Theakston Old Peculier
Update: Theakston beers are being imported by Latis Imports out of Ridgefield, CT. Check their website to see if Old Peculier is coming your way.
I haven’t seen or had this classic Old Ale from Theakston since long before I started this blog back in 2006. Part of that reason is that I didn’t know anything about beer back then (some would argue that’s the case today, as well) and really had no clue as to what I was drinking or that I should drink as much of it as possible at the time. The other part is that it hasn’t been available in the U.S for a few years now due to a change in distribution rights.
Hopefully, this sample bottle that arrived last week is an indication that it’s back though no additional information was provided on where, when or how much is going to be or already is available. I just know that I savored this one bottle for as long as I could.
Appearance
Old Peculier pours cola brown with just enough of a head to show it’s light tan color before fading quickly.
Aroma
The beer smells welcoming as wafts of rich malty goodness, dark fruits and a light roast come together. Hints of toffee and caramel also make an appearance.
Taste
As good as this beer smells, it’s the taste that really hits home though it’s hard to fully pinpoint why. All of the elements of the nose are there &$151; roasty malt, a richness, dark fruits, toffee. But there’s a little something more in there that I can’t quite put my finger on. It’s got a light sweetness to it, though not in the same levels as many of the higher potency old ales I’ve had in my time. Weighing in at only 5.7% ABV, it’s probably the most drinkable beer of this style.
Overall
The opportunity to have this beer again after so long was a treat. I don’t fully recall what my less-than-mature palate thought of the beer those many years ago, but I do remember enjoying it. And I fully enjoyed the beer this time around as well. I’ll be sure to keep my eyes and ears open with regard to Old Peculier’s availability the next time I hit my local shop.
Rating: 4.25/5
This is a review of a promotional sample received from a PR company.