Along with my previous post on imperial stout I have been intrigued by bottle conditioned ‘vintage’ ales, and one that seems quite popular is Thomas Hardy by Eldridge Pope. Not being one to shy away from trying something new I jumped on to Google and had a dig around to find out what the story behind them is and where I can get a bottle.

1968 was the fortieth anniversary of the death of author Thomas Hardy and to commemorate this event Eldridge Pope brewers concocted a brew that reflected Hardy’s description of an ale. The ale itself was designed to be a big one from the outset; matured for nine months in oak sherry casks at a ABV of 12%, along with it being designed to be kept for a long time and improve with age.

The 1968 run was a one off until 1974 when the idea was revived and then was brewed every year until 1999 , at which point it ceased until takeover by the Americans…!

After being enthralled by tales of this mystical liquid I traced a few blokes looking to sell the odd bottle, with prices ranging from £10 to £100 depending on age. I was told to try Ebay for some more, which is where I was lucky enough to spot almost-a-case (23 bottles) of 1993 Ale being sold as a job lot which I promptly snaffled up for £73 inc P&P.

The case, and a bottle. £3.20 each I-thank-thee!

I am currently out in Brisbane Australia and this ale is being looked after at the North Wales hideaway so in late September I hope to have the first tasting as at 14 years old it ought to be close to being in its prime!