Wadworth Swordfish Ale

Product of: United Kingdom

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Wadworth Brewery in Devizes launched this bottled ale to mark the centenary of navy flying and named it after the WWII Swordfish bi-plane.

Affectionately known as Stringbags, even at the time these flying machines looked old-fashioned with canvas stretched over metal struts. However, they carried a three-man crew and a 1,600lb torpedo and were renowned for their part in the war, particularly for crippling the German battleship Bismark.

The family owned brewery is the closest brewery to the Yeovilton HQ of the Fleet Air Arm and chose to add Pusser’s rum to this beer to emphasise the naval connection. Unrefined cane sugar adds richness to a base of crystal malt flavoured with Goldings hops.

Review and Tasting

Sampled on 03/01/2011

Appearance:

Clear, copper coloured.

Aroma:

Wonderfully rounded with malty, fruity notes balancing a good hop character.

Taste:

Swordfish is certainly more flavoursome than the 6X it is based on but doesn’t scream “rum added”, instead the rum’s flavour is integrated into this smooth satisfying beer.