The Ultimate In Aged Beer

I've mentioned aged or cellared beers in the Musings previously, but for us, five or six years old is about as extreme as it gets, so far. A recent discovery in Great Britain shows what can be done under proper conditions. 2,000 bottles of a 75-year old Coronation Ale have been found in a brewery in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

It was made to celebrate Edward VIII’s first year as king, but when he abdicated the special royal beer was locked away... until now. 

Workmen renovating a brewery’s cellars uncovered 2,000 bottles of Coronation Ale which had been hidden for 75 years. 

Greene King created the brew to mark Edward’s first year on the throne – but he abdicated in 1936 after just 325 days to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson.

The beer was brewed at 12% ABV and apparently stored under proper conditions. The "rich fruit flavor" is reported to remain. A British ale fan was able to taste the beer and reports his impressions here.

Of course, there have been archeological discoveries of ancient beer. But those would be of more interest for study, rather than consumption.

See "Royal ale that's never been tasted found in cellar after 75 years" for more info and pictures.