How do you introduce a legend? Perhaps it’s best to begin with a quote:
There are more flavours in the beers brewed by Theakston in Masham than there are from an entire wine growing region in France.
— Roger Protz, Editor of The Good Beer Guide
High praise indeed, but in this case, entirely deserved.
A Beer Steeped in History
T&R Theakston Brewery’s Old Peculier (5.6% ABV) is not just a beer; it’s a piece of brewing history.
Brewed in the Yorkshire town of Masham, Old Peculier has been produced under this name since the 1890s, making it one of the most enduring and recognisable ales in Britain.
Over the decades, it has built a reputation not just for consistency, but for character, earning accolades such as a silver medal at the Campaign for Real Ale Champion Winter Beer of Britain awards in 2000.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name Old Peculier is as intriguing as the beer itself.
It derives from the historic 'peculier of Masham,' a parish that existed outside the jurisdiction of a diocese, answering directly to the Crown. The term 'peculier' (or 'peculiar') therefore refers not to something strange, but to something independent, distinct, and set apart.
It’s a fitting name for a beer that has always stood confidently on its own.
The Character of the Ale
Described on the label as a 'full-bodied, rich, smooth tasting ale with a mysterious and distinctive flavour,' Old Peculier delivers exactly that.
It is a beer that resists easy definition, layered, complex, and steeped in tradition. Each sip seems to carry echoes of its long history, balancing richness with drinkability in a way few ales manage.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep mahogany to dark ruby in colour, with a soft, creamy off-white head. When held to the light, it reveals a rich, almost glowing translucence that hints at its depth.
Aroma: A warming bouquet of dark fruits, raisins, figs, and dates, mingles with toffee, caramel, and a subtle nuttiness. There’s a faint earthy hop presence beneath, along with a whisper of spice.
Taste:
- Malt: Rich and dominant, with layers of caramel, toffee, and treacle
- Fruit: Dried fruits, plum, raisin, and fig, add sweetness and complexity
- Hop: Low but balancing, with an earthy bitterness that prevents cloying
- Finish: Smooth, slightly warming, with a lingering dark fruit sweetness and gentle spice
Mouthfeel: Medium to full-bodied, with a smooth, almost velvety texture. The carbonation is soft, enhancing its drinkability despite the richness.
A Legend That Endures
In an age of constant innovation and ever-changing trends, Old Peculier remains steadfast, a reminder that some things don’t need reinvention.
It is, quite simply, a classic: a beer with a story, a sense of place, and a flavour profile that continues to captivate drinkers generation after generation.
And perhaps that’s the only introduction a legend truly needs.
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