Reviewing a four-pack of beer isn’t the kind of thing I tend to say no to. So when Suffolk brewers Calvors asked me if I’d oblige, I duly did. Here’s my lowdown on their range of tasty, alternative lagers…

Amber 4.0%
Calvors Amber is distinctive and tastes a bit different to normal lager, due to dark malts mixed with light ones. It smells quite pungent but once you get over this, it’s a great alternative to traditional pub lagers.

Premium 5.0%
My sort of beverage. Premium has a classic flavour, colour and aroma and is really refreshing. It doesn’t taste like a 5% beer, more like a Becks Vier. This is a really good summer lager.

(Interlude - strong cheddar sandwich with chutney.)

Dark 4.5%
Suprisingly good (although I am now a little tipsy). The idea of dark lager is a bit perverse, and the initial aroma and colour is off-putting. But the more you drink of this, the better it gets. A greater depth of flavour than the others, and 4.5% means it’s not too heavy.

3.8 3.8%
Very similar to the Premium but without the monster-inducing alcohol content. More for the smooth gentleman that doesn’t need to get drunk in order to talk to a lady. Good stuff and probably a better bet for all-day beer garden frivolities than its older cousin.

In general… No info on how to serve (I assume chilled but guidance would be appreciated). But, it goes without saying that this is Suffolk lager, so you should try it on that basis alone. Anyone who enjoys a drop of Aspells (Suffolk) cider now and then will know how good local brews can be. This is as good, and will soon be sweeping round the local pubs as people cotton on to the fact. Check out where to buy Calvors lagers now. HF