I'm not overly supprised that Hens Tooth doesnt go down to well, I was very disapointed when I bought a bottle here in England. Old Speckled Hen from the same brewer is a much better beer, obviously better when served from the cask, but perfectly acceptable from the bottle if served at the right temperature and allowed to 'breathe' to reduce carbonation.
Unfortunately some of the better brews like anywhere come from the micros and smaller brewerys so they are less likely to be imported. I'm supprised that anyone would notice inconsistencies in any Fullers brews though , they have a a large modern plant with the strict quality controls that you'd expect. While their beers are all perfectly drinkable I wouldnt want anyone to judge British ales by this standard just like i'm sure brewers in the US wouldnt want anyone to judge their beers by the stanards of Bud Light or MGD.
My favorite brewers i'd recommend (if their products ever make it accross the pond) are Hopback, Hogsback, Ringwood, Timothy Taylors and Theakstons.
Timothy Taylors Landlord and The Hop Back's Summer lightning are very pale, very hoppy, tastey beers and are not only good served at 13 deg c but due to the style and disticnt taste can also stand being served at the inhuman sub zero temperatures prefered by drinkers on the wrong side of the Ocean
