Hall & Woodhouse, Firkin Fox

Brewer: Hall & Woodhouse

ABV: 4.6%

Awards: None

Aroma: Spicy, Floral

Style: Auburn Ale

Tonight I am trying a foxy little number from Hall & Woodhouse Brewery in Dorset. The Brewery is known for witty names for their beers, In particular the familiar Fursty Ferret.

Despite the ever-demanding pace of our globalised world and fervent monopoly consuming the brewing industry as a whole, Hall & Woodhouse is still an independent family run business, despite the fact it can trace its origins back to 1777. Founded in the village of Ansty by Charles Hall, a Dorset farmer. The brewery initially had the sole purpose of keeping General Henry Clinton’s army well oiled and most likely tanked up!

Actually, whilst we’re on the subject, I too will be paying Dorset a visit later in the year so it would be rude not to stop by and get tanked up.

Cracking open the bottle, the ale pours a smooth amber colour and is somewhat bouncy in nature. There is minimal carbonation whilst the frothy head is inviting and has an intense pungent aroma.The aroma of this auburn ale is malty with subtle musings of biscuit, roasted nuts, whilst offering an earthy quality. This earthiness is likely explained by the presence of the Slovenian Celeia hop, which happens to be great for adding bitterness to the mix. There is an understated zest of citrus which can find its beginnings from the great American Cascade hop, which adds those simple, yet effective fruity floral tones to great aplomb.

Even after the ales heyday and you get to the dregs, this ale does not lose its flavouring. While other beers have a tendency to go flat and nondescript, Firkin Fox keeps on providing that zesty kick to see you through.

In my humble opinion, this ale is hugely satisfying to drink and goes nicely with spicy food.

4.25/5