Double Diamond beer has a rich history that dates back to 1876 when it was first brewed in Burton upon Trent, England by Samuel Allsopp & Sons. This English pale ale quickly gained popularity and became a nationally distributed beer by the 1950s.
In 1935, Allsopp merged with Ind Coope, leading to the creation of Double Diamond Burton Pale Ale. This beer was a pressurized keg beer, similar to other popular brands of the time such as Watneys Red Barrel and Flowers Keg Bitter.
Double Diamond was heavily advertised in the 1940s, further boosting its popularity. It was known for its smooth taste and refreshing qualities, making it a favorite among beer enthusiasts.
Fast forward to 1976, and Double Diamond underwent a transformation. It was rebranded as Ind Coope Burton Ale, a cask conditioned version of the original bottled beer. This new version had an ABV of 4.5%, making it a slightly lighter option for beer drinkers.
Carlsberg UK took over the production of Ind Coope Burton Ale, ensuring that this iconic beer continued to be enjoyed by beer lovers. However, the last brew of Double Diamond at Ind Coope was in 1996, marking the end of an era.
Despite its discontinuation, Double Diamond remains a beloved beer, with its legacy living on through the memories of those who enjoyed it during its heyday. Its unique flavor and historical significance have cemented its place in the hearts of beer enthusiasts.
So, while you may not be able to find Double Diamond on the shelves today, its impact on the beer industry and its loyal following cannot be overlooked. Cheers to the memories and the enduring legacy of Double Diamond beer.
Is Double Diamond Beer Still Made?
Double Diamond beer is still made, albeit in a slightly different form. Originally brewed in 1878, Double Diamond became a popular beer in the UK. However, it faced some changes over the years, including a rebranding and ownership shifts.
Currently, Double Diamond is produced by Carlsberg UK, a subsidiary of the Danish brewing company Carlsberg Group. The beer is available in the form of Ind Coope Burton Ale, which is a cask-conditioned version of the bottled Double Diamond. The ABV (alcohol by volume) of Ind Coope Burton Ale is 4.5%, making it a relatively mild beer.
Carlsberg UK continues to produce Ind Coope Burton Ale, ensuring that fans of the Double Diamond brand can still enjoy a similar taste and experience.
Where Was Double Diamond Beer Brewed?
Double Diamond beer was originally brewed in the town of Burton upon Trent, located in East Staffordshire, England. The brewing of Double Diamond began in 1876 by Samuel Allsopp & Sons, who were known for their English pale ales. Eventually, Allsopp merged with Ind Coope in 1935, and it was during this time that Double Diamond was introduced in bottled form. The beer gained significant popularity in the 1940s due to extensive advertising efforts and by the 1950s, it became one of the four beers that were distributed nationally.
Conclusion
Double Diamond beer holds a significant place in the history of British brewing. Originally brewed in 1876 as an English pale ale by Samuel Allsopp & Sons, it gained popularity and eventually became a nationally distributed beer by the 1950s. The beer's production was later taken over by Ind Coope, and a cask conditioned version called Ind Coope Burton Ale was introduced in 1976.
Double Diamond's journey through the years showcases the evolution of brewing techniques and consumer preferences. It started as a traditional English pale ale and later adapted to the trend of pressurized keg beers, alongside other popular brands like Watneys Red Barrel and Flowers Keg Bitter. This shift in production method reflected the changing tastes of the time.
Though the last brew of Double Diamond at Ind Coope took place in 1996, the beer's legacy lives on. Carlsberg UK currently produces the cask conditioned version, Ind Coope Burton Ale, keeping the tradition alive for beer enthusiasts. The beer's rich history and enduring popularity make it a noteworthy choice for those seeking a taste of British brewing heritage.
Double Diamond beer represents a fascinating chapter in the story of British beer. From its humble beginnings as an English pale ale to its widespread distribution and adaptation to modern brewing techniques, it has left a lasting impact on the industry. Whether enjoyed as a cask conditioned ale or in its original pressurized keg form, Double Diamond continues to be a beloved choice among beer connoisseurs and a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of British brewing.
