The Kernel Brewery London – Table Beer: A Decade of Craftsmanship

In the heart of Bermondsey, London, The Kernel Brewery has been crafting exceptional beers since its inception. Among their diverse range, Table Beer stands out as a testament to the brewery's commitment to quality and innovation. First brewed in 2012, Table Beer was conceived with a simple yet ambitious goal: to create a low-alcohol beer that didn't compromise on flavour or body.

The Inspiration Behind Table Beer

The concept of Table Beer was inspired by the British cask ale tradition, which emphasises sessionability and drinkability. Founder Evin O’Riordain sought to brew a beer that could be enjoyed over extended periods without overwhelming the palate. As he shared with Pellicle Magazine, "Table Beer is our attempt to do a cask beer" . This philosophy led to a beer that is both refreshing and full of character, challenging the notion that low-alcohol beers are lacking in depth.

🛠️ Brewing Process and Ingredients

Table Beer is a light pale ale, typically around 3% ABV, brewed with malted barley and rolled oats. The use of oats contributes to a fuller mouthfeel, ensuring the beer doesn't feel thin despite its lower alcohol content. The brewing process involves an elevated mash temperature, which helps create long-chain sugars that yeast cannot ferment, adding body to the beer .

The hops used in Table Beer vary from batch to batch, depending on availability, seasonality and brewers choice. This variability ensures that each release offers a unique tasting experience while maintaining the beer's signature balance of malt sweetness and hop aroma. The yeast strain used is an American ale yeast, chosen for its clean fermentation profile that allows the hops to shine.

🍻 Flavor Profile

Table Beer presents a pale golden colour with a subtle malt sweetness that supports the fresh hop character. The bitterness is clean and refreshing, providing a balanced finish. Despite its low ABV, the beer delivers an intensity of flavour that belies its strength. As noted by Pellicle Magazine, "Without particularly bold flavors or a high ABV, Table Beer has little to hide behind" . This transparency highlights the quality of ingredients and the precision of the brewing process.

🔄 Evolution and Consistency

Over the years, Table Beer has evolved, with each batch offering subtle variations in hop character. However, the core attributes—low alcohol, full body, and balanced flavour—have remained consistent. This consistency has earned Table Beer a dedicated following among beer enthusiasts and is now one of The Kernel Brewery's most popular offerings. 

🍽️ Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Table Beer is designed to be a versatile companion to a variety of dishes. Its moderate alcohol content and balanced flavour profile make it an excellent pairing with cheeses, charcuterie, and light salads. The beer's refreshing qualities also make it suitable for casual sipping on a warm day or as a palate cleanser between courses.

🛒 Availability

Table Beer is available in both 330ml and 500ml bottles via The Kernel Brewery's online shop. For those in London, the Spa Road venue offers 500ml bottles as well as a permanent line of Table Beer on draught. 

To find out more about The Kernel Brewery's Spa Road Venue, check out their Instagram by clicking the button below.