Fans’ beer to bring cheer to charity during crisis

United supporters’ group donating profits from drink to those in need

A craft beer made specially for the play about the life of Dundee United legend Jim McLean has been given a new lease of life supporting a local charity during the coronavirus outbreak.

Foundation 1909 was a hit when it went on sale at Dundee Rep Theatre earlier this year during the production of Smile.

The tipple was the result of a collaboration between the Dundee United Supporters’ Foundation (DUSF) and Law Brewing Company.

It proved so popular that Denis McGurk, DUSF director, and his team have now decided to forge ahead and produce more bottles, with the profits going to Dundee Voluntary Action.

Denis said: “The work they are doing is absolutely vital and timely. It’s not as if they can wait six months for money. They need it now.

“We charge £2.50 per bottle and the production costs come to about £1.50, so £1 is going to the charity.

“There is an offer for multipacks, so the profit comes to a little less than a pound per bottle in those cases, but we’re looking to raise £1,000 with what’s already produced.

“All profits go to the local charity to help the most vulnerable receive food and medication.”

The first batch of 500 bottles has sold out and a second batch is going fast.

Denis said the team will continue making the beer as long as there is demand.

“A good thing about working with a local brewery is that they can adapt to demand quickly,” he said.

“We’ve changed the recipe slightly from what was available at the Dundee Rep for Smile. It’s a little less hoppy now.

“We got very good feedback for it, but there were some who said it was a little sharp for their tastes.

“We’ve had some inquiries to do a dark beer as well, so it’s something we can potentially expand.”

The bottles are only available by ordering direct at the moment, but the group are considering making it available to shops if it continues to be a success.

Named after the year of United’s formation, Denis said it was also a way of celebrating the club’s recent promotion to Scotland’s top flight.

He added: “The fans haven’t been able to celebrate the Championship win and promotion in the normal way as such, so hopefully this is a way to do so.”

Orders for Foundation 1909 made via info@dusf.scot can be

Pictures: Gareth Jennings. Danny Cullen of the Law Brewing Company and Denis McGurk of DUSF with bottles of the craft beer.

Denis McGurk hopes the beer will help Dundee United fans celebrate the club’s Championship success.