Shepherd Neame 1698

First brewed in 1998 as a special @ 10.5% abv to celebrate Shepherd Neame’s tricentenary. A cask version at 4.5% was also released. Was made a pasteurised bottle regular at 6.5% under the name Celebration Ale. Relaunched in March 2005 as a bottle conditioned strong ale @ 6.5% simply as 1698. Only local hops and malted

Originally brewed to celebrate the tercentenary of Britain's oldest brewer, 1698 is a characteristically hoppy Kentish ale, and has Protected Geographical Indication, the same unique regional protection afforded to Champagne and Parma Ham.

The ale matures naturally in the bottle and can be enjoyed fresh or allowed to settle for a few months to mellow. The natural effervescence produced by bottle-conditioning – the interaction of yeast and brewing sugars – gives 1698 fine, Champagne-like bubbles that further enhance the fragrance, flavour and overall drinking experience.

A silver medal winner in the Taste of Britain Awards, 1698 has been included in the International Beer Challenge's World's Top 50 Beers and has won a Gold Award from the British Bottlers' Institute.

6.5% ABV | 500ml