Monday, February 2, 2015

Earl Grey IPA, mmm?

Earl Grey is my favourite variety of tea, when I got a job at Real Ale in Twickenham, S.W. London and noticed an Earl Grey IPA on the shelf I was intrigued.

My recent term of unemployment didn't last very long, I was hoping for a bit longer but quickly went from bar work to working in the best independent beer retailer for two years running. As I really want to get into brewing and with this being in the same industry so it seems an ideal stepping stone. Also it gets me in contact with numerous breweries and brewers all over the country along with plenty of free samples and hopefully endless tastings.

After my first couple of shifts and having the Earl Grey IPA in my mind and seeing it on the shelf I bought a bottle to take home and try. I was told to stick it in the fridge and drink it slightly chilled, so I did.

It is an elegant dark brown/black bottle with simple and clear white font. Earl Grey IPA is clearly visible from across a room. At 6.8% it is on the strong side but any decent IPA really should be.

I'm not saying I'm a connoisseur of Earl Grey but I have tried a lot from all over the world and do drink it on a daily basis. This means that I feel I should be able to detect the subtle Bergamot flavour and aroma, no matter how delicate.
The beer definitely had it but only very slightly. I suppose you wouldn't want it there so obviously and overpowering that it smacks in the nose, I don't know if I was expecting more or what. However, as far as IPA's go, it was most certainly one of the finest I have ever tried. Generously hopped and velvety smooth with an almost spring like refreshing palate.


My introduction to Marble beers has almost inspired a trip to the brewery in Manchester.

Marble Brewery, maybe one day I may get the chance!

The best shop to buy beer in the UK

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