Classic Ales Six Pack--Brakspear Bitter

Described in the label as "double dropped Oxfordshire ale", Brakspear Bitter comes in a beautiful old world 500mL bottle that goes on to explain that the "unique Brakspear 'Double Drop' system"gives this bitter a "robust secondary fermentation to produce this remarkably flavoursome ale". All of which is to say, I have no idea what "Double Drop" means or does. That said, B.B. is a stunningly attractive little brew--clear, copper, and covered in a thick cream head. It contains a woefully anemic 3.4% alcohol and hails from the Brakspear Brewing Co., in Oxfordshire, England.


Brakespear Bitter has an aroma that waltzes between rich malt and metallic bitterness. For such an understrength ale, there is an admirable dose of flavour and balance. This beer kicks off with a slightly sweet, substantially malty taste, and delves into a copper mine of easy bitterness.

At 3.4%, this beer is easy to drink. It has a relative abundance of flavour. I'd have liked more booze, more bitterness, and a smidge less copper.  However, it proved to be a pretty fine little ale. Not special, but reliable.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10.