First brewed in 1971, ESB is unrivalled in terms of its flavour and balance. A powerful 5.5% a.b.v. in cask (5.9% a.b.v. in bottles and kegs), it is brewed from Pale Ale and Crystal malts, and from Target, Challenger, Northdown and Goldings hops. But don't ask us for the actual recipe - that's a closely guarded secret. Andrew Jefford, the respected UK drinks critic, sums up ESB's flavour thus: an ample, grainy-nutty aroma and a broad, authoritative flavour, with lashings of dry marmalade-like bitters, whilst 'Beer Supremo' Roger Protz describes an enormous attack of rich malt, tangy fruit and spicy hops in the mouth, with a profound Goldings peppery note in the long finish and hints of orange, lemon and gooseberry fruit.