Goose Island and Magic Rock release new cask beers

The beers, Magic Gander and Pond Hop, have been made to bring some American flair to the classic British-style cask category. The duo are make up ‘The Migration Series’ and both are made using American hops.

Magic Gander is a golden ale that the makers claim is “a very simple, subtle, balanced, easy drinking beer with soft notes showcasing both the British and US hops” in which “soft floral citrus and gentle apricot aromas combine with subtle pine, stone fruits and spice”.

Meet the brewer events

Pond Hop is an American brown ale that has been inspired by English brown ale, but with a malty tribute to American beer styles. It is said to have hints of currants, caramel and spices on the nose and a nutty flavour with distinguished bitterness and a dark syrup sweetness.

The two breweries have also partnered with Nicholson’s Pubs to host ‘Meet the brewer’ events at two London pubs: the Globe, in Moorgate; and Doggett’s Coat & Badge, at Blackfriars Bridge. A third session will take also place at the Old White Swan in York on Thursday 29 September.

The events are open to everyone and will see expert brewers from both Magic Rock and Goose Island hosting tasting sessions and overseeing games of Goose Island Corn Hole to be in the chance to win free merchandise including Goose Island and Magic Rock collaboration tote bags and T-shirts.

Tap takeover

In addition to the events and collaboration beers, Goose Island will go nationwide with a tap takeover across 78 Nicholson’s Pubs sites.

Goose Island was established in Chicago in 1988 and its beers include Goose IPA and Bourbon County Brand Stout. Huddersfield-based Magic Rock was inspired by US beers and founded in 2011. Its beers include Salty Kiss gooseberry gose and Dairy Freak milk ice porter.

Magic Rock was bought by Australian beer giant Lion in March 2019 and was sold to Odyssey Inns in August this year​.