Brewery: Fuller’s (Fuller, Smith & Turner)
Location: London, England
ABV: 6.3%
Version: 500ml bottle
Source: Sainsbury’s

Fuller’s first produced this strong ale for their 150th anniversary, back in 1995 and it seems to have been a firm favourite of their range ever since, winning the CAMRA Champion Bottle Conditioned Beer of Britain award along the way.

And it was an entirely deserved one, if you ask me. Pouring a clear ruby red with a thick bubbly head, 1845 gives off an enticing scent of spicy fruit cake as it wallows in the glass. The 100-day maturation process results in a rich, smooth beer of strong character as well as strong alcohol content: coffee, toffee and chocolate flavours are most prominent. Great mouth-feel as well; almost chewy.

Definitely one to try, definitely one to savour. I’ll be looking out for 1845 again.