All About Beer Magazine

Beer Talk

Old Jock Ale

Broughton Ales Ltd.
Broughton, Scotland
Imported by: Phoenix Imports
Columbia, MD

Available: AK, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, OH, TN, VA, WA

For centuries, the soldiers of the Highland and Lowland Regiments of Scotland have been referred to as “Jocks”: powerful fighting men who have won battle honors all over the world from historical times to the present day. These men, who often fought in terrible conditions against great odds, were renowned for their determination and valor.

ABV: 6.7
ABW: 5.53
Color: 50-60
Bitterness: 40
Original gravity: 1070

• Roger Protz

  Named not after an item of sportswear but Scots fighting men—the label shows a fierce and be-whiskered gent in full regalia—this 6.7% strong ale comes from a village in the Scottish Borders region, close to the birthplace of adventure writer John Buchan, author of The 39 Steps. Old Jock has a deep copper color, a fine mousse, and a rich and intensely fruity aroma: plums, raisins and sultana for starters, with peppery hops (Fuggles and Goldings) and roasted grain. Toasted and creamy malt, ripe berry fruits and spicy hops fill the mouth while the long finish is bittersweet, packed with fruit, malt and hops, but finally dry. The ideal companion for haggis or Abroath smokies.

• Garrett Oliver

  The deep copper color is striking and edges towards brown. The beer raises a thin head and the aroma shows sherry, leather, malt and dark fruit. The palate is lightly carbonated and sweet at first, the center full of winey fruit. Hops step in right before the finish to pull things back into balance. A very pleasant old ale in the malty Scottish tradition and a real treat with lamb, game meats and a wide range of British cheeses, even young Stilton.