WATER drawn from a local spring is one ingredient that makes all the difference to the ales created by Brigstock Brewhouse.
Philip Wilks has been brewing since the 1980s but it was three years ago that he decided to take brewing just a little more seriously.
Potter’s Ruin was created to celebrate the wedding of his eldest son, Tom, and its success prompted the family to go into commercial production.
WATER drawn from a local spring is one ingredient that makes all the difference to the ales created by Brigstock Brewhouse.
Philip Wilks has been brewing since the 1980s but it was three years ago that he decided to take brewing just a little more seriously.
Potter’s Ruin was created to celebrate the wedding of his eldest son, Tom, and its success prompted the family to go into commercial production. The brew is still popular with customers who make appointments to visit the micro-brewery in Brigstock, near Kettering and Corby.
Philip and his wife Sally are responsible for the day-to-day running of the brewery while son Sam manages the website and Tom designs the labels.
The eye-catching labels adorn premium quality beers that are not mass produced.
The natural spring water combined with grain, freshly milled for each brew, and whole hops create ales that customers love for their smoothness and clarity.
The range includes Brigstock Gold ABV 4.2, a golden summer ale with a zesty aroma and refreshing citrus taste, Old Nick’s favourite ABV 4.8 a dark rich beer and Liberator ABV 4.2 which uses a combination of American and English hops in tribute to the nearby historic Grafton Underwood US airbase.
Autumn Harvest ABV 4.2 is a mellow autumnal beer and Potter’s Ruin ABV 4.8 has a distinctive fruity taste rounded with a toffee flavour and a nice hoppy finish.
For those who want something different, Cocoa Special Edition Old Nick’s Favourite ABV 4.8 boasts flavours of liquorice, toffee with subtle undertones of chocolate.
Philip said: “This beer is not for the faint hearted but we think it is truly special and distinctive.”
The beers are sold at markets including the monthly producers’ market at Stanwick Lakes.
Customers can also buy direct – the brewery is fully licensed and meets current health and safety criteria. All six beers are available in crown-capped, recyclable plastic bottles which look like glass and give the beers a long shelf life while retaining the quality, and to order in firkins, pins or beer-in-a-box.
To find out more or to make an appointment see the website at www.brigstockbrewhouse.co.uk or call 01536 373428.