Shepherd Neame has unveiled Table Beer (2.7% ABV) as its latest limited edition brew, the fifth beer crafted in their 15-barrel Small Batch Brewery.
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 draws 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 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.
Striking a balance
“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,” said brewing manager Rupert Hodgkins.
“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 is available at 20 of Shepherd Neame’s managed pubs from today.
