THEAKSTON’S BEST BITTER
Theakston
UK, 3.8% ABV
The T&R Theakston Brewery is located in the town of Masham, North Yorkshire, which is handy for this reviewer as it’s just around the corner from my house. There is something really special about a beer only travelling 500 yards before going into your glass – a fresh beer certainly makes a better beer in this case. T&R Theakston was founded in 1827 by Robert Theakston and John Wood at The Black Bull pub in Masham. The Theakston family owned the brewery until 1987, when it was acquired by Scottish & Newcastle. But, heroically, four Theakston brothers bought the brewery back in 2004, returning it to family ownership. Theakston’s ales are widely available on draught in pubs in the north of England, and in bottles in supermarkets around the UK and in Germany and the USA. Best Bitter is the most readily-available of the five cask ales produced by Theakston, and is often described as a session beer, that is, several pints can be drunk over a ‘session’ of time without completely intoxicating the drinker. It’s not too strong, yet a satisfying beer to drink. It does have a pleasant flavour – quite hoppy and distinctive, leaving an agreeable taste on the pallet. It is a dark gold colour, darker than most bitters, however, if you’re a real bitter enthusiast, it will probably disappoint as it’s only mildly bitter. Theakston also produces XB, Black Bull, Traditional Mild, and Old Peculier, but if you don’t want a heavy night then Best Bitter is a safe and pleasant bet. HC
