All the latest news, views and essential information from Castle Rock Brewery
No:10 Summer 2016
www.castlerockbrewery.co.uk
Welcome Welcome to our summer edition of the Castle Rock Quarter. Our pubs are set up and raring to go. Cellars, ice machines and beer fridges are all chilled, while our outside areas are flourishing with greenery and bright flowers for a great place to enjoy a beer and a bite to eat. Make the most of it while you can! While the other seasons certainly have their charm, we all know that this is our favourite time of year, and it doesn’t hang on for long! The summer of 2016 will not just be an outdoor affair though, and as we roll into July there is the back-end of Euro 2016, more cricket to watch and the Olympics too. When the sun gets too much, or if you want to dodge the raindrops, then we always have a quiet corner with your name on it. The offer extends for those who may not give a hoot about the summer of sport! Hopefully you’ve become accustomed to the great content of this magazine and I’m sure you’ll join me in thanking the production team and especially the editor, Liv Auckland. The amount of effort she puts in to every issue to bring you the news and views from Castle Rock is exceptional. Don’t let me keep you from the pages to follow, crammed once again with details of what keeps us busy. Read on to learn about our upcoming events, stories, products and initiatives that we’ll bring to you this summer. You don’t even need to think about going anywhere else! Heaven forbid! We enjoy what we do and nothing pleases us more than having a pub full (inside and out) of satisfied customers, but we don’t take anything for granted. We work hard to continually improve and provide you with the best products, premises and service that we possibly can. We’re very grateful for your continued support and should something not meet your expectations, please let us know. Yours in beer (cider, wine and food)!
Colin Wilde Managing Director @SheriffTipple colin.wilde@castlerockbrewery.co.uk
General enquiries: admin@castlerockbrewery.co.uk Sales enquiries: lotte.sefton@castlerockbrewery.co.uk Recruitment: sarah.halpin@castlerockbrewery.co.uk
Queensbridge Road, Nottingham NG2 1NB
Telephone: 0115 985 1615 CRQ is designed and produced by freerbutler limited www.freerbutler-gds.co.uk
Welcome to the 10th edition of the Castle Rock Quarter! It’s 22 degrees outside and we’re just about surviving thanks to the industrial strength fan that turns the marketing office into a bad nineties tornado movie every summer. And I’ve just had a moment gripped with horror. This is the 10th edition. That went fast. Scary fast. I’m starting to realise the phrase “time flies” is actually true, and not just something grumbly old folk say. I’m starting to realise this because, as I write, it’s been just over three years since I plonked myself down in Castle Rock HQ. Not long after, we set about rejuvenating the annual Castle Rock Times, and work on the first edition of the Castle Rock Quarter began. So much has changed since then: directors have retired, pubs have been created and others we’ve said farewell to, new beers have been brewed and served to thirsty customers, and many lifelong memories have been made. Dare I say some of us have got a few more greys to boot. Yes, time seems to fly more and more as the years pass, and I’m pretty confident saying that those working in marketing have got it harder than most. We may be chatting about summer in this edition, but those winter celebrations are already underway behind the scenes…a hideous thought I know. So, how do we slow it down? This modern life is a super busy one, and I reckon rushing around like headless chickens isn’t helping any of us. I’m going to ask you to take some time this summer, wherever you find it. If you’re reading this edition, chances are you’ve got a few free moments right now. Either you’ve picked it up for a quick browse waiting for your pint, or you’ve sat down to really tuck in and have a good read. Maybe you’ve taken a copy home and you’re kicking back in the garden. We're in the business of brewing great beer and running great pubs, and both those things take time. There’s no rushing when it comes to executing a perfect pint, and there should certainly be no rushing when it comes to drinking a perfect pint. So slow it down. Have a read, have a drink, and let’s enjoy whatever sunshine we get. I hope you enjoy reading this edition as much as we enjoyed putting it together!
Liv Auckland Editor
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Beers in focus
Beers of Summer Summer is finally here! Sure, it may be drizzly and grey outside while you’re reading this, but the possibility of waking up to clear blue skies doesn’t seem quite so obscure. The promise of balmy evenings is upon us, the beer gardens are open and flourishing, and there’s no better way to bask in the longer days than at the pub with your loved ones. As always, there’s plenty of beer being brewed for the weeks ahead. We’ve got the return of some summer favourites for you, a refreshing pilsner-style pale back by popular demand, and a fiery charity beer too. More creations from Traffic Street should be hitting bars any time now, which you can read about on page 7. Without further ado, here’s to the beers of summer…
Andy Turner 4.2% (July-September)
Brian Clough 4.2% (June-August)
Skylarks Reserve 4.5% (June-August)
Alongside the run-up to Rio 2016, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to celebrate multi-medal winning track and field athlete Andy Turner, born in Hucknall, Nottingham, Turner has competed in the Olympics, won gold at the Commonwealths and been crowned a European champion. In 2010, Turner broke the world record in the 200 metre hurdles. Since retiring, Turner has become a champion body builder. In celebration, we’ve brewed up a session IPA as number 24 in the Nottinghamian Celebration Ales range. Andy Turner is refreshing, with aromas of juicy tropical fruit and a sturdy bitterness. Pair with: Caesar salad or seafood risotto.
That’s right. You heard. Brian Clough was one of the fastest selling Nottinghamian Celebration Ales ever when we launched the beer back in January 2015. Flying out of the brewery in record time, it was clear that across Nottingham and beyond, Clough fans were keen to celebrate the best manager England never had. Now, Clough is back by popular demand in time for the Euro 2016 and the British summer. This time, the brew stands outside of the Nottinghamian Celebration Ales as part of our 2016 ‘specials’ range. This pilsner-style pale ale is deliciously more-ish and easy drinking, with a floral aromas and a clean, bitter-sweet finish. Pair with: A beef or veggie burger, or use it to make batter!
Our range of beers in support of the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust has been a big part of Castle Rock’s brewing identity since they began in 2001. They continue to be extremely popular and enable our brewers to produce a diverse selection of beers alongside our core range. Our support remains as strong as ever, with the creation of four beers a year to raise awareness and support the many beautiful Wildlife Reserves in Nottinghamshire that the Wildlife Trust look after. Skylarks Nature Reserve is located at Holme Pierrepont, near our very own Poppy & Pint, and is home to an array of wetland birds, with nearly 200 species of bird being recorded there. In true summery fashion, Skylarks is a German-style wheat beer with spice. It’s naturally cloudy, vegan friendly, and a sessionable 4.5% ABV. Pair with: A creamy pudding like vanilla cheesecake or banoffee pie.
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Baptism Of Fire 4.8% (July-September)
Hemlock Bitter 4.0% (May-July)
Trent Vale Reserve 4.2% (September-November)
Named after the military phrase for a soldier’s first experience of combat conditions, Baptism of Fire is brewed in remembrance to those who fought and fell in the Battle of the Somme. As one of the bloodiest battles in military history, we have created this beer to commemorate the Somme 100 years on. Baptism of Fire is number seven in the Commemoration Collection, which is created to honour the centenary of the Great War, with one off beers available until 2019. Each remembrance beer in this special range marks an event, person or people of the First World War. 10p from each pint sold is donated to the Royal British Legion and Amnesty International UK, supporting two charities which perform vital work in the face of warfare. Baptism of Fire is an amber ale, infused with ginger for a fiery and warming finish. Pair with: Stir fry or fruit crumble.
Hemlock is back again for summer 2016. This annual favourite is a full-flavoured, traditional session bitter. Midbrown in colour with a distinctive hoppy aroma, Hemlock is dry and bitter with a long aftertaste. At just 4.0%, it’s a great session beer. Pair with: A ploughman’s platter of cheeses, pickle and rustic bread.
Following Skylarks in the Wildlife Reserve series, Trent Vale is a light brown bitter at 4.2%. Earthy and spicy on the nose with balanced, fresh hop taste, this beer is brewed with an experimental US hop variety. The Trent Vale area covers the River Trent and its surrounding landscape from Newark to East and West Stockwith, just north of Gainsborough. Pair with: Sunday Roast or a hearty stew.
Football in the Community Our Colin Wilde (MD) took part in the 15th annual North V South football match, which Castle Rock sponsored. The game was between the staff and friends of brewery workers and owners, and ended in a convincing 5-nil thrashing of the northern squad at the hands of younger, leaner, fitter and frankly more talented players from the south… The event was played in aid of Notts County's Football in the Community programme, with Stuart Bateman in goal. This charity raises aspirations and supports some of the most disadvantaged people across Nottingham through sport. Thanks to Notts County, we also raised £500 for the Notts County Football in the Community Project. An exhausted Colin Wilde, managing director at Castle Rock Brewery who was assisted by Notts County's Neil Kelly to bring the fixture to Nottingham for the first time, said:“Some of us may be getting a bit long in the tooth for this, but age and experience came into their own at the post match debriefing over pies and pints hosted by Castle Rock at the Embankment and Canalhouse pubs, where the north excelled.”
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Managed Pub in Focus:
Fox & Crown In the charming market town of Newark, just off the thriving cattle market on Appletongate, is the lovely Fox and Crown. Castle Rock was born as ‘Tynemill’ 39 years ago when former MD Chris Holmes took on the Old King’s Arms in Newark. And so began the Castle Rock mantra: ‘create a friendly, welcoming pub and serve high quality beers’. This goal remains at the core of what we do, and always will. Although we moved on from the Old King’s Arms, acquisition of the Fox & Crown in 1997 marked our return to Newark. A quaint and humble pub, the Fox comprises of a few different sections around the bar. You can take a seat in the main bar for a drinks and a laugh with friends, hide yourself away in the little lounge room with the paper, or take in the peace of the courtyard beer garden, which is tucked away behind the pub. The Fox offers up to ten cask ales and (soon to be) three craft keg beers. New manager Dan says, “We’ve mixed up the beer range a lot since I started. It used to be quite traditional ale wise, but now we are regularly stocking some more modern beerstyles.” The Fox is also home for Alex McKenzie, Castle Rock’s cider guru, so real cider fans are sure to enjoy the range on offer. Flip to page 11 to find out which ciders Alex recommends you try this summer. The team at the Fox pride themselves on buying local produce, with all meat, fish and vegetables sourced from the town. Even the coffee is sourced from GH Porters, just around the corner.
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As we write this edition, the team has been joined by a new chef, Joseph, and he’s already cooking up some treats. We’ve been sampling homemade mozzarella sticks, mac’n’cheese, Jambalaya, and reaper chicken wings while the new menu is put together. This summer Joseph will also be creating some dishes in celebration of Hot Dog Day, Cheesecake Day and Welsh Rarebit Day to name a few. The Fox and Crown is ideally located, whether you’re in Newark for recreation, culture or delving into the history of the civil war. Down one of Newark’s many pleasant side roads, the Fox is just off the thriving cattle market, a short stroll from the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, a couple of minutes from the Palace Theatre, and less than a minute walk from the National Civil War Centre. The pub also features on the unique “Civil War Ale Trail”. Live music is a regular feature, showcasing talent from Newark, Nottinghamshire and beyond. As we send to print, a new Open Mic Night is about to launch, and there’s the turning of brain cogs as the team prepare for a
weekly quiz night, taking place every Tuesday thanks to resident brainbox Drew. Follow the team on Facebook and Twitter as Dan and Joseph set the world to rights via good food, good beer, and a very good pub.
Regular Events & Offers at the Fox & Crown • Two for One Tuesdays - Buy 2 meals and get the cheapest free • Burger & a Pint all day every day £7.95 • Sunday Roasts 2 roasts and a bottle of wine for £20, 1 roast and a pint £7.95 • Quiz Night 9pm on Tuesdays, £2 per brain
Traffic Street Specials
Traffic Report Lewis Townsend writes... During the last issue of the Castle Rock Quarter we were still kind of feeling the fallout from the enigma that was #7 New Era, Traffic Street’s pale ale and pinot grigio hybrid. Since then, there have been waves of development peppered with moments of reflection, and a beer or two along the way. Our last report was news that Dan had churned out two very different but very wonderful beers, reiterated mash double IPA #8 Guns of Navarone, clocking in at a modest 10.3%, and perhaps our fastest selling Traffic Street to date, #9 Enjoy Yourself, a grapefruit session pale. We have a few things up our sleeve and we’re already starting to think of the Robin Hood Beer and Cider Festival… as well as a few other milestones. Dan, the minx that he is, has hidden away a few barrels of Guns of Navarone, Little Bitch and New Era to age up, and we might unleash a bit of that to festival goers. We’re also on the hunt for some wooden barrels which nowadays
seem like gold dust, especially to the little fish in the big pond. A 100% wooden cask Traffic Street bar does sound tempting. Dan and I visited the Junction in Castleford a while back now, the manager of which serves all of his beer via wooden barrels (collecting and transferring the beer himself). It was inspired, and it’s quite obvious that our love affair with proper wooden barrels is still in the honeymoon stage. In between our day-jobs, Dan and I have conceived the idea for two more beer children and we’re really excited to get them out to you (but Dan has to brew them first, which is the elating and stressful part). First up, we have a Berliner Weisse with raspberries, soured with a lactobacillus culture and left to mature. Dan has been as resourceful as ever in finding a way to get this to work! Second up, an English seasonal treat in the form of an elderflower and lemon pale ale, nice and sessionable and absolutely perfect
for the Summer. Dan handpicked the elderflower heads at Skylarks Reserve with the help of Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. We might even leave the bugs in there for a bit of extra wild yeast. (Just kidding… or are we?) Thanks, as always, to Dan; without his unyielding and zealous beer mind, natural magnetism to often nearimpossible tasks, as well as his fabulous beard, Traffic Street wouldn’t exist as it is today and it’s thanks to him that we’ve been able to release some really interesting beers. So, give us a follow on Twitter (@Traffic_Street and @TSSDroid) and keep in touch! We’re planning a tap takeover (as well as launching potentially both of the new beers) at the lovely Swan in the Rushes in Loughborough in August, and we’d love to see you there.
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The Goings On Fire Weekender The 1st April marked a year since a fire swept through our lovely Willowbrook pub in Gedling. The team at the Willowbrook threw a ‘Fire Weekender’, in celebration of the local firefighters, builders and staff, and of course the (very speedily created) new look of the pub. We’re hoping everything calms down now and the team at the Willowbrook can crack on with doing what they do best: running an excellent pub.
The Rook crowned Pub of the Year The Rook and Gaskill, our most Northerly pub, has been crowned Pub of the Year by York CAMRA. The Rook, which also picked up the Cider Pub of the Year, was described as a “real ale landmark and a must do for anyone visiting the city.” We’re so pleased for landlord Paul Marshall, his wife Mary, his son Johnjo, and the rest of the team up North. Congratulations to you all! A truly deserved win.
A Literary Hero
Hey Birdy
In April we launched the 23rd beer in the Nottinghamian Celebration Ales range: D.H. Lawrence, brewed to commend the life and works of the literary hero. Many settings in Lawrence’s most famous works, Lady Chatterley’s Lover, were drawn from his years growing up in Eastwood. The beer was brewed shortly after Nottingham received status as a UNESCO City of Literature, after months of hard work by a team of writers, board members, students and ambassadors. It’s a permanent and well-deserved honour for our fine city. Here’s to D.H. Lawrence, novelist, poet, painter, literary critic, and a man of rebellious spirit.
As aforementioned, this year we brought back Idle Valley Reserve, a single hopped IPA brewed with a new UK hop variety Olicana. Olicana is part of Charles Faram’s hop development programme and imparts juicy but subtle tropical fruit notes.
In Good Company We were super chuffed to be shortlisted for the Nottingham Post Business Awards, alongside UNIdays and Paragon. The award went to the latter in the end, but our success in reaching the final of such a prestigious award was an honour. Our MD Colin Wilde noted our finalist status was ‘completely due to the efforts of everyone who works for, and contributes to, this company.’ Congrats to UNIdays and to Paragon, our fellow finalists!
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Head of marketing Lewis Townsend visited Idle Valley to re-launch the beer and take in some wildlife. The Idle Valley Nature Reserve is by far the largest site cared for by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, covering over 450 hectares – the size of about 600 football pitches. Lewis is pictured (above) with the gang at Idle Valley.
Best Bar (N)one Best Bar None is a national award scheme supported by the Home Office, aimed at promoting responsible management and operation of alcohol licensed premise. 75 towns and cities across the UK now participate in the scheme, after results showed an improvement in standards in the night time economy. We were thrilled to find out that the Canalhouse and the Kean’s Head had both been awarded Gold in the Best Pub category.
Theatre by Canal, River or Road We’ve been supporters of Mikron Theatre Company since Castle Rock began, and this year was particularly exceptional. This touring season, the company is performing at a whopping 150 venues and, having performed at the Poppy and Pint many times over the years, we were thrilled when Mikron returned to the venue on their 45th year. On 15th June, Mikron brought to the stage ‘Canary Girls: Heroes on the Home Front’. If you haven’t caught a show from Mikron yet, we highly recommend it. Find out more at www.mikron.org.uk
Tenanted pub in focus
New Barrack Tavern The New Barrack in Sheffield holds a firm reputation has as a great real ale pub, local music venue, home of a monthly comedy club, and a hub for Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield Tigers. Kev and Steph Woods have been running the ‘NBT’ for thirteen years, and in 2015 became tenants of the pub rather than managers. With a wealth of experience behind them, daughter Rebecca making her way up through the ranks, and a humble, easy-going nature about them, the Woods have turned the New Barrack Tavern into an excellent and unique pub over the years. There’s a good feeling when you step into the NBT; something between returning home and having a minibreak. It’s a sizeable 1930s building separated into distinct areas, the main bar showcasing a row of gleaming real ale hand pulls, leading to a large room complete with stage area and adorned in music memorabilia, a light and airy function room, and a multi-awardwinning walled beer garden which is always sure to cheer your spirits. So with this welcoming, homely vibe and an array of entertainment (game of pool, anyone? Chess club? Stand-up comedy or live music perhaps?), you could pretty much holiday at the Barracks. We decided it was time for a catch up with Team NBT, to find out what’s been going on the past year, and what’s in the pipeline… Steph, what have you been up to since becoming a tenanted pub? Well I broke my ankle so was out of commission for a few months after going tenanted. That wasn’t a great start to our journey. But overall it has been brilliant. We’ve been developing the use of the function room (left), working on the garden as always, and we had a really great night a while back with a
Traffic Street Specials takeover which went down really well. It was so good to have Dan and Lewis here showcasing the range and celebrating in Sheffield. Tell us about your recent TV appearance… It was a reyt good season for Sheffield Wednesday. It all got really exciting in the run up to us being in the Championship play off final at Wembley. Jimmy from Lost Industry Brewing made us a couple of Sheffield Wednesday beers, which got the attention of their manager Carlos Carvalhal. So the Sheffield Star came down and did a big feature, and then we were joined by Sky Sports. It was so surreal. What are you up to at the moment? Any plans on the horizon…? We’re working on plans to extend the bar which will give us room for an extra fridge, more lines and more whiskeys. Which events should we put in the calendar? We have our annual music festival 26th-28th August and a charity festival on Sunday 31st July 3pm. And there are three all day comedy festivals too on 3rd, 17th and 24th August pre-Edinburgh Fringe. How would you describe the New Barrack to someone who’s never been before?
The Barracks is a great family-friendly pub. We give a warm welcome to new and old, just like pubs should be. Once you have been, we reckon you’ll want to come back! We’re feeling pretty sure about that too… Visit www.newbarracktavern.com Twitter @NewBarrack Facebook New Barrack Tavern Instagram new_barrack_tavern
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Beers
Nottingham Craft Beer Week Back when the rise of craft beer was just a ripple in the beer drinker’s glass, a couple of Castle Rock staff were especially passionate about the artisan beers of Europe, and set about sourcing unique bottles from far and yonder. Nottingham’s beer drinkers were growing in passion too, and the ranges grew and grew. At the Kean’s Head, word was spreading about a secret stash of beers available to the customer but tucked away out of sight.
2015 brought the inaugural Nottingham Craft Beer Week to our fine land, and Notts well and truly landed as Britain’s beer destination. This July the celebrations are back, and the heads of craft beer lovers are spinning in excitement.
NOTTINGHAM CRAFT BEER WEEK DISCOVER WORLD BEERS EVENTS (Entry is free)
At the Canalhouse, Wayne Harvey became the driving force behind world beers. Soon, the fridge was filled and another was on order. By the time Discover World Beers was official, the range at the Canalhouse was probably the biggest in the East Midlands. Since then, the bar has been extended twice to house more fridges, and Wayne became ‘world beer buyer’ for Castle Rock. Dedicated to sourcing the most prestigious and exciting craft brews from across the world, Discover World Beers was introduced to other Castle Rock pubs, and it continues to get bigger and better.
NOTTINGHAM CRAFT BEER WEEK 2016 runs from Monday 4th July to Sunday 10th July
Wed 6 Jul | From 5pm | Kean’s Head Shiny Brewing Showcase & Meet the Brewer
Now, Nottingham has a thriving craft beer scene, and beer enthusiasts across the city and beyond come together to celebrate, debate, and educate. The brewers and drinkers are all focussed on one thing: the beer.
Read on to find out what Discover World Beers events are on this Nottingham Craft Beer Week. Other events will take place at bars and bottle shops around the city including Jam Café, Annie’s Burger Shack and the Brew Cavern. Find out more by liking the Nottingham Craft Beer Week page on Facebook, and using #ncbw16 on Twitter. See Page 11 opposite to find out which session IPAs Wayne recommends this summer.
Mon 4 Jul | From 5pm | Kean’s Head Wild Beer Co. Tap Takeover with Giles Jenkinson
Thu 7 Jul | From 6pm | Canalhouse Elusive Brewing Tap Takeover & Meet the Brewer Thu 7 Jul | From 5pm | Embankment Thornbridge Cask & Keg Tap Takeover Thu 7 Jul from 5pm – Fri 8 Jul to 11pm | Kean’s Head Omnipollo & To ØI Tap Takeover Fri 8 Jul | From 6pm | Canalhouse Fourpure Brewing Co. Tap Takeover Sat 9 Jul | From 1pm | Kean’s Head Buxton Brewery Tap Takeover & Meet the Brewer
Real Cider Cider Guru Alex McKenzie selects his favourite real ciders this summer. Follow Alex on Twitter to have a chat @CiderGuruCRB The real cider industry continues to grow, with new producers popping up all over the UK. While there are many who have loved real cider for a long while, newcomers are moving from flavoured, fizzy cider to the real deal. Our Cider Guru, Alex, is a vessel of real cider knowledge, so read on to find out what he recommends… Tiny Rebel – Rocksteady 5.5%
Biddenden – Medium 8%
Worley’s – Beatnik Billy 5.5%
This Welsh brewery are well renowned for their fantastic craft and cask offerings, but have really highlighted their versatility in producing Rocksteady. In pairing up with Hogan’s Ciders, Tiny Rebel have come up with a delicious medium hard cider, full of tangy apple flavour. A zesty option and only 5.5%.
Those looking for a boozier option would do worse than to check out Biddenden’s medium cider, made with a blend of Kentish culinary and dessert apples. Clocking in at 8%, it’s not for the faint hearted, but is well worth a try. Definitely on the sweeter side of medium, it gives plenty of warning of its high ABV, but doesn’t lack in rich, sweet and sour flavours.
Somerset producer Worley’s have grown popular in the South West over the last few years and are now starting to reach the East Midlands. Beatnik Billy is light and refreshing sweet cider, with a sharp kick at the end. An attempt to recreate the style of ciders being produced in the US of recent years, the name gives a nod to the ‘Beat Generation’ of post-World War II.
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Discover World Beers
Summer sessions @DiscoverWBeers Follow us to stay in the loop with offers, events and news As it’s summer I thought it best write about a style I reach for during warmer weather – entering stage right is the ‘Session IPA’. For some of you it won’t need much introduction but for others, you’ll be asking ‘what’s so special about it, we’ve always done session beers over here?’ To give the style some context, the term ‘Session IPA’ comes from the US (where else…). Beers in this category were developed by US craft breweries to act as a counterpoint to the trend of ever increasing ABVs. The aim was to harness all the flavour of an IPA but without so much booze. Cynical drinkers see the term as a marketing ploy: a rebrand of the ubiquitous pale ale, an attempt at getting IPA drinkers to downgrade by hijacking the most popular acronym in beer – particularly in the US where craft beer drinkers have grown used to 6% and above for their everyday beers. No matter what viewpoint you take, the term Session IPA has taken off and it’s here to stay. Our first encounter with this style was from Michigan’s Founders, whose All Day IPA has featured in the column before. Intense citrus aromas will tell you this is an IPA and not your run-of-the-mill pale ale. It’s fairly light
bodied and easy drinking, a quintessential example of the style. Other American varieties in our bars include Firestone Walker Easy Jack, a very pale ale with aromas of melon and sweet citrus, and Stone Go To IPA which, again, is very pale with big tropical fruit aromas (think pineapple and guava). We have a long history of session strength beers in the UK (most cask ales are under 5%, be they mild, stout, bitter or blonde ale) and so this newfound style has translated to the UK market too. British brewers were arguably producing modern, hop forward Session IPAs well before the US cottoned onto it (Dark Star Hophead and Roosters Yankee spring to mind) but we’ll leave that there, shall we? UK breweries such as Fourpure and Beavertown have US inspired session IPA’s in their core line-up. Fourpure’s is lighter than their regular pale ale which allows the hop flavours and aromas to shine (their Pale Ale is no slouch in that regard either).
Beavertown’s Neck Oil evolved from a traditional English bitter into its current form: a bold and aromatic pale ale. The name says it all. It’s something to slake the thirst but in true craft form there’s oodles of flavour too. You’ll find both beers in can and on draught in our bars so check them out if you haven’t already. While you’re at it, there are some great local brewers that have added Session IPAs to their ranges. Totally Brewed Guardian of the Forest and Black Iris Endless Summer hit those hoppy high notes that you would expect from an IPA but clock in at 3.8 and 4.5% respectively. Our very own Traffic Street Special’s Enjoy Yourself even had added grapefruit to enhance the citric hoppy flavours. So if you’re a bit of a hophead (like me) and you’re looking for something to quench your thirst during the Summer months, then give one of the above a go, you might just find your new favourite beer.
Follow Wayne on Twitter to sta y up-to-date!
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Cuisine
All Around the World As you probably know, the Canalhouse is a hub for beer enthusiasts, with an impressive range of 6 real ales, 9 keg beers and over 250 bottles. But beer at the Canalhouse isn’t just about hundreds of prestigious brews to quench your thirst, it’s also dining experience. Every dish on the menu at the Canalhouse comes with a suggested beer pairing. By choosing the paired dish and beer, you’re sure to experience the full potential of the flavours and feel of both. On the food menu you’ll find ‘Beer Bites’ and ‘World Beer Burgers’, created to celebrate the diversity of our favourite beverage. For the peckish, Beer Bites includes beer battered onion rings, beer battered Gurnard fillets, and Hopped chicken wings. But…those ready for a proper lip-smackin’ meal should turn to the World Beer Burgers. We popped over to chat with head chef Chris Maxwell, who explained: ‘We wanted to do something different with our burgers. It’s not just about the toppings; it’s about using different meats too. Now we use beef, chicken, kangaroo, buffalo, veal, ostrich, wagyu, springbok and anything we think will make a great burger. These aren’t huge ‘challenge’ burgers, our goal is to create an authentic taste and experience.’ Chris of course cooked some up for us. It’s a hard life. Read on to see which burgers we tried, and why they pair so well with the selected brews…
Thai Chicken Burger Minced chicken with chilli, garlic, lemongrass, shallot, galangal and kaffir lime leaves, topped with an Asian slaw and served in a floured bun. Paired with Firestone Walker Pivo Hoppy Pils, 5.3% Pivo is impeccably balanced with floral aromatics and spicy herbal nuances, with zest and lemongrass notes.
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Why Pivo? A little bit of bitterness from Pivo will help cut through the chilli heat and spice, while the floral and zest complements the flavours.
All American Burger Minced beef burger topped with cheddar cheese, beer battered onion rings and homemade bbq pulled pork, served in a glazed Krispy Krème doughnut. Paired with a bottle of Brooklyn Lager, 5.2% ABV Brooklyn Lager is an amber-gold lager with refreshing bitterness and a floral hop aroma. Why Brooklyn? Brooklyn has a real malt sweetness to it that complements beef, while the floral hop bitterness contrasts the meat and refreshes the palette.
Italian Burger Minced beef with fresh basil and sunblushed tomato, filled with mozzarella cheese and topped with Milano salami and prosciutto in a floured bun. Paired with a bottle of Fruh Kolsch, 4.8% Kolsch has a beautiful carbonation, with aromas of fruit, lemons and grains, with a solic bitterness. Why Fruh Kolsch? It’s light enough to not overpower the Italian flavours, but effervescent enough to cut through the meat and cheese.
Australian Burger Kangaroo burger topped with melted cheese and barbecued shrimp, served in a floured bun. Paired with a bottle of Little Creatures Pale Ale, 5.2% Little Creatures Pale Ale is a classic, American-style pale bursting with flavour and aroma. Why Little Creatures? Citrusy hops really complement prawns, and cut right through the richness of Kangaroo meat
Alongside World Beer Burgers, the Canalhouse food menu also includes daily changing specials, PieMinister pies, seasonal salads and rustic sandwiches.
Top picks
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Editor’s picks Upcoming Events July 2016 Throughout July
Picnic Month! At the Vat & Fiddle and the Golden Eagle Summer has officially landed (whatever the weather) when it’s time for a picnic! Celebrate one of our favourite British pastimes with at the Vat & Fiddle, where you can tuck into a range of different Ploughman’s picnics, and at the Golden Eagle, where you can bring the family for a homemade picnic in the beautiful beer garden without the hassle of preparing it yourself! Sat 2nd July
68 Special At the Poppy & Pint, 9pm, free Elvis tribute band 68 Special are back by popular demand at the Poppy! Enjoy a night of fancy dress, dancing and singalong, and tuck into some indulgent American food washed down with USA brews. Sat 2nd – Mon 4th July
Tour de France Showing at multiple Castle Rock pubs, including the Bread & Bitter, home to a lovely local Velo club! Sun 17th- Sat 23rd July
Belgian Week The Canalhouse celebrates Belgian Week with a special food menu and offers on Belgian beers. Fri 22nd July
Milestone Brewery Tap Takeover At Swan in the Rushes Cromwell’s Milestone Brewery take over the taps at the Swan with both cask and keg beers. Entry is free and kicks off at 7pm. Wed 27th July
Scotch Whisky Day The Bread & Bitter celebrates with offers and a daily special made using Scotch, while at the Vat & Fiddle you can double up for £2, the Swan in the Rushes showcases a range of over 30 whiskys, the Willowbrook pairs whisky with special food dishes, and the Golden Eagle host a scotch whisky tasting evening, including their famous Game Pie. Back in Nottingham, the Kean’s Head host a tasting evening in collaboration with the Whisky Shop: four exciting beers are paired with four whiskys, accompanied by beer and whisky based nibbles. To find out more visit www.castlerockbrewery.co.uk/whisky-day
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Full listings on our website -
Wed 27th July- Wed 10th August
Wimbledon Make like the Brits at the Bread & Bitter. Watch Wimbledon while tucking into a cucumber sandwich, strawberries and cream and a cuppa. Only £7.
August 2016 Fri 5th August
International Beer Day Well obviously this is one of our annual celebrations, and all Castle Rock pubs are pulling out the stops as usual. We’ll be showcasing our craft beers with samples to tantalise your taste buds, guest beers and bottles to try, and offers (like 20p off all keg, bottle and can beers at the Lincolnshire Poacher) for you to enjoy. Fri 5th- Sun 21st August
Rio Olympics 2016 The Olympic Games are back. We’ll be showing what we can, where we can, and the Bread & Bitter will be serving up an Olympic Breakfast for those in need of fuelling up! Sun 7th August
IPA Day Do we need an excuse to celebrate IPAs? Not really, but we won’t turn it down. All Castle Rock pubs will have your favourite IPAs on the bar, and you’re sure to find a few new and exciting brews to try too. Just to get your juices flowing, the Kean’s Head will be showcasing a session IPA, a Double IPA, a Black IPA, an Imperial IPA, and creating special dishes including IPA steamed fish and IPA beer truffles. Be sure to follow your CRB local to learn about special offers on the day!
3pm. Over at the Willowbrook, special honey-themed dishes and drinks will be created in a bid to save our bees! Thu 25th August
Lost Industry Tap Takeover At the Kean’s Head The Kean’s throw a glorious Tap Takeover and Meet the Brewer evening with Sheffield’s Lost Industry, showcasing 10 keg and 5 cask beers from this new and innovative brewery. More details to follow, so keep up with the Kean’s on social media. Sun 28th August
Summer Bank Holiday At the Willowbrook Finally! It’s the summer bank holiday and the Willowbrook will be partying with live music, a BBQ and pitchers of Pimms! Follow the Willowbrook to stay up to date.
September 2016 3rd September
Lady Bay Summer Festival At Poppy & Pint The perfect family fest is back this summer in Lady Bay! Bring the whole family for a free day out and enjoy live music, performances, displays, stalls, and delish food and drink. The fun kicks off at midday! Sat 3rd September
Welsh Rarebit Day Pop along to the Kean’s Head for a serving of traditional Welsh rarebit and a pint of Welsh cask beer from the likes of Tiny Rebel, Waenm Otley, Seren or Crafty Devil for just £6.95! 7th September
Sat 13th August
Salami Day
Waterfront Festival
Is it a weird one? Maybe a tad. But the Lincolnshire Poacher and the Fox & Crown will be celebrating ye ould cured sausage in style… It’s time for an Italian feast over at the Willowbrook, with an authentic Italian five course meal, just like Mama would cook, prepared by a real Italian cook using wine and beer. Tickets are £30 per head. Follow the Willowbrook to find out more!
At Canalhouse One of Nottingham’s most highly regarded music festivals is back this summer. Bringing together the best Notts musicians across multiple stages, Waterfront fest is a one day celebration of fine local talent. I’m Not From London and Audacious Face Music are behind the extravaganza, which has raised over £17,000 for charity over the years. Visit the Nottingham Waterfront Festival on Facebook to find out more, and be sure to get your tickets early before they sell out! Sun 21st August
Honey Bee Day At the Golden Eagle and the Willowbrook In celebration of World Honey Bee Day, the Golden Eagle have created a unique Gin Tasting event with honey-themed High Tea. Tickets are £20 and the afternoon starts at
9th September
Miles and Erica At Poppy & Pint Trap 6 Events introduce Miles Hunt and Erica Nockalls, who have toured the UK, Europe and the USA since 2006. Performing acoustic shows including tracks from their own albums, the pair also plays Wonder Stuff material and the occasional cover. To buy tickets visit gigantic.com
www.castlerockbrewery.co.uk/event
events in Castle Rock pubs are updated daily September 2016 12th September
Video Game Day At the Fox & Crown The Fox make use of the big screen for playing classic video games…think N64, PS2 and Wii. Ready, set, to the pub you go! 17th September-3rd October
Oktoberfest At Canalhouse The Canalhouse discount German beers and create a special German food menu especially for Oktoberfest 2016. Other Castle Rock pubs will be celebrating too, as always. Visit www.castlerockbrewery.co.uk/oktoberfest to find out more. 18th September
Funhouse Comedy
Sunday 19th September
Talk like a Pirate Day at the Kean’s Head Come to the Kean’s and order one of our fantastic rums with the correct accent for a 50p discount! 23rd July
Hotdog Day Fox & Crown, Willowbrook, Swan in the Rushes
COMING SOON: This July the Kean’s Head will be launching a monthly “break-even” keg event, kicking off with Almanac Pumpkin Sour. Follow the Kean’s on social media to get involved. Castle Rock beer will be at Splendour again this year, held in Woollaton Park, Nottingham, on 23rd July
At Swan in the Rushes A night of live stand-up comedy from Funhouse, with at least 5 comedians for just £5. Visit www.funhousecomedy.co.uk to find out more.
Regulars MONDAYS Bread & Bitter: Curry & Quiz Night. Curry, rice, naan and a drink for just £8.95, from 5pm. Horse & Plough: Burger and Beer Night, £9.90 from 5pm Kean’s Head: Pizza Night, using homemade beer pizza dough. £10.95 from 5pm Stratford Haven: Curry & Pie Night, £7.95 from 5pm Willowbrook: Pie & Pint Night, £10 from 5pm. TUESDAYS Poppy & Pint: Curry & Quiz Night, £7.95 from 5pm (Quiz £1 from 9pm) Stratford Haven: Pie & Pint Night, £9.95 from 5pm Vat & Fiddle: Curry & Pint Tuesdays, £7.95 from 12noon-8pm Willowbrook: Quiz Night from 9pm, free. WEDNESDAYS: Embankment: Pizza Night, 2 pizzas and a bottle of house wine, £24.95 from 5pm. (Live acoustic music from 7pm) Horse & Plough: 2 for 1 meals from 5pm Stratford Haven: Steak & Blues Night, a new menu each week (with veggies catered for) and live Blues. From 5pm. THURSDAYS Horse & Plough: live music the first Thursday of the month starting at 9:30pm Swan in the Rushes: Charnwood Brewery Tap Takeover on the last Thursday of the month, and Funhouse Comedy on first Thursday of the month Willowbrook: Curry & Pint Night, £10 from 5pm.
Live | Work | Play | Stay In June, we were joined for the second year by students from the Grads4Nottm scheme. Created by Nottingham City Council, NTU and Boots UK, Grads4Nottm is designed to support the graduate retention in Notts. We set our three students the task of tackling the biggest event on our calendar: the Robin Hood Beer and Cider Festival. Grads4Nottm is now in its 3rd year of offering NTU students a two-week work experience placement with a local business. Participating students have the opportunity to build on their employability skills, and experience the graduate job market in Nottingham. Last year 86% of the businesses said the work produced by NTU Talent was excellent or very good, and 72% said the scheme supported them in building brand awareness. Our marketing team is 100% NTU alumni who decided to stay and work in Nottingham, and of course across our pubs you’ll find tens more NTU students and graduates, so it didn’t take much to persuade us to get involved! Grads4Nottm states that the initiative connects local businesses with the thriving pool of Nottingham students and graduates-to-be. Well, seeing as we ended up
hiring one of our 2015 Grads4Nottm students, we’d say that’s definitely true… Emmie Studencki, Business Development Consultant at NTU says: “The scheme is a fantastic opportunity for employers to recruit NTU Talent to complete or kick-off a project, in an area where they have a skills shortage. Students and graduates apply to the challenge not knowing who the company is minimising brand bias and focusing on the skills and strengths of the student. This is an effective recruitment tool for employers that would like to attract the right candidate. This year we have had over 100 students placed across 34 businesses.”
For more information contact Grads4Nottm@ntu.ac.uk Pictured: Farah, Jonny and Hassan
It’s been an absolute pleasure to be joined by some of NTU’s bright young things, and we can’t wait for you to see what they came up with for the beer festival!
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Castle Rock Pubs ALEXANDRA HOTEL 203 Siddals Road, Derby DE1 2QE
Tel: 01332 293993
e-mail: alexandrahotel@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Alexandra Hotel T: @Alex_Pub_Derby
T
CASTLE ROCK TAP ROOM & KITCHEN
EMBANKMENT
Beer Consortium
282-284 Arkwright St, Nottingham NG2 2GR
Tel: 0115 986 4502
153-155 Woodthorpe Dr, Mapperley, NG3 5JL
CANALHOUSE
e-mail: breadandbitter@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Bread Bitter T: @breadandbitter
e-mail: canalhouse@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Canal House T: @canalhousebar
DERBY TUP
EAGLE
Tel: 0115 960 7541
387 Sheffield Rd, Chesterfield S41 8LS
First Floor Departure Lounge, East Midlands Airport Operated by Autogrill
e-mail: embankment@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Embankment Pub & Kitchen T: @EmbankmentNottm
Tel: 01246 454316
e-mail: derbytup@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Derby Tup T: @TheDerbyTup
FOREST TAVERN/MAZE 257 Mansfield Road, Nottingham NG1 3FT
Tel: 0115 947 5650
21 High Street, Lincoln LN5 8BD
T
email: info@themazerocks.com • web: www.themazerocks.com F: The Maze T: @themazenotts Beer Consortium
NEW BARRACK TAVERN
e-mail: lincolnshirepoacher@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Lincolnshire Poacher T: @lincpoacher
T
Lady Bay Inns
Tel: 0115 981 9995
e-mail: poppyandpint@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Poppy & Pint T: @PoppyandPint
601 Penistone Road, Sheffield S6 2GA
Tel: 0114 232 4225
e-mail: newbarracktavern@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: New Barrack Tavern T: @NewBarrack
4-6 Appletongate, Newark, Notts NG24 1JY
Tel: 01636 605820
e-mail: foxandcrown@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Fox & Crown Newark T: @TheFoxandCrown
NEWSHOUSE
123 Canal Street, Nottingham NG1 7HB
Tel: 0115 952 3061
e-mail: newshouse@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Newshouse T: @NewshouseNotts
T
(The Brewery Tap)
e-mail: stratfordhaven@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Stratford Haven T: @stratfordhaven
21 The Rushes, Loughborough LE11 5BE
12-14 Queensbridge Rd, Nottingham NG2 1NB
WILLOWBROOK
e-mail: swanintherushes@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Swan Rushes T: @swanrushes
e-mail: vatandfiddle@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Vat and Fiddle T: @VatandFiddle
e-mail: willowbrook@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Willowbrook T: @WillowbrookCRB
Tel: 0115 985 0611
13 Main Rd, Gedling, Nottingham NG4 3HQ
Tel: 0115 987 8596 T
All of our pubs follow the latest allergen legislation. Further details are available in each establishment.
Tenanted pub F: Castle Rock Brewery
Core Castle Rock Beers 3.4%
Brewed to be a traditional session ale with a malty bitter taste.
F: Sheriff Tipple T: @SheriffTipple
3.8%
A national award-winning blonde beer. American hops give a refreshingly crisp, citrus finish.
3.8%
A well balanced, award-winning dark mild with some bitterness. Full-bodied but not overly sweet.
4.3%
American-style red ale brewed with dark crystal malt, plus El Dorado and Kohatu hops.
T: @RedRidingHoodCR
4.4%
A full-bodied premium bitter of typical East Midlands character. Perfect bitter-sweet balance.
T
Tel: 0115 982 5981
SWAN IN THE RUSHES Tel: 01509 217014
VAT AND FIDDLE
Tel: 0115 947 4052
2 Stratford Rd, W. Bridgford, Nott’m NG2 6BA
12 Lawrence Street, York YO10 3WP
e-mail: rookandgaskill@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Rook and Gaskill T: @RookGaskillYork
46 St. Mary’s Gate, Nottingham NG1 1QA
STRATFORD HAVEN
ROOK AND GASKILL Tel: 01904 655450
T
FOX AND CROWN
e-mail: keanshead@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Kean’s Head T: @keanshead
LINCOLNSHIRE POACHER
Pierrepont Road, Lady Bay, Notts NG2 5DX
e-mail: eagle@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Eagle T: @TheEagleBoston
e-mail: horseandplough@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: Horse and Plough T: @HorseandPlough
161-163 Mansfield Road, Nott’m NG1 3FR
POPPY AND PINT
Tel: 01205 361116
KEAN’S HEAD
Tel: 01949 839313
Tel: 0115 941 1584
Tel: 0115 955 5060
25 Long Acre, Bingham, Notts NG13 8AF
Tel: 01522 521058
e-mail: goldeneagle@castlerockbrewery.co.uk F: The Golden Eagle Free House T: @GoldenEaglePub
48-52 Canal Street, Nottingham NG1 7EH
144 West Street, Boston, Lincs PE21 8RE
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HORSE AND PLOUGH
GOLDEN EAGLE
Breakthroughpoint Ltd
BREAD AND BITTER
4.7%
5.5%
Blonde and beautiful single malt golden ale refreshing on the palate.
A national champion. Strong India Pale Ale. Lots of everything so proceed with caution.
4.5%
Brewed with fresh Columbian coffee beans. Flavours of rich chocolate and coffee are in the nose, and the taste is smooth and lasting.
T: @CRBrewery
F: Elsie Mo T: @Elsiemocrb
F: Screech Owl T: @ScreechOwlCRB
For details of upcoming and future seasonal beers please see pages 4 & 5 in this issue
The next issue of Castle Rock Quarter is published in October