When coming to a decision on how to rate a beer, I personally think that the aroma and flavour characteristics are the most important. If it looks good then great although I have enjoyed many hazy or cloudy pints of cask-conditioned ale. The UK drinks with their eyes too much. Another factor when rating a beer that creeps into some peoples thoughts is what state the brewer is in terms of the business side. Should a large multinational brewer with no artisanal qualities be marked down even if the taste of their beer is great? Likewise, should a small craft brewer with his DIY sensibilties be marked up for not giving in to the lucrative corporation? Adnams are none of these, they have embarked upon a marketing campaign to try and sell their beer. I think that’s quite acceptable. Their beers have not declined. This new beer, Spindrift, was brewed (I imagine) to try and tap into the ’I don’t want to drink traditional bitter, but still want flavour’ market. Great. It’s served chilled from a keg. Great. It’s brewed to be served that way. And it’s damn tasty too. It actually reminded me of Duvel in aroma, there is a great hoppiness and citrus character. Adnams’ classic full malt body is evident and along with the hops imparts a clean, refreshing taste that lingers, but not for too long. In short, preconceptions really are not much use. Judge the beer for what it is. Thank you Adnams for brewing a great non-cask-conditioned ale, this country needs more like this and Meantime. Maybe one day we can call this real ale? I’m quite sure I could feel and taste something while I was drinking it.

Pours a golden colour ale. nose is promosing with apple and malty notes but the body is not held together well. Overly hopped for my liking and the maltiness and sugar seemed at odds. Improves only slightly on warming up but another disappointing release from Adnams.

Pint at The Cat & Mutton, Broadway Market, Hackney. This place leans towards the ’gastro’ rather than the ’pub’ - they didn’t have any cask ales on, so my Dad and me had to settle for this, and it wasn’t that bad. It tastes and looks more like a Golden Ale that an ESB - Golden body, fine head. The flavour is sweet and malty with hops in the back ground. Think Fullers Honey Dew. I wouldn’t chose this above Broadside or another of their cask beers, its too cold for starters, but on a warm day and with no other choice it was fine.

On tap at the Hog in Armour, Norwich. I think this is a wonderful addition to the Adnams range particularly for the summer. While i love ale, the thought of a warm beer in summer puts most people right off. Reckon this will be a great midway beer to tempt more traditional larger drinkers to try ale instead, particularly for the combination of taste & refreshingness.