An exclusive tasting of the new Thornbridge Union IPA will be held at CAMRA’s St Albans beer and cider festival on Friday 27 September  when Roger Protz (above right) will be in conversation with head brewer Rob Lovatt (pictured left).

They will discuss the history of the Burton union fermentation system, designed in the 19th century to cleanse beer of yeast and produce sparkling pale ale.

In January this year, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company announced it was closing the last of the union sets in Burton, but it agreed to donate one set to Thornbridge. Brewers from Marton’s went to Thornbridge's Bakewell brewery to install the set where Rob and his team can now brew special beers, including a union version of the best-selling Jaipur IPA.

Union IPA will be available at the St Albans festival, along with other Thornbridge beers. There will be two events at the Alban Arena on the Friday 27 at 6 and 7pm.

On Wednesday 25 February, Roger will also be in action, hosting a tasting of Harvey’s brewery beers with head brewer Miles Jenner.

Full details including tickets: www.stalbansbf.org.uk