JW LEES seem to be over the moon about their beer collaboration with Professor Brian Cox. Cosmic Brew will go on sale in bottle and cask to consumers in January, coinciding with the telly pin-up scientist’s UK and Ireland arena tour.
Our mole, who witnessed the Cosmic unveiling in London yesterday, described the 3.9%ABV amber ale as “out of this world”. OK, ToM made that up but we are well up for one of the special previews at selected pubs around Oldham and North Manchester in October.
Between broadcasting and lecturing commitments at The University of Manchester, Brian, with the help of head brewer Michael Lees-Jones, has experimented with several different brews. As well as designing a unique star-led label
According to the Middleton Junction brewery, the resulting beer is “made with a unique blend of British hops, Admiral, Jester and Cascade to give it a modern hoppy twist.”
Prof Brian, once of pop group D:Ream said: “Growing up in Oldham, walking distance from the brewery, JW Lees is a name I’ve always known – and their beers are legendary! So, to work with them, to experiment with different beers, to uncover the secrets and science of brewing and launch Cosmic Brew has been a great experience.
“I also wanted to put something back into Oldham – to collaborate with a successful local industry to make something worthwhile. I’ve never done anything like this before, but when Michael asked me to collaborate on a beer, I couldn’t resist. It feels right.
“I enjoyed being involved in the branding and design. The pattern of the stars on the label is the view of the night sky looking North over the brewery on the day I was born; March 3, 1968. It’s what I would have seen had I looked out of the window. There’s a fact for the pub quiz.”
Michael Lees-Jones, Head Brewer at JW Lees, said: “There isn’t much of the brewing process that needs explaining to Brian, so talk quickly turned to the beers we like and to styles of beer that we would like to brew. We’re both huge fans of traditional bitter but also drink a lot for hoppy pale ales, so we had plenty of styles to play with.
“We tried many different variables before making our final choice. Cosmic Brew isn’t a nostalgic beer but a sessionable amber ale propelled with British hops for plenty of character and a finish long enough for an intergalactic journey.”
Great quote ML-J, but you missed out "universal appeal"!
