Archive for Stewart

Edinburgh No. 3

edinburgh_no3The Sun Inn was re-opened recently after a major refurbishment and now offers itself as ‘Edinburgh’s newest gastro pub’, even though it is actually located between Eskbank and Newtongrange on the A7 a couple of miles outside the city boundary.  Semantics aside, the Inn does have have great philosophy to local beer.  One of the stalwarts on the handpumps is this fine brew from Stewart Brewing, Edinburgh No. 3.

Stories abound as to the actual origin of this particular brew, but the one I like the best is that it is a reincarnation of an old brew by Younger’s (unsuprisingly called No. 3 Ale).  The older version was very dark, rich, hoppy and with a sweet treacle flavour (I’m told), and the Stewart version has “an intense colour, rich malty taste, and a clean finish” (so says the Stewart Brewing website).  I say – tasty! =)

Pentland IPA

pentland_ipaAs part of the aforementioned Hogmanay celebrations, I had bought a mini cask of Pentland IPA direct from the Stewart Brewery in Loanhead and Andy and I made a decent effort at getting to the bottom of it on the night.  However, we failed – which meant I got an extra cheeky pint early in the new year.  Winner!

Holy Gr’ale’

holy_graleHoly Gr’ale is specifically brewed by Stewart Brewing for one of Edinburgh’s finest real ale hostelries, Cloisters.  Set in a former manse, Cloister’s is renowned for an ever-changing selection of ales – and a wide range of whisky – but this beer is almost guaranteed to be available.  I like all of Stewart’s stuff, and this is no exception.  Very tasty – and yet another reason to visit this pub again!

Tip: visit this pub in the winter when it’s bitterly cold outside – the roaring open fire and pleasing lack of booming sound system make this pub an ideal retreat!