I know, I know. That beer is brewed by Lagunitas in Petaluma, California! OK, since 1927 this beer WAS brewed in England and through several sales of the company it now is brewed all over the place. Still a nifty beer, I’d call it an English brew.
Newcastle was originally a workingman’s beer, initially brewed in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Newcastle has fallen prey to the same type of marketing geniuses that helped nail the coffin for Anchor Steam in San Francisco – namely changing out a 100 year old, classic, iconic, loved and recognizable beer label for something that looks like it was generated by a 19-year old using clip art and Photoshop.
Companies, near and far – quit doing this! It’s not gaining you any market share, in fact, you lose market share when you do this. Stay with the classic labels, for crying out loud!
Newcastle is brewed at a thirst-quenching 4.7% ABV, has a slight roastiness to the flavor profile. I heard folks say it tasted different that the original English production. I can’t vouch for that, but the current brew is flavorful and tasty – I’d probably buy more of it - if it had the classic labels. I'm embarrased to take these ones through the checkout line. What's next, the left end of the cold case? Enjoy your beer.