Thornbridge: Brewing Heritage with Coalition Burton Ale

Thornbridge X Kernel Brewery : Burton Ale, 5.5%

Thornbridge Brewery X The Kernel Brewery - Burton Ale

In the summer of 2011, a truly unique brewing project came to life at Thornbridge. This wasn’t just any beer. It was a revival of something nearly lost to time. Brewed on the original 10-barrel kit, tucked away in an old outhouse on the grounds of Thornbridge Hall, the beer was aptly named Coalition. This brew marked a creative union, one born from deep conversations about tradition, style, and history.

The idea for Coalition originated during discussions between Dominic of Thornbridge Brewery and Evin from The Kernel Brewery. Their goal was clear: to resurrect a historical beer style that modern craft brewers had seldom explored. They turned to beer historian Ron Pattinson, a trusted authority on vintage brewing recipes and methods. His archives provided invaluable insight, setting the foundation for what would become a truly classic beer.

With Pattinson’s help, the team at Thornbridge selected a recipe dating back to 1922/23. It was a version of Courage KKK, known historically as a Burton Ale. These ales were rich, strong, and bitter, designed to age well and warm the soul. It was a perfect choice for this historical exploration.

The brewing team at Thornbridge committed to authenticity. They used Goldings hops, a classic English variety known for its floral and earthy notes. These hops provided the backbone of bitterness needed to balance the beer’s strength. The original batch of Coalition in 2011 clocked in at 7.3% ABV, a nod to the robust nature of Burton Ales.

One of the most defining elements of the beer was the use of Invert #3 sugar. This traditional brewing sugar helped create the deep, layered flavours typical of old-style English ales. Combined with Maris Otter malted barley, crystal malts, and a touch of dark malt for colour, the result was a full-bodied ale with complexity in every sip.

Coalition poured a dark ruby red, visually rich and inviting. Its flavour was a journey—starting with notes of red berries and hedgerow fruits, followed by caramel sweetness, dried dark fruits, and a firm, lasting bitterness. It was a beer that told a story with every taste. The depth of malt character provided warmth and balance, true to its roots.

What made this project so special was the intent behind it. At Thornbridge, brewing isn’t just about creating something new. It’s also about looking back, understanding where styles come from, and paying homage to tradition. This collaboration with Kernel and Ron Pattinson wasn’t just academic; it was passionate. The beer that resulted stood as a testament to thoughtful craftsmanship and historical respect.

Though Coalition was a limited release, it represents a larger ethos at work. Thornbridge is known not only for its innovation but, much like The Kernel Brewery, also for its deep respect for brewing heritage. Whether they’re exploring new styles or reviving old ones, they continue to push boundaries while honouring the past.

Brewing a beer like Coalition is no small feat. It demands research, patience, and a willingness to step outside the trends. But those challenges are embraced. The original 10-barrel kit may be small and rustic, but it remains a space where creativity and legacy collide.

For craft beer enthusiasts and history lovers alike, Coalition is a reminder that the past still has plenty to offer. And with breweries like Thornbridge leading the way, those stories will continue to be told, one brew at a time.

If you would like to read more about our other dark beer offerings, check out our 'Little Piece about: Dark Beers'