SUMO

The Rise of Mad Squirrel

Mad Squirrel Brewery has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most energetic and creative craft breweries. Born in Hertfordshire, the brand evolved from Red Squirrel into Mad Squirrel, embracing a more modern, vibrant identity that matches the boldness of its beers.

Known for its daring flavours, eye-catching design, and playful brand personality, Mad Squirrel has become a staple in the UK craft beer scene. Among its impressive line-up, one beer stands out for both name and taste — SUMO, a hop-heavy yet highly drinkable pale ale that’s as balanced as it is bold.


SUMO at a Glance

  • Style: American Pale Ale / Session IPA hybrid

  • ABV: 4.7%

  • Hops: Summit & Mosaic (the name “SUMO” is a mashup of the two)

  • Appearance: Hazy golden amber with a fluffy white head

  • Profile: Tropical fruit, citrus zest, herbal dankness, and clean bitterness

  • Vegan-friendly

SUMO is the kind of beer that perfectly balances big hop flavour with easy-going drinkability — the type you can enjoy on a sunny afternoon or at a lively taproom session.

Behind the Name: SUMO

At first glance, you might assume “SUMO” refers to heavyweight wrestlers — and in a way, it does. This beer packs serious flavour muscle. But the name actually comes from a clever combination of its two star hops: SU (Summit) and MO (Mosaic).

It’s a nod to the art of blending hops — bringing together Summit’s zesty citrus and Mosaic’s juicy tropical fruit notes to create a beer that’s complex yet cohesive. Like a well-matched sparring duo, these hops balance power with finesse.

The Brewing Process

While Mad Squirrel keeps their exact recipe under wraps, we know SUMO is crafted with precision and passion. The brewing team focuses on showcasing the hops’ natural vibrancy through late additions and dry-hopping, which amplifies aroma and freshness.

  • Summit hops contribute bold orange peel and grapefruit zest.

  • Mosaic hops bring layers of mango, pineapple, blueberry, and pine.

  • A light malt base keeps things crisp and lets the hops shine.

The result? A beer that bursts with hop flavour but remains smooth, clean, and infinitely drinkable.

The Tasting Experience

👀 Appearance

Pour SUMO into a tulip or IPA glass and you’ll find a hazy, golden-orange body topped with a soft white foam. It looks as fresh and inviting as it tastes.

👃 Aroma

From the first whiff, SUMO hits you with juicy mango, ripe pineapple, and grapefruit zest. Underneath, a hint of herbal dankness adds depth, balancing fruit with a touch of pine.

👅 Taste

Expect a burst of tropical fruit on the front of the palate — think mango and citrus — followed by a clean wave of bitterness that refreshes without overpowering. The malt base adds a subtle sweetness that ties it all together.

👄 Mouthfeel & Finish

Medium-bodied, with a smooth, slightly resinous texture and a crisp, dry finish. It’s refreshing and moreish, inviting another sip every time.

Best served: 4–6 °C in a tulip or IPA glass.

Perfect Food Pairings

SUMO’s bold hops and balanced bitterness make it a versatile food companion. Try pairing it with:

🍔 BBQ burgers or pulled pork — the hops cut through rich, smoky flavours.
🌮 Spicy tacos or wings — the tropical sweetness complements heat beautifully.
🧀 Grilled halloumi or veggie skewers — adds a satisfying contrast of salt and citrus.
🐟 Citrus-marinated fish or seafood tacos — the hops mirror and enhance zesty flavours.

When in doubt, SUMO goes perfectly with sunshine, laughter, and good company.

Branding & Visual Identity

Mad Squirrel’s branding is unmistakable — sharp, bold, and unapologetically modern. Each can features the iconic squirrel logo, surrounded by graphic artwork and vivid colour palettes.

SUMO’s design captures the same energy: strong, bright, and full of attitude. It’s the kind of beer that catches your eye on the shelf and lives up to its visual promise with every sip.

Where to Find Mad Squirrel SUMO

You can enjoy SUMO fresh from the source or through various retailers:

  • Mad Squirrel Taprooms – Visit locations in Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, or High Wycombe to enjoy SUMO on tap.

  • Online Shop – Order directly from madsquirrelbrew.co.uk for delivery across the UK.

  • Craft Beer Retailers – Find SUMO in bottle shops, pubs, and bars nationwide — often in 440 ml cans or on keg rotation.

Availability can vary, but SUMO remains one of Mad Squirrel’s core favourites, regularly featured in their lineup and mixed cases.


Why SUMO Stands Out

In a crowded field of IPAs and pale ales, SUMO manages to hit that sweet spot — big flavour, sessionable strength, and character that lingers.

Here’s why beer lovers keep coming back to it:

  • Balanced and approachable for newcomers

  • Packed with hop aroma for enthusiasts

  • Distinct branding that pops

  • Brewed with consistent quality by a trusted UK name

Mad Squirrel SUMO isn’t just another pale ale — it’s a statement of what modern UK craft beer can be: bold, creative, and endlessly drinkable.

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