The latest addition to Greene King’s 2025 Fresh Cask Releases calendar, Radical Hoptimist boasts a slightly sweet and smooth amber malt base, balanced by tropical and citrus flavours.
Described as a “tropical fruit sensation” and bursting with flavours of passionfruit, peach and mango the hop-forward brew will be available for pubs to order throughout August and September.
Drinkers’ preferences
The amber cask was inspired by Jungle Punch, a fruity juice ale created by Greene King’s first wave of brewing apprentices a few years ago, which was only released as a small brew.
While the original beer recipe was 7.5% ABV and intensely hoppy, the brewers at Greene King have worked to recreate a beer that is inspired by the flavours of Jungle Punch but tailored to align with current drinkers’ preferences.
Greene King technical brewer Alan Fulcher said: “When it came to creating one of the summer brews for this year’s calendar, I remembered Jungle Punch and how much I enjoyed my tasting of it and decided to use it as inspiration for Radical Hoptimist, as it fit the brief perfectly.
“This ale brings all the fruity and hoppy flavours of craft keg beer into a smooth amber cask beer, so it’s definitely something different to have on the bar to stand alongside more traditional and permanent cask styles this summer.”
Limited-edition beers
Last month, the Suffolk-based pub operator and brewer released Peach Cooler, a 3.4% ABV session ale said to have hints of honey and stone fruits with a light malt base, also as part of its Fresh Cask Releases calendar for 2025.
Greene King’s annual Fresh Cask Releases calendar includes 15 limited-edition beers available at select times throughout the year celebrating seasons, sporting occasions, and collaborations with other brewers.
The brews are available for all outlets to order, including independent venues, in both firkin and pin formats (36-pint containers).
