Shepherd Neame India Pale Ale

◎ Appearance

Deep golden hue with bright clarity and excellent light transmission. A sturdy, cream-colored head forms readily and maintains steady retention, leaving distinct lacing along the glass as it settles. Carbonation is visible and lively without excess.

◌ Aroma

Target and Fuggles hops deliver a pronounced earthy, herbal character with underlying spice notes—black pepper and subtle clove—that evoke the hop varietals themselves. A restrained malt sweetness frames the nose, along with faint dried fruit complexity. The aroma is clean and focused, without fruit-forward brightness.

◐ Taste

Entry is full-bodied and dry, with immediate hop bitterness that develops across the palate without harshness. Mid-palate reveals spiced fruit notes and a distinct minerality from the Faversham water, while the malt layer provides gentle sweetness and toasted grain complexity. Bitterness builds steadily and persists as the defining character throughout.

◑ Finish

A long, dry finish with lingering bitter notes and fading earthy hop character. The aftertaste remains clean and slightly warming, true to the style's historical purpose of preservation during long voyages.

Serve at 8–11°C for the best flavour balance and aroma expression.

The curved shape concentrates hop aromas and supports a thick head. Essential for aromatic ales and IPAs where the nose is half the experience.