152. Ringwood Brewery Old Thumper

I really was not sure what to expect from this one as it is an English beer brewed locally by contract with Shipyard Brewing Company in Portland, ME. The beer pours a nice copper with thin white head that has great retention. Aroma has a bit of caramel and yeast. Flavor was a solid Extra Special / ESB and went very well with the pizza I enjoyed last night. This was better than I expected however not in the top tier of beers. You would not be disappointed by this beer but at the same time probably would not go out of your way to find it again.

Pros: None

Cons: None

Alcohol Content: 5.8% ABV
Calories: ???
IBU (Bitterness): ??

Rating: 

Brewers Website: Ringwood Brewery

Brewers Description: Ringwood's most iconic beer was first brewed in late 1979 without a name. A competition in the local press inspired Joe Leedham from Broadstone, Dorset to come up with a suitable suggestion! It has won many awards but is best remembered for being voted Champion beer of Britain by Camra in 1988. Nose - Peppery, spicy aroma with hint of apples. Palate - Luscious balance of grain and hop in the mouth, bitter sweet finish with delicate fruit notes. Comments - Warm, rounded yet surprisingly delicate pale strong beer. Awards - The bottled version won gold at the British Bottlers' Institute Competition in 1996 and silver in 1998.