On Thursday 22 July, Greater London CAMRA’s Young Members group (CYM) held their first post-lockdown social, a visit to the Ram Inn and the SlyBeast Brewery in Wandsworth.
Readers may recall that, a year ago, CYM helped SlyBeast to dispose of three firkins of their Beam Engine pale ale which otherwise would have gone to waste. The event was reported here. Those receiving the beer all chipped in towards its cost but the brewery would not take the money. Instead, they very kindly put it behind the bar ready for when the CYM could come and spend it. That day had arrived!
Lee and Keris DeVilliers, the tenants of the Ram Inn, are not resting on the laurels of the pub’s history as the former Young’s brewery tap but have a clear vision and a contribution to make to the future of brewing in London. This event was, hopefully, the first of many collaborations with CAMRA. Lee and Keris are also tenants of two other pubs in the area, the Old Sergeant and the Pig & Whistle. Both were included in the recent sale of the Ram Pub Company, as was the Ram Inn, thus ending the couple’s long association with Young’s.
On the evening, we were treated to two ‘never seen before’, exclusive brews: a dry hopped version of their flagship Beam Engine pale ale and a cask version of their Swamp Donkey NEIPA, alongside their usual range of fine beers. My personal favourite is Stargazer. Their chef also treated us to a range of delicious snacks, showcasing his culinary skills.
Turnout, as to be expected, was modest. In anticipation however we had opened the event to CAMRA members of all ages so there were enough of us to make this event both worthwhile and memorable.
Many thanks to all who attended and cheers to everyone who is supporting their local pubs and breweries.
Details of the brewery’s beers can be found here.
Navindh Baburam