The Union

◎ Appearance

The Union presents a light golden hue with excellent clarity and a fine, persistent white head that clings to the glass with composed elegance. Carbonation is moderate and well-integrated, creating a stable foam collar that descends gradually. The overall presentation is refined and inviting, characteristic of a traditionally brewed British IPA.

◌ Aroma

The nose unfolds with warming caramel and toffee sweetness from the invert sugar and crystal malt base, layered beneath restrained herbal and cedary top notes from British Goldings and Northdown hops. Subtle berry undertones emerge from the dual-yeast fermentation, adding complexity without overwhelming the composition. The fruity cask ale strain contributes gentle stone-fruit character that balances the earthy hop profile.

◐ Taste

Entry reveals a malt-forward character with caramel and soft toffee sweetness, settling into a clean mid-palate where cedar-like hop bitterness begins to emerge. The 60 IBUs provide a firm but refined bitterness that integrates smoothly with the underlying sweetness rather than dominating. Berry notes from the fermentation linger subtly in the background, while the Norfolk Maris Otter malt provides a structured backbone without heaviness.

◑ Finish

The finish is medium-length and dry, with the hop bitterness persisting gently into the aftertaste without becoming astringent. A faint toffee warmth and whisper of stone fruit fade gradually, leaving a composed and refreshing impression.