The George Inn Ale
Greene King / Morland Brewery

 

Actually Morland's Original, brewed to the old Abingdon recipe in Bury St Edmunds. This is a sweet best-bitter style, reddish in colour. Found at the George Inn, but potentially available elsewhere - although Greene King are pushing their deeply inferior House Bitter as the house ale of choice in most pubs.

Strong notes of banana on nose and finish. Sweet caramel and biscuit on the tongue. Best on the main bar, poured through a long-neck spout and northern sparkler, as per the old manager Tom's specifications - somewhat lacking in head cohesion when poured from a short-necked spout.

Absolutely bang on for an archetypal best bitter, without the notes of dishwater and vomit that dog many newer ales.

Handpump pint at, of course, The George.

A: Clear deep amber body with a thin, clumpy, off-white head. Simple and attractive.

S: Sweet nutty malt and faint herbal hops. As simple as a Bitter gets, and enjoyable.

T: Follows the nose nose - malt-forward with nuts and caramel followed by some bittersweet herbal hops on the finish. A touch of fruitiness. Tasty.

M: Pretty flat, slightly sticky medium body. Not its strong suit.

O: A proper pint, and while nothing special it was a fitting accompaniment to (and ingredient in) a lovely steak & ale pie at this historic pub. Good times.

Cheers!