Thomas Hardy's Ale, a legendary beer with a rich history, has had a fascinating journey in terms of its production. The revival and production of this iconic ale can be attributed to the persistence and passion of an American importer named George Saxon. Thanks to his efforts, Thomas Hardy's Ale was reborn in 2003, and it is currently being produced by O'Hanlon's Brewery.
The story behind the revival of Thomas Hardy's Ale is one that showcases the power of determination and a love for exceptional beer. George Saxon, an importer from the United States, became enamored with the history and reputation of Thomas Hardy's Ale. He recognized the potential and decided to bring it back to life, despite the challenges he faced in doing so.
Saxon's journey began with extensive research and countless discussions with beer enthusiasts, historians, and experts in the brewing industry. He delved deep into the archives, studying the original recipe and understanding the techniques and ingredients that were used to create this extraordinary beer. Through his research, Saxon discovered that the last batch of Thomas Hardy's Ale was brewed in 1999 by the now-defunct Eldridge Pope Brewery.
Armed with this knowledge, Saxon set out to find a brewery that could faithfully recreate Thomas Hardy's Ale. After an extensive search, he found a perfect match in O'Hanlon's Brewery, a renowned brewery located in Devon, England. O'Hanlon's Brewery, known for its commitment to traditional brewing methods and exceptional craftsmanship, embraced the opportunity to revive this legendary ale.
The collaboration between George Saxon and O'Hanlon's Brewery was a match made in beer heaven. Together, they worked tirelessly to recreate the original Thomas Hardy's Ale recipe, ensuring that every aspect, from the malt selection to the fermentation process, was true to the original. The goal was to capture the essence and character of the original beer, allowing beer enthusiasts to experience the same flavors and aromas that made Thomas Hardy's Ale so cherished.
The revival of Thomas Hardy's Ale was met with great excitement and anticipation from beer lovers around the world. The first batch was released in 2003, and it quickly gained a loyal following. Since then, O'Hanlon's Brewery has continued to produce this iconic beer, keeping the legacy of Thomas Hardy's Ale alive and thriving.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Thomas Hardy's Ale firsthand. The beer is a true masterpiece, with a complex and robust flavor profile that evolves with each sip. It boasts deep maltiness, notes of dark fruits, caramel, and a hint of hop bitterness that balances the sweetness perfectly. The beer has a luxurious, full-bodied mouthfeel and a warming alcohol presence that adds to its overall charm.
One of the remarkable aspects of Thomas Hardy's Ale is its aging potential. Like fine wine, this beer can be cellared for years, allowing it to develop new layers of complexity and nuance. I have had the privilege of trying vintages of Thomas Hardy's Ale that were several years old, and the transformation was extraordinary. The flavors became even more refined and harmonious, showcasing the beer's incredible aging potential.
Thomas Hardy's Ale is currently produced by O'Hanlon's Brewery, thanks to the dedication and perseverance of George Saxon. This iconic beer, with its rich history and exceptional flavor, continues to captivate beer enthusiasts and serve as a testament to the artistry of traditional brewing methods. Its revival is a true triumph and a testament to the passion and commitment of those who believe in the power of exceptional beer.