Shepherd Neame's Latest Brew That's Big On Taste

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame is delighted to unveil its latest limited-edition brew, Table Beer (2.7% ABV).

Light golden in appearance, Table Beer offers delicate malts and fruit on the palate with hints of citrus and a slight spicy, herbal finish.

It is the fifth beer crafted in the Small Batch Brewery, a 15-barrel kit at the heart of its historic Faversham site which was commissioned last year. In comparison, its main brewhouse has a minimum batch size of 110 barrels.

Drawing inspiration from medieval small beers once brewed and enjoyed in Britain, a table beer is, historically, its continental counterpart. Table beers were often brewed in French or Belgian farmhouses to offer nutrition and hydration for the workers. The name derives from the lower alcohol lending itself to be enjoyed by all around the table at communal gatherings.

A combination of three malts – Ale, Crystal and Caramalt – allows Shepherd Neame’s new Table Beer to retain a fuller body despite its lower ABV. Hops are added at three stages – Challenger for bitterness, Saaz and US Centennial at late hopping, and dry hopping with Hallertau Tradition – crafting the gentle flavours.

Brewing Manager, Rupert Hodgkins, who was instrumental to the brew, said:

“Following on from our popular limited-edition Saison (5.5% ABV), released last month, we continued the theme of brewing traditional continental styles with our Table Beer."

“Big on taste and refreshment, the lower ABV of Table Beer offers discerning drinkers a lighter alternative to our core range. We think we have struck the balance between flavour and mouthfeel just right for all to enjoy a pint or two.”

Table Beer will be available at 20 of Shepherd Neame’s managed pubs from Monday (November 11), including the Jamaica Wine House, London; Pier Five, Chatham; Royal Crown, Rochester, Market House, Maidstone; Duke of Cumberland, Whitstable; Bricklayers Arms, Bromley; Botany Bay Hotel, Broadstairs; and The Limes, Faversham, for a limited time.