The 2026 calendar features new brews alongside the return of fan favourites and increased choice in pump clip designs in a bid to drive guest engagement.
Fireside, the 4.5% ruby winter ale, and Abbot Reserve, the 6.5% premium ale, will be first to be released, available across the early months of the year.
Demand for cask
Making its annual return in February is the rugby‑inspired Scrumdown. The 4.1% fresh golden ale will be available from the end of January till the end of April.
Greene King is also introducing an alternative pump clip design for Scrumdown with a Spring‑themed twist. Customers will receive both pump clips with each order, allowing them to select the option that best suits their venue and drinkers.
All 12 limited-edition seasonal cask beers will be available in firkins and pins (36‑pint units).
Last year, the Suffolk-based pub operator and brewer sold more than 2m pints of seasonal cask beer, which it said demonstrated demand for fresh releases within the category.
Exciting new brews
Festive favourite Rocking Rudolph delivered a strong performance during its most recent run, surpassing 2024 sales. The uplift was driven in part by the introduction of a new pump clip design, the brewer said.
Greene King’s Abbot Ale also saw values sales rise by 2.2% last year, reaching £46.9m, making the brew the fourth best-selling cask beer on the Drinks List 2026.
Head brewer Jack Palmer said: “Our 2026 Fresh Cask Releases calendar builds on the success of our portfolio last year, bringing back much‑loved favourites alongside a few exciting new brews and seasonal celebrations.
“By continuing to invest in seasonal quality cask and offering a rotating range, we’re helping our customers create fresh interest in cask beer throughout the year and deliver great experiences for drinkers.”
