Guinness launches ‘ultra-premium’ ale

A limited-edition amber ale brewed with both beer and whisky malt has become the first in a new Signature Series line launched by Guinness.

Bringing a “new level of elegance and artistry to the beer category”, The 1759 is brewed with both traditional beer malt and the same peated whisky malt used in the “world’s finest” Scotch and Irish whiskies.

Only 90,000 bottles of the 9% abv beer have been produced with its makers recommending it be served in a “stemless Champagne flute”.

Packaged in a black, velvet-lined box, The 1759 is described as “unlike any other European import on the market” and is aimed squarely at the US market.

Doug Campbell, Guinness brand director, said: “The United States is driving a beer renaissance that hasn’t been seen globally for decades. Today, the expectations of beer connoisseurs and enthusiasts are significantly higher.”

The brew itself is said to have a “rich butterscotch aroma with subtle hop notes. The mellow, caramel flavors combine with a subtle hop character and fruity sweetness from the strong ester profile.”

Named after the year Arthur Guinness signed the 9,000-year-old lease at St. James’s Gate in Dublin, it is the first first limited edition beer to have been brewed at Guinness’ newly opened Brewhouse No. 4.

The 1759 will be available in select bars, online at reservebar.com and select beer retailers from late October 2014 with an RRP of $34.99.