A brewery which once held the record for the world’s strongest beer is under new ownership. The Parish Brewery in Burrough on the Hill, east Leicestershire, has been bought by real ale enthusiasts Bruce Cooper and Charlie Gamble after founder Baz Parish decided to step back. Mr Parish will remain involved in a consultancy capacity.
The brewery, which opened in 1983, operates out of a 400-year-old converted stable block and has a 20-barrel plant making more than 5,000 pints per brew.
Its beers, available in cask, beer box and bottle, include Parish Special Bitter, Proper Charlie, Burrough Bitter and a super-strength 12 per cent brew called Baz’s Bonce Blower.
The brewery also once had the Guinness world record for the world’s strongest beer called ‘Baz’s Super Brew’, which was a super strength 23% ABV.
All its ales are brewed using traditional methods and British malted barley, English hops, yeast and water.
New co-owner Bruce Cooper said: “We’ve been advocates of Baz and his brewing prowess for many years, so when he mentioned wanting to take a step back, we saw an opportunity to carry on his legacy.
“There is huge mileage and heritage in the products and we are seeing a renaissance in cask conditioned beer.
“In recent times, cask is being better understood and generating a wider following. It has no CO2 added, it’s not pasteurised, not filtered and a wonderful ‘live’ product until it’s served. In fact, cask beer is the freshest product on the bar.
“Well looked after, there’s nothing quite like a pint of real ale. As people understand it more, there is a genuine appreciation of the process. We’re excited about bringing the Parish Brewery into 2023 and have some exciting plans for the future.”
In the coming months new brews are planned to expand its cask conditioned beer portfolio, plus Parish Brewery will be rolling out a fresh new look and a new online shop.
For trade customers, new electronic invoicing formats will be introduced with online ordering and credit and debit card facilities.