Discovering 1838: A Unique Journey Through Beer Heritage

You've got to try Thornbridge's new beer, 1838! It’s a nostalgic nod to brewing history that truly shines. Can't wait for your thoughts!

Brewing with History: The Story Behind 1838

Have you ever sipped a beer and felt the weight of history in your glass? Well, I recently had that experience with Thornbridge Brewery’s latest offering, aptly named 1838. This isn’t just another pale ale; it’s a homage to Britain’s rich brewing heritage, brewed on the historic Burton Union kit saved by Thornbridge in 2024. The first time I heard about this beer, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement; it’s like drinking a piece of history!

At 4.5% ABV, this pale ale will be unveiled at CAMRA’s Great British Beer Festival Winter from February 12-15 at Magna in Rotherham. When I learned about its debut, my curiosity piqued—what makes this brew so special? The answer lies not just in its ingredients but also in the story behind the Union system itself.

The Legacy of the Burton Union System

Let me take you back to 1838, the year Peter Walker patented the Burton Union system. This method revolutionized brewing by allowing yeast to flow freely while retaining its effectiveness—a game changer for beer production! When Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company decided to retire four remaining union sets at their Burton-on-Trent brewery, it felt like a tragedy for beer enthusiasts everywhere.

Fortunately, Thornbridge stepped in and salvaged this iconic equipment. CEO Simon Webster shared his vision with me: “This was always going to be the beer that we would brew most on The Union.” Just imagine—brewing using technology that has been around since before many of us were born!

A Taste of Tradition: What to Expect from 1838

When I finally got my hands on 1838, I was eager to dive into its profile. Brewed exclusively on this historic set, it features Maris Otter malt paired with Savinjski Goldings hops, creating a delightful balance of flavors. As I took my first sip, I noticed the light amber hue glistening in my glass—a beautiful sight! Its rich biscuity malt flavors complemented by floral hop notes create an experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.

The crisp finish is exactly what you want from a pale ale—refreshing yet satisfying. Webster believes it will resonate well with drinkers, and after tasting it myself, I couldn’t agree more! This is not just another craft beer; it’s an invitation to appreciate how far we’ve come in brewing while respecting where we’ve been.

Why You Should Care About Beer Heritage

In today’s fast-paced world of craft brewing, where trends come and go as quickly as seasonal releases, it’s easy to forget our roots. But beers like 1838 remind us why we should care about the traditions behind our favorite brews. They connect us to our past and tell stories through flavor and technique.

So next time you’re selecting a beer at your local pub or shop, consider reaching for one that has a story like Thornbridge’s latest creation. It adds depth to your experience and allows you to savor every sip as if you’re partaking in a legacy.

FAQs About Thornbridge’s 1838

What is the ABV of 1838?

• 1838 has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5%, making it approachable for most drinkers.

Where can I find this beer?

• You can enjoy 1838 at CAMRA’s Great British Beer Festival Winter or check local distributors once it’s officially launched!

What ingredients are used in 1838?

• The beer features Maris Otter malt combined with Savinjski Goldings hops, giving it unique flavor profiles.

How does 1838 differ from other pale ales?

• It’s brewed on traditional Union equipment which enhances its historical significance and flavor complexity.

Photo by Elevate on Unsplash