Top 5 Adnams Beers to Try This Winter: Cozy Up with Suffolk’s Finest Seasonal Brews

Winter is the season for hearty meals, crackling fires, and beers that wrap you in warmth. As the temperature drops, your palate craves deeper, richer flavors—think dark malts, roasted notes, and subtle spices. Adnams, the celebrated Suffolk brewer, offers a range of winter-ready beers that pair beautifully with festive foods and cozy nights in. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their brews, this guide highlights five must-try Adnams beers to see you through the coldest months.

From the iconic Broadside to limited seasonal releases, each beer brings something unique to your glass. And because great beer deserves great food, we’ll also suggest pairings from the Adnams kitchen, including chutneys, preserves, and sharing boards that elevate the experience. Get ready to warm up with these top winter picks.

1. Adnams Broadside – The Classic Winter Warmer

No list of winter beers is complete without Adnams Broadside. This strong dark ale (4.7% ABV) is a Suffolk icon, brewed with a blend of pale, crystal, and chocolate malts that deliver a deep mahogany color and a robust, malty profile. Hints of dried fruit, toffee, and a gentle bitterness from English hops make it the perfect companion for cold evenings. Originally created to commemorate the Battle of Sole Bay, Broadside has been warming hearts for decades.

Pair Broadside with rich, savory foods. It cuts through the creaminess of a mature cheddar or complements the sweetness of roasted root vegetables. For a true winter treat, serve it alongside a Charcuterie Brewer's Board plus, x3-thirds of Adnams beer, which combines cured meats, cheeses, and crusty bread. The beer’s malt backbone stands up to salty prosciutto and tangy pickles, making every bite a celebration.

• Try Broadside slightly cellared (around 12°C) to unlock its full fruit and malt complexity.

2. Adnams Old Ale – A Rich, Cellar-Worthy Stout

For those who crave a darker, more contemplative brew, Adnams Old Ale is a winter essential. This 6.3% ABV strong ale pours almost black, with aromas of dark chocolate, roasted barley, and a hint of liquorice. It’s a beer that rewards patience—age it for a few months and the flavors mellow into a smooth, sherry-like warmth. Perfect for sipping by the fire after a long day.

Old Ale’s boldness demands equally robust accompaniments. Pair it with a slice of Adnams Broadside Christmas Pudding, 900gm, which echoes the beer’s dark fruit notes. The pudding’s spices and brandy butter create a decadent dessert pairing. Alternatively, enjoy it with a strong blue cheese like Stilton for a classic combination that highlights the beer’s roasted edge.

• Old Ale is excellent with dark chocolate desserts—try it alongside the Adnams x H&J Chocolate Truffle Selection Box for a luxurious finish.

3. Adnams Ghost Ship – A Bright Pale Ale for Winter Evenings

Winter doesn’t mean you have to abandon pale ales. Adnams Ghost Ship, at 4.5% ABV, offers a refreshing counterpoint to heavy winter fare. Its citrusy, floral hop character from English-grown Cascade and Citra hops brings a burst of brightness to the darkest months. The beer’s golden hue and crisp finish make it a versatile choice for lighter meals or as a palate cleanser between rich courses.

Ghost Ship pairs wonderfully with spiced chutneys and preserves. Spread Adnams Onion Chutney, made with Broadside beer, on a cheese toastie or a pork pie, and let the beer’s citrus cut through the sweetness. For a vegetarian option, try it with a Vegetarian Brewer's Board plus, x3-thirds of Adnams beer, featuring roasted nuts, pickled vegetables, and creamy goat cheese. The beer’s effervescence keeps each bite fresh.

• Ghost Ship is also a great cooking beer—use it in beer batter for fish or to deglaze a pan for winter stews.

4. Adnams Tally Ho – A Festive Strong Ale for Celebrations

When the holidays roll around, reach for Adnams Tally Ho. This 7.2% ABV strong ale is a winter warmer in every sense, with a deep ruby color and layers of malt, dark fruit, and a hint of spice. Originally brewed as a seasonal special, Tally Ho has become a festive favorite. Its high alcohol content provides a gentle warmth, while the complex flavor profile—think plum, raisin, and a touch of oak—makes it ideal for sipping slowly.

Tally Ho is a natural partner for Christmas desserts and cheeses. Pair it with Adnams Champagne & Strawberry Conserve on a slice of brie or camembert for a sweet-savory contrast. The conserve’s bubbles and strawberry brightness lift the beer’s richness. For a traditional finish, serve Tally Ho with a mince pie or Christmas pudding—the dried fruit notes in both will sing.

• Serve Tally Ho in a brandy snifter to concentrate its aromas and enhance the festive experience.

5. Adnams Mosaic Pale Ale – A Hop-Forward Winter Surprise

Hop lovers need not despair in winter. Adnams Mosaic Pale Ale (4.2% ABV) is a single-hop brew that bursts with tropical fruit and pine aromas, thanks to the Mosaic hop variety. Its light body and moderate bitterness make it an unexpected but delightful choice for cold weather. The beer’s juicy character—think mango, blueberry, and a hint of resin—adds a sunny note to gray days.

This pale ale pairs beautifully with spicy or tangy accompaniments. Try it with Adnams Cider Apple Chutney made with Wild Wave English Cider, which echoes the beer’s fruity profile. The chutney’s apple and cider vinegar tang complements the hop bitterness. For a simple snack, pair Mosaic Pale Ale with a sharp cheddar and apple slices—the beer’s citrus cuts through the fat, while the fruit highlights its tropical side.

• Mosaic Pale Ale is also excellent with Indian-inspired dishes like curry or spiced nuts—the hops stand up to heat.

Winter is the perfect time to explore the depth and variety of Adnams beers. Whether you prefer the classic richness of Broadside, the festive warmth of Tally Ho, or the bright surprise of Mosaic Pale Ale, there’s a brew for every mood and meal. Elevate your winter evenings by pairing these beers with gourmet accompaniments from the Adnams kitchen, such as the Adnams Onion Chutney made with Broadside beer or a Charcuterie Brewer's Board. Visit the Adnams online shop to stock up on these seasonal essentials and make this winter your most flavorful yet.