Adnams has broken out from the straitjacket of Bitter and Broadside with a raft of additional beers, made possible by its new flexible German-built brewhouse. This new and exhilarating ale celebrates William Godell, known as the 'Father of Southwold', the brewery�s home base in Suffolk. An image of Godell features on the label of the bottle-conditioned beer, complete with a red seal. The 750ml bottle has a cork and cradle closure to underscore the image of antiquity.

Adnams, William Godell Celebratory Ale (England) The ale is based on a recipe from the early 16th century and uses oats and wheat alongside conventional malting barley. The hop marks a departure from Adnams� devotion to Fuggles and Goldings: the beer uses the much-acclaimed New Zealand variety Nelson Sauvign, so called because it creates a gooseberry character similar to the one found in wines from that country that use the Sauvignon grape. The beer has a massive gooseberry aroma backed by a cinnamon stick spiciness, peppery hops and mellow grain. The tart gooseberry fruit dominates the mouth but sweeter fruits develop, balanced by tangy hops and biscuit malt. The finish is dry, bitter, hoppy, fruity and wonderfully refreshing. It�s only January, but William Godell will take some beating to win Beer of the Year. The beer is available from Adnams Kitchen & Cellar in Southwold, 01502 727 222. Malt: high. Hops: high. Fruit: high. 4.5% ABV, 75cl, �24.99 for six, Adnams Cellar & Kitchen.