Beer # 14 Duchy Originals Organic Old Ruby Ale 1905

Welcome back beer fans. Tonight I continue in my series of holiday gifts this time a birthday gift (my friends sure know what I like). Duchy Originals is a line of products (food and beverage, not just beer) by Waitrose, a large British "Supermarket" chain. Waitrose has dedicate itself to a partnership in organic and traditional produce through the "Good Food Charter" Waitrose Good Food Charter The product line also serves as a major fundraiser for the "Prince's Charities" and the bottles are marked with the "Ich Dien" (above right)  The three feathers in a crown with the Latin phrase meaning "In God' which is a symbol of Wales and The Prince of Wales. Waitrose has paired up with a number of quality producers to improve the availability and image of organic products. One such producer is Wychwood Brewery in Oxfordshire www.wychwood.co.uk I have to admit Wychwood is a FANTASTIC beer marketing brewery they have some of the most unique advertising campaigns ever. They produce, among others Fiddler's Elbow, Hobgoblin Ale, Black Wych Stout, a cider called Green Goblin, and a number of seasonal beers including my favourite "wych" I had in Bath England on tap in a pub just down from the Roman ruins "Dog's Bollocks."

Tonight's Offering is a ruby ale brewed with a selection of English barley including one first grown in 1905 called "Plumage Archer." The hops and barley were all grown in England at select organic producers including The Duchy Home Farm where the product line takes it's name. It is a 500ml 5.0% ABV ale certified organic by English and European Union boards.

The colour is a dark amber-orange with a frothy white head. The aroma is earthy and grainy with hints of fruit. A very light tasting beer, effervescent, hints of the British bitter. Grains, bread, and fruit dominate. Aeration brings a sparkling citrus fruit. Finish lingers with more bitter cleansing grains.

Overall results: (Fail, So-so, Pass, Exceptional)

Taste: Pass
Cost: Pass (Well it should... I got it free! but for a 500 ml bottle I believe it's $4.95)
Colour: Pass
Beer Style: Pass
Re-order: Pass
Experience: Pass

Final Thoughts. Not an outstanding beer, but no slouch either. it would be a good summer sipper light and airy. Unfortunately it is just not memorable.

Cheers
CJT