Six months after the last Mad Brewers release, the team at the Malt Shovel Brewery has launched Wee Highlander Scotch Ale; a limited release tap brew inspired by the Scottish heritage of brewer and 'wee' highlander Hamish McArthur (pictured).
McArthur, who joined the Malt Shovel Brewery team more than two years ago began working on the idea for the beer in February.
Wee Highlander is a rich, full-bodied, Scottish Ale brewed using a small portion of peated malt to add a slight smokiness and malted oats to add depth of character.
"Just like traditionally brewed Scotch Ales this brew undergoes an extended boil which, along with the use of crystal malts, gives a high degree of caramelisation of the brew-house wort. The result is a brew that has a deep red hue and a much more pronounced malty caramel and roasted malt flavour," he said.
The extended boil also concentrates the sugars giving a beer that is fuller-bodied and higher in alcohol (6.7 per cent), making it suitable as a 'winter warmer' for that fireside sip. Hops are used in moderation allowing the malt sweetness to dominate.
Mad Brewers Wee Highlander is now available nationwide on tap in selected venues while stocks last.