News of the brews

May 15, 2006: Bateman's popular seasonal ale, Summer Swallow, is back.

A crisp, clean beer with an ABV of 4.2 per cent, it has a delightfully floral nose and a subtle bitter taste. Summer Swallow will be available nationwide from the end of July, exclusively through Sainsbury’s in bottle, and on cask from mid-June through wholesalers, as well as Bateman's own outlets.

Summer Swallow is a popular brand within Bateman's seasonal ale range which also includes Spring Breeze, Combined Harvest and the soon-to be-released Autumn Fall. The Batemans bottled beer range is unusual in that it is both Vegetarian and Vegan approved.

Neil Whelpton, Sainsbury’s beer buyer, said: “Summer Swallow is a popular addition to our seasonal range and a credit to Bateman's seasonal repertoire. It will be our beer of the month in August.”

l Jennings has launched Tom Fool (4%), a light mild. The beer is named after the legendary Tom Skelton, jester of Muncaster Castle in the Lake District - some believe his ghost still haunts the castle today. The word 'tomfoolery' derives from his antics. Available during May and June, the golden amber ale has a subtle complexity being made with Maris Otter barley and a blend of coloured malts and sugar.

Saint George (4.5%), from the 1648 Brewery, is a new beer for 2006, to tie in with the World Cup. Malted barley, Sussex hops and South Downs water go into the patriotic bitter.