The Shire
Let's take a look at our latest cask beer.
The Shire is a 3.7% ABV English Pale Ale that brings together the familiar character of a traditional British pale ale with a fresh, modern hop profile.
Brewed with Motueka hops, the beer has a bright, citrus led character, with aromas and flavours of freshly crushed lime, lemon zest and tropical fruit. These sharper, fruitier notes are balanced by a soft malt foundation, bringing hints of biscuit and honey that give the beer a rounded and approachable character.
At 20 IBU, the bitterness is restrained, allowing the citrus and tropical hop notes to stand out without overpowering the malt. The result is a light, refreshing pale ale that feels easy-going while still offering plenty of flavour.
The concept takes subtle inspiration from The Shire. The rolling green landscape, cosy countryside and sense of escape associated with the name. Rather than leaning too heavily into the fantasy, the design brings those ideas into a distinctly British beer setting: green fields, traditional pubs and a pint enjoyed at the end of the day.
It felt like a natural fit for Mad Squirrel. The Shire combines the charm of an English pale ale with a little sense of adventure, creating a beer that feels familiar, refreshing and full of character. A great addition to the cask offering for this autumn!