Churchill Honourable Pale Ale

This 4.2% ABV pale "ale for your finest hour" is from Oxfordshire Ales of Marsh Gibbon, Bicester, Oxfordshire, England. It is made with natural mineral water from Blenheim Palace, Sir Winston's place of birth. It uses malt from England's oldest floor maltings (the traditional, manual way of preparing malt for brewing used before the Industrial Revolution, now an artisinal practice), and Kent Goldings hops which are traditionally grown on the Weald of Kent which can be overlooked from Chartwell, the Churchill's family home. Sales of this beer support charities associated with preserving the heritage and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill.

The beer pours a deep but clear copper and amber. It is well-carbonated. There is about a half-inch of off-white to very light tan head. The aroma is malty, toasted, a bit of caramel, a touch of nuttiness, along with orange and stone fruits. The taste follows the aromas quite directly, a nice blend of stone fruits and malt notes. It is dry and moderately bitter on the finish. It is easy drinking. This is a very enjoyable English pale ale.