Music-inspired guest ales at Greene King

Six new brews, three of which have music-themed names, feature as part of the newly-launched 2013 guest ale calendar from UK brewer and pub retailer Greene King.

Yardbird (4.0% ABV), Twisted Wheel (4.0% ABV), and Hurdy Gurdy (4.1% ABV) will all be available in three-month periods throughout the year, with Yardbird currently on sale until the end of March.

Inspired by bold American IPAs and named after US jazz legend Charlie ‘Bird’ Parker, Yardbird is full of hops and has been crafted to deliver a lasting fruity flavour.

Twisted Wheel is a nod to the 50^th anniversary of the famous Manchester northern soul venue of the same name which gained notoriety as the country’s first Mod club. Branded with a roundel design and union flag, this fresh, light ale will be available between April and June and includes a twist of ginger and a zip of spice.

Hurdy Gurdy – a mellow, cloudy, wheat ale – follows throughout July, August and September, while dark and distinctive porter 1799 follows in October until the end of the year.

Dom South, MD Greene King Brewing and Brands said: “Hosting guest ales alongside permanent cask brands is a great way of generating interest and choice. That’s why we’re always looking to innovate with different tastes and new ideas to support pubs in keeping drinkers coming back for more. These new brews key into popular seasonal and cultural trends and provide great alternatives to our regular favourites.”

Also included in the Bury-St-Edmunds-based brewer’s 16-strong seasonal line up for 2013 are: Caritas in April, Bohemian in June and Revolver in August – the latter of which has been brewed in honour of the 50^th anniversary of the Beatles.

The calendar also includes much-loved old favourites including Abbot Reserve in December and Ale Fresco in May.

17 February 2013 - Felicity Murray