Ale from archaeology as University of Leicester and Everards revive beers from Leicestershire’s past

The University of Leicester and Everards Brewery have jointly launched the first of a new series of heritage beers, crafted from ancient recipes unearthed by the University’s archaeologists.

Great British Bake Off finalist and University chemist Dr Josh Smalley has joined forces with the University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) and Everards’ experienced brewing team to recreate beers dating back as far as 3,000 years.

Inspired by research from ULAS, each of the anticipated four beers represents a key period in Leicestershire’s history that the archaeologists have shone light on through their work.

The first beer in the series, Meadow Edge, is inspired by Iron Age brewing traditions and takes its name from Everards Meadows, where the brewery is situated. Brewed using heritage barley, Meadow Edge features juniper and rosehip as natural bittering ingredients, with nettles, elderflower and blackberries contributing to the fresh hedgerow character and complex flavour profile.

ULAS conducted routine investigations on the site of the brewery before its construction in 2015, where they discovered a unique bark shield from the Iron Age, the only one of its kind ever found in Europe. Now housed in the British Museum, it features as the centrepiece of the Meadow Edge label, designed by Everards’ expert team. 

Matthew Beamish from University of Leicester Archaeological Services said: “The discovery of the bark shield in 2015 as part of the routine examination of the Everards Meadows site was just the start of long process of understanding quite what had been found, how it had been made, and what it might have meant to the Iron Age people living here – and that story is not finished. Thanks to the support of Everards and the expertise and enthusiasm of University of Leicester researchers the shield has helped inspire another different project and another story - one which many people will enjoy – and I look forward to tasting the result!” 

The new beer was launched at an event at Everards Brewery on Friday 10 July, attended by staff from the University of Leicester, Everards staff and members of the public. Matthew Beamish, the ULAS archaeologist who led the analysis of the Everards Meadow site, presented the brewery with a replica of the iconic bark shield.

Julian Everard, Chairman, Everards of Leicestershire, said: “As a Leicestershire family brewery we are always delighted to collaborate with local partners.  This story begins years ago with the excavation of the Enderby Shield at our Everards Meadows site.  We’ve enjoyed the opportunity to work with the University of Leicester team to tell this story through beer! The University team’s extensive research and passion together with our amazing brewers has resulted in a really interesting pint.”

Dr Josh Smalley, Science Communication and Engagement Champion at the University of Leicester, said: “This has been a fantastic collaborative project with Everards of Leicestershire, bringing together research, archaeology, heritage, culture and community engagement. As we explore Leicestershire’s past through the recreation of these heritage beers, we’re exploring not only historic botanicals and brewing techniques, but also the everyday lives of the people who brewed and drank them - from changing cooking methods and food traditions to the social customs that brought communities together. 

“It has been incredibly rewarding to see such an enthusiastic response already, particularly when we unveiled the project at the Nevill Holt Festival last month. We’ll be sharing the project’s progress through our blog, and I’m excited to see people continue follow the journey as it develops and of course, come and taste the beers for themselves!”

Meadow Edge is available at the following pubs across the East Midlands, while stocks last:

• Globe, Leicester
• Queen Vic, Syston
• Stamford Arms, Groby
• Dead poets, Holbrook
• Brunswick Inn, Derby
• Robin Hood and Little John, Arnold