Day 21: Full Power
Brewery Name: Lough Gill Brewery
Beer Style: Extra Special Bitter (ESB)
ABV: 5%
Country: Ireland
Tasting Notes
Dive into the sensory experience of Full Power.
- Appearance: Deep copper hue with a clear body and a frothy off-white head.
- Aroma: Inviting scents of caramel malt sweetness complemented by earthy hop undertones.
- Flavour: A harmonious blend of moderate caramel malt sweetness and balanced hop bitterness, offering a traditional ESB profile.
- Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a smooth texture, leading to a satisfying and clean finish.
Full Power stands out as a faithful rendition of Lough Gill Brewery’s inaugural brew, showcasing a perfect marriage of malts and hops that pays homage to classic ESB traditions.
About the Brewery: Lough Gill Brewery
Get to know the creators behind Full Power.
- History and Legacy: Established in Sligo, Ireland, Lough Gill Brewery revived the town’s brewing heritage after a century-long hiatus. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them recognition, including a gold medal at the Concours International de Lyon.
- Philosophy: Dedicated to crafting exceptional beers that honour traditional styles while embracing modern techniques, all inspired by the Wild Atlantic Way.
- Notable Creations: Beyond Full Power, their portfolio includes award-winning brews like Pain & Perfection Pastry Sour and Andersons Irish Red Ale.
The History of Extra Special Bitter (ESB)
Explore the roots of this timeless beer style.
- Origins: Emerging in England during the 19th century, ESBs were crafted as premium versions of standard bitters, offering more robust flavours and higher alcohol content.
- Evolution: Over time, ESBs have maintained their classic profile while inspiring brewers worldwide to create their interpretations, blending tradition with local influences.
- Key Characteristics: Typically featuring an ABV ranging from 4.5% to 5.5%, ESBs present a balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, with flavours of caramel, toffee, and earthy hops.
- Global Appeal: Celebrated for their balanced and approachable nature, ESBs have garnered international appreciation, with breweries globally crafting their versions of this classic English style.
If You Like This Beer, You Might Also Enjoy…
Expand your horizons within this style.
If Full Power excites your taste buds, you’ll love exploring other beers in this range. Here are a few recommendations:
- Landlord Pale Ale by Timothy Taylor – A renowned pale ale offering a complex balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, delivering a quintessential British beer experience.
- Irish Pale Ale by Heaney – A refreshing pale ale that combines traditional brewing methods with modern hop varieties, resulting in a crisp and flavourful brew.
- Fursty Ferret Ordinary Bitter by Badger – A classic English bitter with nutty and malty notes, providing a smooth and satisfying pint.
Discover these and more to continue your journey through the rich world of Extra Special Bitters.
Share Your Experience
Love Full Power? Snap a picture and share your thoughts on social media using #TheCruIE and tag us to let us know what you think! We’d love to see how you’re enjoying this Extra Special Bitter.

