Playing by the rules

The WEST brewpub on Glasgow green (featured in the August issue) has always been proud to be the most German of  Scottish breweries, so it is of no surprise that they are behind the first British lager to be brewed under the Reinheitsgebot.

The St Mungo’s Lager is named after Glasgow’s patron saint and was launched last year to great acclaim. They are giving it a push in the run up to this year's Oktoberfest, with listings in a selection of pubs and multiples, making it easier than ever to get your hands on a case.

It pours a bright, vibrant gold topped with a fluffy, continental-style head. The nose is dominated by the shortbread biscuit aroma, common to all decent lagers.  The palate is light-to-medium bodied with a creamy texture and a crisp finish. It is on the dry side, with a hint of citrus fruit balanced by some gentle hop bitterness.

As a light Munich-style lager (or helles) it is most notable for what it lacks; it has none of the alcohol burn or gritty industrial edge that blights most UK-brewed lagers. Best of all, it is very competitively priced at around £1.50 a 33cl bottle.

James Wrobel is the proprietor of Cornelius Beer and Wine, 18-20 Easter Road and can be contacted on 0131 652 2405.