Named after the year Peter Walker patented the Burton Union system, 1838 has been brewed exclusively on the historic set at Thornbridge.
The new pale ale has been made by blending Maris Otter malt with Savinjski Goldings hops to create a full-bodied beer with a light amber hue.
It has been described as boasting rich and biscuity malt flavours, balanced by floral hop notes and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Popular style
Thornbridge co-founder and CEO Simon Webster told The Morning Advertiser (The MA):“This style of beer was historically the most popular to be brewed on the Union system and we’re really excited to bring it back. We know it will prove popular.”
Thornbridge has planned to officially unveil 1838 at The Campaign For Real Ale’s (CAMRA) Great British Beer Festival Winter, held from Wednesday 12 to Saturday 15 February at Magna in Rotherham, South Yorkshire.
As part of the launch, Thornbridge and beer writer Roger Protz will host a beer tasting at the festival on Thursday 13 February.
A ‘Discovery Bar’ will also be held at the event on Friday 14 February, while a ‘Brewery Bar’ featuring both cask and keg options will be in place throughout the festival.
Brewing heritage
The new brew will be made available to the free-trade after the festival and will be added to the brewer’s core range, which includes Jaipur and Green Mountain.
In 2024, the Derbyshire-based brewer worked to preserve the historic piece of British brewing heritage, which was first introduced in the Victorian era.
The company transported the equipment to Bakewell, where it has been in active use ever since, including for a special batch of Jaipur and collaborations with renowned breweries Odell Brewing and The Kernel.
Following the installation, Thornbridge introduced The Union, a classic-style IPA crafted with British ingredients, into their core range in both bottle and cask format.
