Manchester’s Joseph Holt brewery has released Rudolph Rosy Red for the festive season, with juicy cranberries in the recipe.
But the cranberries are not just a gimmick. They are about bringing a rounded fruitiness to the yuletide beer, says head brewer Phil Parkinson.
“This is the first time we’ve used cranberries in our seasonal beer,” he said. “They provide a wonderful colour, of course, but they also bring a bold, rounded, fruity flavour that perfectly complements the other seasonal ingredients, including lighter spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.”
Also contributing to the distinctive colour is the use of crystal rye which, thanks to a chemical reaction in the brewing process, produces a reddish pigment.
• Two new variants of Brinkhoff’s No 1 — a beer born from a brewing mishap in 1887 — are coming to UK bars, exclusively through wholesaler LWC.
The arrival of Brinkhoff’s No.1 Radler and 0.0%, both in 330ml bottles, comes at a pivotal moment for the UK beer market. The new variants respond directly to evolving consumer preferences and give licensees the choice between the original 5% ABV lager, on draught, the 2% ABV Radler, and the zero-alcohol version.
“These launches perfectly capture the direction of the market, world lagers leading the charge, and no/low alcohol continuing its rapid rise,” said Lee Williams, LWC’s beer and cider category manager.
“Radler brings a fresh, zesty twist, while No.1 0.0% delivers the full-flavour quality consumers expect – without the alcohol. Both uphold the heritage and brewing character that make Brinkhoff’s distinct. We’re proud to support our on‑trade partners with these products and the compelling story behind them.”
• Vault City has launched a Quaffable Treats Christmas selection box, inspired by the chocolates people reach for first in the tin during the festive season.
The selection comprises: Gold Standard (15% ABV), a decadent imperial stout inspired by hazelnut praline; Orange Chocolate Crunch (6% ABV), bringing orange zest and chocolate and honeycomb together; Cherry Cocoa Mocha Melt (8.2% ABV); Strawberry Coconut Crème Delight (6.4% ABV); and Truffle Berry Bliss (4.6% ABV) combining creamy white chocolate character with tart berries.
“Big flavours, full-sized cans, no cutting corners,” said Vault City founder Steven Hay-Smith. “If Christmas is for treating yourself, let’s actually treat ourselves. We wanted this to be the perfect gift for beer lovers, or anyone who just appreciates a proper festive indulgence.”
• UnBarred’s final drop of the year comprises a triple release. “This tasty trio is a great reflection of the variety we love over here at UnBarred, a little something for everyone!” says the brewer.
Brighton Strong is a heavy hitter at 6.5% ABV, a bold and characterful Belgian-style golden ale brewed with Brighton honey. Expect vibrant, effervescent notes of ripe stonefruit, candied peel, and a hint of spice from classic Belgian yeast, rounded by the sweetness of honey harvested by local Brighton beekeepers.
Black Rock (4.8% ABV) is a robust yet sessionable stout, enriched with the character of oak-soaked bourbon. “Our take on the classic Irish stout reveals enticing aromas of roasted coffee and dark chocolate,” says the brewer. On the palate, layers of espresso, caramel, and cocoa unfold into a smooth, velvety finish. Ageing on bourbon-soaked staves lends a gentle warmth, weaving in notes of whiskey and soft vanilla.
Finally, Pale Be Back (4% ABV) is a sessionable brew bursting with hop character. Expect aromas of citrus, stonefruit, and tropical zest, all carried on a crisp, clean malt base. On the palate, it’s zesty and vibrant, layering grapefruit, mango, and a hint of pine over a balanced bitterness.
• Track have dropped the final two beers in their series of 11th anniversary collaborations. Polarised is a 5.8% ABV West Coast pils created with Los Angeles’ Highland Park Brewery. It has been hopped with Mosaic, Nelson Sauvin, and Eggers Lily.
A 13.4% ABV 11th Birthday BA Stout is limited to just one per customer. “Our most decadent stout to date, and worth waiting for after being aged in a blend of five different bourbon and rum barrels,” says the brewer. “Fresh additions of cacao, vanilla, and ice cream take luxury to the next level.”
Also limited to one per customer is barrel-aged Manchester Christmas Ale (9.4%), a collaboration with the city’s four family breweries. “A robust Christmas Ale that we’ve tucked away in barrels to be released each year. Best drank and enjoyed with the people you love.”
• Twelve Beers of Christmas is a collection of specials and six collaborations from Left Handed Giant, akin to a smaller Advent calendar. From pales to export porter and feisty IPAs, there’s something for most palates.
The collaboration buddies are: Woodshedding, Bluntrock, Two Flints, Floc, DosKiwis, and Track.
• West Ham United and the club’s official beer partner, BrewDog, have collaborated on Claret & Brew, an amber lager. It was launched on Sunday at the Bridge Two bar at the London Stadium ahead of the club’s Premier League clash with Liverpool.
Coming in at 4.5% ABV, it is packed with rich malt character, balanced by hints of citrus and a subtle floral aroma. A snappy bitterness rounds it off with a crisp, refreshing finish.
It has received the seal of approval from club legend Carlton Cole. He took his role very seriously, going as far as visiting BrewDog to oversee and even lend a hand with the brewing process.
