The Burton Union set gives a unique character to beers made on it and it was the first time the brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery had used the piece of equipment.
In 2024, Oliver played a pivotal role in assisting Thornbridge with the rescue and restoration of an historic Burton Union set, which was once a central piece of equipment for brewing in Great Britain.
Now operational at Thornbridge’s brewery in Bakewell, Derbyshire, it stands as the sole functioning example of its kind anywhere in the world, the brewery stated.
Since its installation, Thornbridge has used the Burton Union to explore heritage styles and innovative collaborations.
Complex layers
This new release marks the first beer brewed on the system with Oliver himself: a Strong Dark Mild 5.5% ABV crafted with Maris Otter, premium Crystal and Chocolate malts, and West African Fonio – an ancient grain that is claimed to contribute creaminess and subtle fruit character.
Dark brewing sugars further enhance the beer with complex layers of caramel and richness.
Proceeds from the limited-edition cask beer will benefit The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling (MJF), which is a non-profit organisation that funds technical education and career advancement for people of colour in the brewing and distilling industries.
For every pint and can of this beer sold, 10p will be donated to the foundation.
“We were incredibly excited to brew with Garrett using the Union,” said Simon Webster, co-founder and CEO of Thornbridge Brewery. “To combine this brewing milestone with the opportunity to support such an important cause makes it all the more meaningful.
Incredibly fortunate
“The Burton Union system is an historic piece of brewing equipment, and we’re incredibly fortunate to operate the only working set in the world today.
“Brewing with it is certainly more complex but our team has fully embraced the challenge. It brings a distinctive character to the beer and offers a truly unique point of difference.”
Oliver added: “I’m 36 years into my brewing career and yet this still counts as one of the most personally significant beers I’ve had the opportunity to brew.
“My journey into brewing started with British cask beers at the pub, and to brew on this singular and wondrous beast is a great privilege.”
Dark Strong Mild cask beer will be available in Thornbridge bars and free trade pubs around the UK.
