London Brewery’s New Batch

It’s always a good day when a new beer comes out. And when two come along at the same time, it’s twice as good. That’s simple maths. Luckily, Nicholson’s Pubs feel the same way, thus they have brought out two new beauties for you to sample: ‘Thornbridge Frank as Apollo’ (4.6% ABV) and ‘Nethergate Three Mills Pale Ale’ (3.9% ABV).

The very model of a modern major pub chain, Nicholson’s origins lie back in 1872 when founder William Nicholson purchased the Three Mills distillery located on the River Lea in the East End of London. Within this first home, the company produced Lamplighter Gin until 1941, at which point distilling ceased due World War II rationing.

However, this run of gin making would only be a sideline, as in 1873 – only one year after the initial Three Mills purchase – Nicholson began revitalisation of a motley crew of character pubs that has today grown into the Nicholson’s Pubs empire. Now with more than 80 pubs nationwide, over a half of these still lie within their historical Big Smoke home.

Anyway, back to the ales themselves. As invitee to the concurrent launch of both beverages, I found myself in the presence of those responsible for the genesis of each ale, and their respective tales of how each came about. As one might expect, the concept of a lecture about beer could itself drive you to drink, but I was actually quite intrigued as each speaker took to the stage.  For instance, proud father figure of Frank as Apollo, Paul Carruthers, is not just any old ale maker; he is the prestigious recipient of the 2011 Great British Home Brew Challenge by Thornbridge, Nicholson’s Pubs and Brew UK.

Thus Paul is eminently qualified for such a career choice, and upon tasting the Frank as Apollo ale, it was clear of his skill. There was a slightly sweet but dry finish with a stealthy orangey twang which added depth, all wrapped up in the nectar of those ‘Apollo’ hops. Overall, a good drinker that could work all year round.

Coming from a slightly different background, the Nethergate Three Mills Pale Ale is a new-to-market collaboration which has been crafted to both celebrate the memory and prowess of William Nicholson (and The Three Mills humble beginnings), as well as recognising the Nethergate’s recent award as Good Pub Guide Brewery of the Year 2012.

Although not as tasty as the Frank, the blondish ale offered an overall more zesty, refreshing flavour, and would likely make a better springtime option, perhaps slightly more chilled.

As always, you’d be crazy to take my word for it, so I suggest you pop along and try them both, as I’m sure one or the other will take your fancy. Make it quick, though, as both ales will only have a guaranteed place at the pumps for the next three months.

Like you need encouraging…

For news and information on Nicholson’s Pubs visit their website.