Cask Beer's Affordability Could Shape Pubs' Future, Clermont Suggests
Cask beer’s affordability could be its biggest advantage, Clermont of Bristol Beer Factory argues. He says cask’s freshness, drinkability and ties to British pub culture give it a strong role in pubs’ future. While higher prices would be welcome for business, affordability could help pubs serve more cask and entice drinkers to try it. Cask can also showcase modern hop flavours from the US, New Zealand and Australia, and is often served warmer with less carbonation to emphasise flavour. Bristol Beer Factory has a small core range, with a frequent rotation of specials, releasing as many as 45 to 50 a year to keep cask fresh and give pubs new beers regularly. The core list remains short because successful specials aren’t always suitable for year-round production, while specials are seen as occasional and sought-after rather than permanent fixtures. Clermont also points to the need for breweries to help pubs maintain cask quality. A loss of experienced publicans has left newer operators needing support with cellar standards and staff training. The brewery uses a case-by-case approach, offering guidance where needed, avoiding the assumption that every publican requires instruction. He notes signs younger drinkers are rediscovering cask, drawn by its smoothness and the lure of traditional local pubs, while aiming to keep its appeal for all. Source: The Morning Advertiser
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