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The Norfolk-based brewery is set to release Hopotiki Pale 4.2% ABV for September to tie in with Cask Ale Week and all casks made have been sold and assigned to pubs across the region and farther afield before the first pint had even been drawn.
Woodforde’s described the ale as “a light-bodied pale ale with a distinct tropical aroma and a zesty dry finish”.
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Hopotiki Pale’s fruity flavours come thanks to the three New Zealand hops used in the brewing process: Motueka, Nelson Sauvin and Nectaron, and is the brainchild of Woodforde’s brewing manager Bruce Ash.
Cracking pint
He said: “Hopotiki Pale is a cracking pint – and something completely different to what we’ve offered before at Woodforde’s.
“We’ve experimented with New Zealand hops in lots of our seasonal ales but never have we brewed something purely as a celebration of these famous, sought-after ingredients. It really is a flavoursome drop.”
The beer’s name is a nod to the Ōpōtiki District, an area of New Zealand’s North Island famed for its rivers and sandy beaches – just like Nelson’s County.
Ash added: “In Norfolk, we’re renowned for our barley but in New Zealand it’s all about the hops.
Something new
“By bringing these three styles together, we’ve created a beer that’s bold in flavours like pine, stone fruit, lemon, lime and tropical fruit.
“We’ll always be the Taste of Norfolk – but it’s great to have the opportunity to introduce something new to our customers and we’re confident it’ll prove a hit behind the bar.”
The brewery is also celebrating successful sales across its cask range, including monthly increases in sales of its Supreme Champion Beer of Britain, Wherry.
As with all Woodforde’s seasonals, Hopotiki Pale is available exclusively in cask at pubs for one month only – meaning beer fans will have to act quick to get their hands on a pint at their local pub.
- Is your pub doing anything for Cask Ale Week 2026? Do you want to give your opinion on Cask Ale Week 2026 and the positive benefits it gives to your site? If so, email gary.lloyd@wrbm.com with the details and include a picture or two.
