Sadlers Peaky Blinder

Sadler’s Brewery is based in Stourbridge in the Black Country, a region with a long and proud brewing heritage that doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. Peaky Blinder is their tie-in with the hit BBC drama, and unlike many celebrity or brand-associated beers, it’s genuinely well-made — the collaboration clearly involved people who actually care about beer rather than just slapping a famous name on something mediocre. The Black IPA style (sometimes called Cascadian Dark Ale) is an interesting one: porter darkness with IPA hop punch.

Tasting Notes

Peaky Blinder pours jet black with a dense tan head that holds well. The nose is a compelling combination of roasted malt, dark coffee, and citrus hop character — the aroma alone is distinctive. On the palate the roast and the hops coexist in an interesting tension: dark chocolate and coffee from the malt, assertive citrus bitterness from the hops, with neither completely dominating. The finish is long, dry, and satisfyingly complex. It’s a beer that rewards attention.

Verdict

Serve cold but not ice cold — at around 8-10°C to get the full complexity. Peaky Blinder is a great option for stout lovers who also appreciate hop character, and vice versa. It pairs well with smoked meats, strong cheese, or dark chocolate. Put Peaky Blinders on in the background and you’re set for an excellent evening. By order of the Peaky Blinders.