Williams Bros The Joker - Non Alcoholic IPA

Williams Bros The Joker Tasting Notes:

Appearance: A radiant yellow hue with a soft, light haze that invites the drinker in for a closer look.

Aroma: A tropical medley is the first to greet the nose, bringing forth lush memories of sun-kissed beaches and exotic fruits. This is followed by the woody charm of cedar, a hint of rich caramel sweetness, and a zesty duo of orange and citrus that adds a refreshing spark.

Taste: A multi-layered flavour profile takes the centre stage. The foundation is built on a biscuity malt backbone, reminiscent of freshly baked bread. Fruity notes, evoking thoughts of juicy orchards and summer fruits, play the middle notes. Herbal undertones give depth and complexity, followed by a piney resonance that evokes the serenity of evergreen forests. The finale is a delicate dance of bitter-sweet, a testament to the beer's hoppy character and its delicate balance.

Mouthfeel: Smooth with a medium body, the beer gracefully slides over the palate, leaving a lasting impression of its rich tapestry of flavours.

Finish: A long and lingering finish with a pleasant bitterness, like the memory of a well-told jest.

Overall Impression: JOKER AF is a masterclass in achieving harmony between opposing elements. Bitter meets sweet, tropical greets woodsy, and all the while, the essence of the beer remains clear – it's a Joker with a serious commitment to taste.

Williams Bros The Joker Food Pairings:

• Starters: Vegan spring rolls drizzled with a light sweet chilli sauce or fresh guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips.
• Main Course: Grilled tofu steaks seasoned with herbs and a touch of lime, or a colourful mixed vegetable stir-fry with hints of lemon and ginger. These choices not only match but elevate the beer's citrus and herbal undertones.
• Side Dishes: A zesty quinoa salad with mango and avocado or roasted sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of rosemary.
• Desserts: A refreshing citrus sorbet to echo the beer's tropical notes or a light mango and passionfruit tart for a sweet finish.
• Snacks: Lightly salted cashews or almonds, or perhaps some spiced popcorn that teases the beer's hoppy character.

The Tale of Williams Bros. Brewing Co.

In the heart of Scotland, the story of Williams Bros. began not with a grand brewery but rather with a family-owned homebrew shop in Glasgow. It was here that a fateful encounter in the 1980s set the stage for one of Scotland's most innovative breweries.

A woman walked into the shop one day with a curious proposition. In exchange for help translating an old Gaelic recipe into a brewable formula, she would share with them the ancient recipe for "Leann Fraoch" (or "Heather Ale"). This brew, steeped in legend and history, was said to have been enjoyed by the Scots since 2000 B.C.

Seeing the potential and intrigued by the challenge, Bruce Williams, aided by his brother Scott, embarked on the adventure of reviving this almost-forgotten ale. The result was "Fraoch," a beer that paid homage to Scotland’s rich brewing heritage.

The success of Fraoch sparked a flame of inspiration. Williams Bros. then began a journey of unearthing and reviving other historical Scottish ales. From the spruce-infused "Alba" to the elderberry-flavoured "Ebulum", each beer told a tale of ancient Scottish traditions and tastes.

From these humble beginnings, the brewery grew in both size and reputation. Today, Williams Bros. Brewing Co. stands as a testament to innovation, dedication, and a deep love for brewing. While they have expanded their range to include contemporary recipes and styles, their heart remains rooted in the stories and flavours of Scotland's past.

In every sip of a Williams Bros. brew, one can taste not just malt and hops but the legends, landscapes, and lore of Scotland itself.