Express reporter Fran Winston tried Jeremy Clarkson's Hawkstone lager for the first time at the Great British Farm Fest over the May bank holiday weekend. The festival, brainchild of Clarkson and buoyed by the success of his Prime Video show Clarkson's Farm, featured Hawkstone as the alcohol sponsor.
First Impressions and Price
Winston headed to the pop-up version of Clarkson's pub, The Farmer's Dog, to procure a pint, which carried a hefty £7.50 price tag at the festival. Usually, it retails for £6.75 in his pub, but Clarkson increased the cost for the weekend. The session lager, at 4.0% ABV, is described as having a light body, subtle hop character, and a sweet, biscuity malt finish.
The malt barley used comes directly from Clarkson's Diddly Squat Farm, and the lager is matured for up to 6 weeks, significantly longer than the industry average.
Appearance and Taste
The lager didn't look particularly enticing after being poured, as it didn't hold its head and appeared almost flat. However, this could be due to the plastic glasses required by festival health and safety regulations. Upon tasting, there was some life in it, but it was not the most gaseous pint. Winston noted that a bit more carbonation would have improved it, possibly due to the portable systems used at the event.
Aside from that, the lager was refreshing but very malty. Winston, who has tried hundreds of lagers from craft brands, limited editions, and mainstream lines, placed Hawkstone in the top 25% but not in the top ten.
Overall Verdict
Winston stated she would have it again if available but would not go out of her way to source it. She would not pay £7.50 for it and considered even the usual £6.75 price somewhat expensive, though she acknowledged production costs may be high. Concluding, she said it was not the best and not the worst, and it didn't leave a lasting impression.
