John Clarke

Delighted you have benefited from the beer which has my name on it.

Although I didn't post anything yesterday afternoon, it was because I was having such a great time at @salfordbeerfest.bsky.social . Great beer, great atmosphere and great company. What more could you want?

We finish on a bit of a lower point. Not sure about this one and certainly the least successful of the beers we have had. Not sure it works.

Our penultimate beer (number eight) is Sorachi Brut (9.4%) - very enjoyable. A great way to use Sorachi do it doesn't dominate. Good dry and subtle bitterness on the finish.

Beer number seven is a collaboration with Manchester's. @balancebrew.bsky.social . We think West Country IPA is basically a Cantillon Iris clone (says @daveratkins , and he should know) but none the worse for that.

Beer six is Saison Wet Stone (6.5%). Definitely in the saison ball park. Quite easy drinking but also extremely pleasant. Really enjoyable.

We reach beer number five: Munich (6.4%). Malt on the nose, good body and depth of flavour. Not sure what the aged Citra hops bring to the party. Lovely dry finish.

Next is Saison Spelt (5.8%). Not quite a saison but well on the way. Nonetheless, it's rather good and it's certainly something we'd seek out.

Beer number three is Old Cellar (5.2%) - aged in cask for five years. Rather musty, lots of Brett on the nose and on the palate. We aren't sure about this one.

Second beer is Cherry Reds (5.2%). It's quite 'krieky' but also with definite Flemish Red notes, particularly in the nose. We are impressed.

First is Airy Okay bottle conditioned with local honey. Sharpness perhaps softened by the honey. Some woodiness. An uncomplicated beer.

A range of Mills Brewing bottles about to be sampled.

About to have one of our periodic Mills catch-ups with @daveratkins.bsky.social at @petersgatetap.bsky.social (to whom thanks for letting us do this again). We have let things accumulate a bit, though.

It was very enjoyable. Must say I have been to Burton twice in the last 12 months (journeys involving two or three trains) without trouble!

Pub number five is not an official #ioldtomday venue but again it's on superb form.

Just try any Robinsons pub at this time of year m

It's superb!

Pub number four as we continue celebrating #oldtomday is the Arden Arms. Another delicious example...

Because this is the anniversary of Old Tom being first brewed (on 1 November 1899) and Robinsons make a big thing about it now. And, of course, the draught version is significantly better than the bottled(good though that is).

Stop number three for #oldtomday is the Red Bull on Hillgate. Another superb example.

It was!

Stop number two for #oldtomday is the Armoury.

I can confirm we have a pretty spectacular lineup this year. Should be great fun so do book a ticket.

Starting #OldTomDay in the Blossoms...

Just hosted a very successful Belgian beer talk and tasting at Silly Country in Droylesden. Now back in Stockport for a restorative pint and pizza at @runawaybrewery.bsky.social

The Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby currently drinking very well in @yeoldevic.bsky.social ...

It will be an interesting afternoon, I think.

I am planning a small Old Tom Day tour starting 1pm in the Blossoms.

Yes, pretty sure that's what it is - although I have never used it?

After an excellent day at Stoke Beer Festival we have finished in @yeoldevic.bsky.social on @fyneales.bsky.social Jarl. Just look at that clarity and shimmer..

You and your decadent, sybaritic lifestyle.