When we were asked if we would like to sample a new seasonal beer, crafted by award-winning London-based Orbit Beers, we responded with a unanimous ‘yes’.
Established in the heart of south London in 2014, Orbit Beers has earned a reputation for producing a fine range of contemporary beers that are deeply rooted in European brewing traditions.
A mixed case duly arrived, which included several bottles of Jolly Saint Nico – the focus of this review – which is a Kölsch, a style of beer originally developed in Cologne, Germany.
The technique to create a Kölsch is unique; it involves fermentation with ale yeast and then finishing at cold temperatures, as with the production of lagers.
This style of beer is light and easy drinking, with the clean finish of a lager, but with more depth.
At Orbit Beers they developed Jolly Saint Nico specifically for the festive season, but just how well have they invoked the senses, aromas and tastes that you would associate with Christmas?
In our opinion, Jolly Saint Nico is an excellent beer, which delivers a total seasonal immersion.
The pale gold hop forward beer, with delicate bubbles, is light and refreshing; the initial hoppy taste gives way to cinnamon and symphony of seasonal spices that produced deliciously deep mincemeat flavours.
Although Orbit Beers incorporated ingredients that are designed to be associated with the festive season, Jolly Saint Nico is an exceptional beer that really shouldn’t be limited to a few weeks a year.
For more information visit their website