Fyne Ales Jarl

Fyne Ales operate from a farm in Cairndow, Argyll, at the head of Loch Fyne — one of the most beautiful brewing locations in Scotland, if not the world. Jarl is their flagship beer and has become one of the most celebrated Scottish ales of the modern era, winning Champion Beer of Scotland and earning fans well beyond its Highland home. It’s a beer that’s achieved something rare: genuine cult status while remaining entirely sessionable.

Tasting Notes

Jarl pours a brilliant pale golden colour with a bright white head and an aroma that stops you in your tracks — vivid Citra hops delivering grapefruit, lemon zest, and a sharp citrus character that’s intensely fresh. On the palate it’s light and crisp with that citrus hop character carrying through, a soft malt base that doesn’t get in the way, and a clean, satisfyingly bitter finish. At 3.8% ABV it’s a genuine session beer, which makes the flavour intensity even more impressive.

Verdict

Drink Jarl fresh and cold — the hop character is the whole point and it fades with age. On cask it’s even better than in bottle: seek it out in a good Scottish pub. It’s one of those rare beers that converts sceptics and satisfies experts in equal measure. If you haven’t had it, fix that. One of the best Scottish ales going, full stop.