Theakston celebrates new listings for lower alcohol beer Quencher

Launched in August last year, the 3.4% ABV “hop-forward” cask ale has, according to the brewer, received an “incredibly positive reception” from both drinkers and licensees with approximately 100,000 pints of Quencher already consumed since launch.

It is now listed across the on-trade with national availability secured via Heineken Direct, Star Pubs & Bars, Amber Taverns and the Blind Tiger Inns pub estate in Lancashire.

Developed by the Theakston’s head brewer Mark Slater, Theakston Quencher was designed to meet the rising demand from consumers for a lower alcohol cask ale, which retains the complexity of character found in stronger beers such as Theakston’s iconic Old Peculier (5.6% ABV).

Deceptively full-bodied​

It is brewed using the pearl barley and English-grown Sovereign and Eldorado hops, which Theakston said “creates a deceptively full-bodied cask ale with a refreshing floral and fruit hop character”.

Theakston Brewery managing director Richard Bradbury said: “While recognising the opportunity for lower strength beers, instead of attempting to lower the strength of an existing beer, we believed that the right thing to do was to create a distinctive new ale that would bear all the hallmarks of a Theakston classic.

“The success of Quencher, a lower alcohol option that doesn’t compromise on taste, has proven it was the right decision.”

Brilliant reception​

Bradbury continued: “Theakston Quencher is a new classic cask ale, the result of combining high-quality raw ingredients with our nearly 200 years of brewing expertise.

“We’re gratified that the final product is receiving such a brilliant reception and for the continued support of consumers and pub and bar licensees.”

There are nine permanent brands in the Theakston range: Theakston Best Bitter, Theakston Old Peculier, Theakston Summit (Chilled Pale Ale), Theakston XB, Theakston Lightfoot, Theakston Quencher, Theakston Barista Stout, Theakston Pale Ale and Theakston Dark Mild, along with a range of well-established seasonal ales.