Emma Isle of Skye Brewing Company Beers
With the rebranding of Isle of Skye Brewing Company beers, we got a chance to re-taste some favourites.
Background
The brewery has been around since 1992, and as with all good things, started from a chat in the pub about the lack of good beer in Skye. The rebrand comes with the new ownership after the fall through of the proposed merger with Arran Brewing.
Rebranding
In this age of clearer labels and names and a new owner, the brewery have changed their brands. Skye Red was Red Cuillin, Skye Black was Black Cuillin and Skye Gold was Hebridean Gold. A new distribution centre in Rutherglen means that we should be seeing more of Skye beers. Leading chef Tom Kitchin is currently trialling its new keg ale, Skye Eilean-or (Gaelic for Island gold) at his Scran and Scallie restaurant in Edinburgh. So it’s all looking bright for Skye.
The Beers
Skye Red
HOPS
Challenger, Fuggle, Pioneer
ABV 4.2%
MALTS
Pale Ale, Crystal, Roast
Verdict
Bottle poured a dark ruby colour with a creamy head. A toasty malt taste with a creamy caramel and nuttiness to it. Good session ale.
Skye Gold
HOPS
Challenger, Hersbruker
AROMA
Oaty, Light Bitterness
ABV 4.3%
MALTS
Pale Ale, Crystal
ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS
Porridge Oats
Verdict
It has a lovely golden colour with an oaty, slightly bitter smell and balanced fruity, bitter and oaty flavours. Could happily drink this all evening.
Skye Black
HOPS
Challenger, Progress
AROMA
Fruit, Malt
ABV 4.5%
MALTS
Pale Ale, Roast, Crystal, Chocolate
ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS
Rolled Roast Oats, Heather Honey
Verdict
A thick, dark beer with chocolate/nutty notes. Very enjoyable.
Upcoming Events
26th June – Prestwick Pioneer, Prestwick (6pm-8pm)
3rd July – Ruadh Ghlean, Rutherglen, Glasgow (6pm-8pm)
9th July – Henglers Circus, Sauchihall Street, Glasgow (6pm-8pm)
16th July – Sir John Sterling Maxwell, Shawlands, Glasgow (6pm-8pm)
5th August – James Young, Bathgate (6pm-8pm)
Festivals
26-28 June – Glasgow Real Ale Festival, Briggait, Glasgow
10-13 July – Scottish Real Ale Festival, Corn Exchange, Edinburgh
Many thanks to Wire and Skye Brewing Company for the opportunity to re-try these beers.
