Scottish beer worthy of a Robbie Burns supper
As Scots worldwide gather later this month to celebrate Robbie Burns, many of them will have a glass in their hand.
As they address the haggis while celebrating Scotland’s national poet, odds are that glass will contain whisky; not that there’s anything wrong with that, as the Scots make some pretty good stuff (though not the world’s best: that’s Canadian).
But while whisky may be the traditional tipple at a Burns supper, beer is also an excellent choice. Fortunately, there are some decent examples of Scottish brew available here in Ontario.
Innis and Gunn Bourbon Pale Ale
One of the more recent offerings from the barrel-aging specialists Innis and Gunn. This one has an even more pronounced vanilla character than most of Innis and Gunn’s brews, thanks to several weeks spent aging on bourbon-soaked oak. There’s also a decent amount of sweetness, though it thankfully never reaches cloying levels. LCBO: $3.55
Cauld Reekie
This rich, strong stout’s name is a play on “auld reekie,” the nickname for Edinburgh, which just happens to be where it’s brewed by Stewart Brewing. It’s got notes of dark chocolate, molasses and a little hint of espresso. It would go nicely with Scottish (or Canadian) venison, or a not-too-sweet chocolate dessert. LCBO: $4.95
Punk IPA
Though it’s Scottish, this bitter, slightly fruity brew wouldn’t have been a style familiar to Burns. This is an American-style IPA from Brewdog, one of the brashest, most outspoken brewers around. Its flagship beer has been available on and off in Ontario for about six years. It’s bold enough to stand up to the earthy, peppery flavours of a well-made haggis. LCBO: $3.45
Historic Ales of Scotland
Before hops came into vogue, brewers flavoured their beer with pretty much whatever they could get their hands on. In the case of the Celticera Scots, that was everything from heather flowers to elderberries, and needles from the ever-present white pine. All of those plants are used to flavour a brew in this four-pack of intriguing throwback ales. Alba — using the pine needles — is the strong, earthy highlight. LCBO: $11.95.