Greene King releases Queen’s birthday “Purple Reign” beer - BEFORE Prince death announced

The pub company said it had taken partial inspiration for the beer – a golden ale with an ABV of 4.2% - from the song Purple Rain. However, on the day it was released, Prince was reported dead at the age of 57.

A spokesperson for Greene King said: “This ale is intended as a tribute to our longest reigning monarch on a milestone occasion, with a respectful nod to the classic song by the artist Prince.

Tragic

“In light of the tragic news, we hope that these intentions continue to be understood by our guests.”

The company added it had chosen the name for the beer as the colour purple had long been associated with royalty and was the colour of choice for previous landmark birthday celebrations as well as first class stamps created in her honour last year.

Recipe

The beer’s recipe features sweet pale malt from East Anglian Barley and English Challenger, Pilgrim and First Gold Hops.

Despite the circumstances, Greene King confirmed the beer would still roll out across the UK on-trade as planned.

It will be available on cask in Greene King Locals, Taylor Walker, Chef & Brewer and Old English Inns sites from the end of April onwards.