A British brewery, an iconic fermentation system, and a world-renowned brewmaster: Thornbridge Brewery has teamed up with Garrett Oliver to release a remarkable beer that also stands as a statement for diversity in brewing.
A Brew with Symbolism
In Bakewell, at the heart of England, Thornbridge Brewery has revived a traditional technique: the Burton Union systema - a complex fermentation method that once defined British ales. With support from Garrett Oliver, founder and brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery (USA) and a prominent advocate for diversity in beer culture, the only remaining operational Union set of its kind has been restored and brought back to life.
The first joint creation now brewed on this system is a "Strong Dark Mild" - a bold take on an often overlooked British beer style. In addition to classic ingredients like Maris Otter and dark roasted malts, the recipe features fonio, an ancient West African grain. The result: a creamy, complex beer with fruit notes, caramel depth, and international character.
Beer as a Cultural Bridge
This collaboration goes beyond a mere fusion of brewing styles. It serves a clear purpose: with every pint or can sold, ten pence are donated to the Michael James Jackson Foundation (MJF), an organization founded by Garrett Oliver that supports education and career advancement for People of Color in the brewing and distilling industries.
“I’m 36 years into my brewing career, and yet this still counts as one of the most personally significant beers I’ve had the opportunity to brew,“ says Oliver, „My journey into brewing started with British cask beers at the pub, and to brew on this singular and wondrous beast is a great privilege.”
One question remains: when historical technique, international collaboration, and social responsibility come together so beautifully—why not more often?
Cheers.
Source: Thornbridge Brewery
Photo: Screenshot Thornbridge website, 25.06.2025
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