A limited-edition 9.5% ABV vintage ale, inspired by a former favourite from the brewery’s archives, has been launched by Wells & Co to mark the birthday of founder Charles Wells.
Named Old Bedford Ale, the beer celebrates the heritage of the Bedford-based brewer and reflects the spirit of innovation and adaptability that has helped the independent family business thrive across five generations.
Revived as part of Wells & Co’s 150th anniversary celebrations, the beer pays tribute to both the company’s brewing legacy and its hometown of Bedford.
Founded in 1876, Wells & Co has evolved through generations of change while remaining proudly family owned. Today, it operates more than 160 pubs across the UK and France, and continues brewing from Brewpoint, its state-of-the-art brewery in Bedford.
“Adaptability has been the defining characteristic of this business since Charles Wells founded it in 1876,” said Peter Wells, chief executive of Wells & Co, and great-great-grandson of Charles Wells.
Business founder Charles Wells
“Every generation has had to respond to new challenges, new opportunities, and changing customer expectations. The ability to evolve while staying true to our values has been critical to our long-term success. For us, heritage isn’t about preserving the past, it’s about taking the values and lessons that built the business and applying them to a changing world.”
Originally brewed in the late 20th century, Old Bedford Ale has been revived using 100% British malts and hops. The 9.5% ABV vintage ale delivers rich toffee and burnt sugar notes, balanced by a firm bitterness. It combines a traditional flavour profile with an approach designed to appeal to today’s ale drinkers.
“Old Bedford Ale is a fitting tribute to our founder because it reflects something that has remained constant throughout our history,” said Wells. “Charles Wells was Bedford’s original entrepreneur and brewer, and more than 150 years later we’re still brewing independently in the town he called home.
“Respecting tradition has always mattered, but so has being prepared to do something new. That combination of heritage and innovation is as important today as it was 150 years ago.”
