Palmer's is one of England's oldest family-owned brewers, founded in Bridport, Dorset, in 1794. It's also one of the most attractive breweries in the country, part-thatched and with a working watermill that dates from 1879. The company was bought in the late 19th century by John Cleeves Palmer and Robert Henry Palmer, who gave their names to the brewery: J.C. & R.H. Palmer. Today, their great-grandsons, John and Cleeves, are in charge and continue to concentrate on a portfolio of cask-conditioned ales: Copper Ale, Best Bitter, Dorset Gold, 200 and Tally Ho!. The brewery runs 57 tenanted pubs in the world heritage Jurassic Coast region of Dorset, which featured in the book and film of the French Lieutenant's Woman.

Palmers, Dorset Gold (England) (RP) The bottled version of Dorset Gold is brewed with Maris Otter pale malt, a touch of wheat malt and hopped with East Kent Goldings and Styrian Goldings, The beer has a pale bronze colour and an aroma that has a powerful butterscotch character, balanced by biscuity malt and spicy hops. Ripe malt, butterscotch and tangy hop resins fill the mouth while the complex finish has a hint of pear fruit, juicy malt and peppery hops. It�s a rewarding and refreshing beer: 5p from the sale of each bottle goes to the Chesil Trust, a charity that helps the young and disabled discover the joys of sailing. Malt: high. Fruit: medium. Hops: medium. Available from independent retailers in South-west England and the West Country, and from Palmer�s Wine Store in packs of 12. 4.5% ABV, 50cl, £1.79, brewery website.