Writhing with indecision at the bar because you’re not sure if you prefer drinking a pint of beer or a shot of whisky? Perhaps you want the drinkability of a lager, but yet want the fuller, punchier flavours of a stronger tipple? Decisions, decisions, decisions. Well, here’s a new drink in town that may just save you from wasting your barman’s time: Tennent’s Whisky Oak, a beer that marries Scotland’s national tipple – whisky – with beer.
Tennent’s Whisky Oak, by Glasgow, Scotland’s Wellpark Brewery, is a strong ale that’s been infused by whisky oak chips for a stronger, fuller flavour. But don’t confuse Tennent’s Whisky Oak with Tennent’s, a lager that’s also made by Wellpark, Scotland’s oldest and arguably the most successful brewery in the country that’s been making beer since 1740. Tennent’s Whisky Oak is dreamt up by head brewer Keith Lugton and his team and made using three types of locally-sourced Scottish malt, a blend of four hop varieties – Zeus, Summit, Tettnang and Aurora – as well as the pristine waters of Loch Katrine.
The Tennent’s brand is currently owned by C&C Group – which also owns Italy’s Menabrea – after it purchased the Tennent Caledonian Breweries subsidiary in late August 2009 from Brazilian-Belgian international brewery conglomerate Anheuser-Busch InBev.
Warm maturation and fermentation – it’s an ale, not a lager after all – with oak chips infused in Speyside single malt whisky results in a 6% ABV ale that’s honey-hued, rich with smoky, fruity aromas and hint of sweet vanilla (it’s unclear if Tennent’s uses virgin oak chips, or or washed and rejuvenated oak casks that’s later chipped down, for the infusion process).
Brought into Singapore by Dre@mfields, Tennent’s Whisky Oak will be officially launched this week – head brewer Keith Lugton will be in town for the launch event – and available from selected reputable bars and specialty liquor retail stores islandwide.
Tennent’s Whisky Oak
Maker: Tennent’s (Wellpark Brewery)
Style: English Strong Ale
ABV: 6%
Volume: 330ml
