Can't see Ruby - it's all gone Smokey!

October 21, 2005: For all those who were expecting Durham Ruby at the Woodman German/Durham Beer Festival, the brewery has announced an interesting change of plan.

The Ruby was something of a test brew that, the brewery's Steve Gibbs admits, has not turned out as intended.

"The recipe was based on traditional mild ingredients which have given it a liquorice, smokey flavour," he said.

"The beer is very distinctive but does not meet the specifications for the Ruby, therefore I have renamed it 'Durham Smokey'. Durham Ruby will appear in due course."

Now that's initiative!