Norfolk’s largest brewery is celebrating the 45th anniversary of its famous Wherry ale, inviting the company’s original owner to raise a glass at its brewery tap.
Left to right are: Craig Bennett (head brewer), Mike Betts (former director), Ray Ashworth (Woodforde’s founder), Paul Sullivan (Woodforde’s CEO), Bruce Ash (brewing manager), and Alec Williamson (head of brewing, planning and ops)
Woodforde’s Brewery, based in Woodbastwick, released the amber ale onto the market in 1981, and it has become a firm favourite with drinkers ever since. The 3.8% ABV amber ale has won a host of awards over the years, including being crowned the Champion Beer of Britain.
“Wherry is the beer we are best known for, and a brew we are particularly proud of,” said Woodforde’s chief executive Paul Sullivan. “Since the first pint was poured, it has been a Woodforde’s favourite for good reason — it’s a beautiful, well-rounded ale, with a crisp, clean finish that really hits the spot.”
To celebrate the anniversary, Ray Ashworth, the brewery’s original owner, was invited for a pint and a pub lunch at the Fur and Feather, just yards from the brewery. His visit was made all the merrier with news that Wherry had won yet another award as Norfolk CAMRA’s best session bitter.
Ray said it was “great” to take the walk down memory lane. He added: “When Paul invited me to the brewery to celebrate 45 years since the founding of Woodforde’s, and the very first pints of Wherry being brewed, I couldn’t quite believe that it was so far back in time.
“I remember the brew day quite well, and it was a testament to all the folk involved in setting the brewery up that it went so smoothly.
“I never imagined that Wherry would be such the success that it is, having won two national awards, and learning today that it has won yet another award as a best session bitter beer.”
