Arundel Brewery

Tesco's Foodie – Liquid Gold

When Tesco featured the brewery in its monthly free magazine, Foodie, the copy writer gave us some attention-grabbing headlines, like this one: 'Given that the team only started brewing bottled beers in 2005, it's clear they've got the Midas touch when it comes to ale'. Please scroll down to read the text of the article.

Left: Tesco's feature on the brewery was well illustrated and encapsulated the brewing process in just nine photographs.

Top row: malted barley; hops; weighing for a brew.

Middle row: the mash tun at work; a vigorous boil in the copper; yeast.

Bottom row: taking a hydrometer reading; tapping a cask; the end product.

Tesco's caption: Made from malted barley, hops, yeast and water, making traditionally brewed ale is very time intensive. 'The process literally involves our stitting and tasting – we're very hands on. Tradition is important and recognition from Tesco reinforces that message. It makes us feel our hard work is paying off,' says Jeremy.

A return to ancient traditions has reaped dividends for an enterpring West Sussex brewery

A few celebratory beers have been cracked open this summer at Arundel Brewery, West Sussex. Awarded first prize for its Arundel Special Bitter (ASB) at the regional Tesco Drinks Awards, the brewery's star beer has since become a part of the Tesco regional product range in Sussex and Surrey stores.

For the small five-man team it's a huge victory, and also marks the renaissance of Arundel's 200-year-old brewing tradition, which has been declining in recent years.

'These days people really like beers from small breweries – you can just taste the difference from mass-produced beer – it's the constant tweaking and perfecting that makes the difference to the flavour,' explains Jeremy [Owen]. 'Regular taste-testing is vital – and it's my favourite part of the job!'

Arundel's ASB is a fine example of how attention to detail pays off. Its complex roast malt flavour, and fruity, bittersweet finish, is all the more impressive given it's produced using completely traditional methods. Nearly everything is done by hand, and the only automated machine on site is a pump.

Some traditions are worth changing, though. 'Traditionally ale was served at room temperature but bottled beers like ours taste especially good when chilled – particularly for an autumn lunch, served with cold chicken,' adds Jeremy. 'Perfect!'

Locally produced ale is available in selected Tesco stores throughout the country. The ranges available change by region so check the drinks aisle in your store. Arundel Special Bitter is available for customers in East and West Sussex and Surrey.