and more complex than before it went into the capsule.

Continue to condition

The beer was intended to be drunk on the day of its release, but the yeast in the time capsule bottle will continue to condition the brew beyond its official best before date, according to the company.

Founder and master brewer Dougal Gunn Sharp, said: “I’ve been brewing for the past 30 years and with each new recipe there’s always something new to learn.

“This was certainly the case with Vintage, which has been a labour of love that takes another giant step in our innovative approach to beer.”

The fact that beer continues to mature over time inspired Sharp to preserve it for 100 years, which would be a reminder that the brewery needs to keep innovating, he added.

Earlier this year, the brewer launched a spreadable beer, which it showcased at its newly opened Dundee Beer Kitchen concept – a business model the brewer planned to develop.

Spreadable beer

The spreadable beer is a beer-infused marmalade and was available for a limited time.

Sharp added: “We are educating diners about the nuances and complexities in beer that they otherwise might be unaware of.

“Our staff will let them know what type of beer accompanies a meaty stew, for instance, or what they should sip on to draw out new flavours in desserts.”