Subscriber login Close [x]
remember me
You are not logged in.

Old Speckled Hen brewers unveil super premium ale

Published:  23 September, 2008

In what must be one of the most exciting brand developments of bottled ale, brewers of the much loved "Old Speckled Hen" have just launched a new vintage oaked, super premium version of the beer.

In what must be one of the most exciting brand developments of bottled ale, brewers of the much loved "Old Speckled Hen" have just launched a new vintage oaked, super premium version of the beer.

"Old Crafty Hen" is a remarkable blend of two spectacular beers, the inimitable "Old Speckled Hen" and the absolutely unique 'Old 5X', a dark, fruity 12% abv ale that has matured for up to two years in 100 barrel oak vats. At 6.5%abv, "Old Crafty Hen" is a premium strength beer with a wonderful story to tell.

Head brewer, John Bexon says: "This method of brewing, maturing and blending goes back centuries but is now unique to Greene King. Even though I say so myself, it has worked perfectly for "Old Crafty Hen". The traditional toffee notes you associate with "Old Speckled Hen" combine with the concentrated flavours of 'Old 5X' to produce an eruption of fruity, raisin notes. This makes for a beautifully balanced, rich and rounded, premium strength beer that takes its characters both from "Old Speckled Hen" and 'Old 5X' (with its hint of aromatic resin from the period of maturation in oak)."

Greene King's take home director, Neil Jardine says: "We've always thought there was a great opportunity to extend the "Old Speckled Hen" brand, but have been fanatical about ensuring that whatever we do adds real, as well as perceived, value to an already great beer. For many years, we've been under pressure from beer enthusiasts to do more with our unique 'Old 5X' and it is true that it is an extraordinary ale. By blending the two, our brewers have created a genuinely exceptional beer.

"We have been supported by Sainsbury's and Tesco every step of the way: they have been just as convinced as we were that beer lovers who are looking for something truly premium, something really special will just love "Old Crafty Hen" - and very early indications are that they most certainly do."

Source: Consolidated on behalf of Old Crafty Hen

Keywords: