Thwaites shoots from the hop with 13 guns

Bang on trend, 13 Guns, the American IPA from the north of England independent family brewer Thwaites, is now available in a new 330ml can from Ball Packaging.

First brewed to coincide with American Independence Day in 2011, the 5.5% six-hopped beer has been a big hit this side of the pond and is already available in cask, Petainer keg and bottles.

The IPA is brewed in Crafty Dan – Daniel Thwaites' micro-brewery, which specialises in brewing distinctive, individual beers and trialling new recipes.

Lee Williams, marketing manager, said: “The 330ml can is already a popular pack format in countries where craft beer is more established and we see nothing from our experience to stop the 330ml can taking a foothold here too.

“As well as the benefits to beer quality from the reduction of light hitting the beer and reduced oxidisation compared to bottles, 330ml cans broaden the appeal to younger craft drinkers particularly for outdoor events and occasions.

“The last 12 months has been a seminal time for 13 Guns – its distinctive hopped flavours with piney, resinous notes received critical acclaim from beer reviewers from Day 1. A feature in the prestigious drinkers’ bible ‘1001 Beers You Must Try Before You Die’ has now been followed with the beer being shortlisted for Label of the Year at the International Beer Awards.”

The beer will retail for approximately £3.50 a can in the on-trade. Thwaites says it is currently in discussions with a number of customers to secure listings. The brew is intended for both UK and export markets.

Thwaites owns an estate of over 300 pubs, a small but growing group of characterful coaching inns and six four-star full service regional hotels and spas, which trade under the Shire Hotels banner.

In addition, Thwaites supplies a full range of drinks to many independently owned pubs, clubs and restaurants in the England and a wide range of bottled beers to most major supermarkets.

12 May 2014 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor