Heineken temperature survey reveals cold facts on beers

Pubs are failing to serve beer at the recommended temperatures despite the advent of extra-cold technology.

That is the finding of a survey of 75 pubs and bars conducted by Heineken, which has begun a £500,000 roll-out of new fonts and glasses that it says will ensure the beer is served "perfectly chilled" every time.

Major brewers say technology for extra-cold beers ensures they are dispensed at between 2°C and 5°C, depending on the brand.

But the average temperature in Heineken's survey was 6°C for extra-cold brands and 8°C for non-extra-cold variants.

In addition, bottled beers were served at an average temperature of 10°C.

Heineken UK director of sales Richard Bradbury said: "A lot of people have been hyping up extra-cold. The reality is that consumers don't automatically get extra-cold. What consumers have is 'not warm'."

Bradbury said brewers have in the past been "less rigorous in encouraging compliance" with their cooling technology.

He said Heineken has a draught beer service team that checks all venues stocking the brand at least every six months to ensure that it is served at the correct temperature of 4°C to 6°C.