Black Sheep Riggwelter

A sheep is known to be riggwelted when it has fallen on to it’s back and is unable to get back up without the assistance of the farmer. Riggwelter, unsurprisingly, was brewed to be one of Black Sheep’s stronger ales. It’s ruby-brown in colour, with an aroma of toasty malts and dried fruits. A sip blasts you with roasted nuts, dried fruits and toffee. A delicious dark beer that will have coming back for more. Just mind you don’t end up riggwelted!

The fabled Riggwelter has grown to be one of our most loved cask ales and remains our most decorated beer having won numerous awards.

Riggwelter takes its name from a local Yorkshire Dales farming term which has Nordic roots; “rygg” meaning back, and “velte” meaning to overturn. A sheep is said to be rigged or ‘riggwelted’ when it has rolled onto its back and is unable to get back up without assistance. What better name for a strong beer from the Black Sheep Brewery in Yorkshire, eh?!

Riggwelter is a real showcase of hops, malt and yeast. Layers of chocolate and coffee are most prominent with dark fruits offering a sweet balance against the bitter roasted flavours. Our in-house strain of yeast provides more fruity esters including freshly peeled banana.

Pouring a dark ruby colour and when served through a hand pull, there’s not many beers that can match Riggwelter’s beauty.