The Bramley Apple at Southwell
has recently had a facelift and become Springhead’s
first brewery owned public house. This fact alone prompted
yours truly and friends to pay said pub a visit asap.
To say that the pub has taken on a ‘minimalist’ look
might be an understatement. Rather, it appears positively
spartan on the décor front and somewhat unfinished, e.g. no
curtains or blinds at the windows - maybe this has been done
on purpose? I may have got this impression because the place
still smelled of paint and the pub had not yet been
‘worn-in’. However, I found the ambience comfortable and
pleasing, offering a refreshing alternative to the other
watering holes in the town.
On entering the pub, we were greeted by a very friendly and
helpful barman who gave us detailed beer descriptions and
offered us a try-before-you-buy without us even asking
(although I wouldn’t think that this courtesy would be
extended to everyone had the pub been full).
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The hand-pumps are divided into
two banks - one for Springhead beers and the other for
guests. On our visit there were six real ales available:
Springhead Bitter, Leveller, Roaring Meg and Puritans
Porter. This evening, the guest beers were Crouch
Vale IPA and Grainstore
Steaming Billy. There was also a handpulled real cider
available. So - a good choice, but what about the quality?
I tried a Steaming Billy first and unfortunately it was
cloudy. It was changed (at my request) without question, but
was still not right. I drank it anyway, and decided to move
on to the Springhead brews. I went through all four, and
could not fault any of them. The Leveller, in particular,
was nothing short of excellent and it looks as though
Springhead’s consistency problems have now been put behind
them.
Prices were also very reasonable, with the 5.2% Roaring Meg
being sold at £1.90 and the 4% Porter at £1.70.
Add to this a varied and excellent - sounding food menu (we
didn’t have time to sample it) and you have a pub that is
well worth a visit.
BoldBelvoir
Aug. '01 |
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