The romantic aura of an exciting historical time-period fogs your senses as you contemplate the shipyards of the past. Stories of monks as they operated ferries to transport cattle across rivers…an active pre-industrial-revolution assembly line in Italy, where production of a ship each day was the norm…a mix of sail and steam ships in England…the dressing of battleships as they were fitted with cannons, guns, and firearms.

Shipyard Brewing of Portland, Maine USA has brought that romance into the 21st century, while still preserving the proud heritage of the past with Export Ale – that sweet, golden nectar-of-the-gods with a distinctively subtle hop bite. Whispy aromas of herbal hops and sweet malt greet your nose, preparing you for the light flavors of biscuit that follow in the full-bodied base. The finish is clean and dry, coaxing you into another go-around with this seductive beauty.

Shipyard’s flagship beer has held Export enthusiasts captive for 13 years. Its enduring status deserves center stage, and has earned the honor of a stunning new look – bolder fonts, bright colors, and the crisp, clean image of Shipyard’s famous trademark schooner.

Along with Export Ale, master brewer and co-founder Alan Pugsley creates over 13 signature beers worthy of Master’s Quarter Awards.

Perhaps it’s in his soul! Born in Great Britain, Pugsley apprenticed under the world-famous Peter Austin, known in brewers’ circles as the grandfather of the craft-brewing movement. Austin founded Ringwood Brewery in Hampshire, England. As a steam-rolling team of incredible energy, Austin and Pugsley set-up stage for over 120 breweries in seventeen countries across the globe.

In 1994, Pugsley joined forces with entrepreneur Fred Forsley, christening Shipyard Brewery as an echoing beam of brewing-heaven on the Portland waterfront. Incredible passion for brewing is the norm for this North American gem. Shipyard has enjoyed a 25% growth in the past two years, a feat that is not easily ignored in the industry.

Old Thumper is a rich amber walnut with coppery-gold highlights. This Extra Special/ Strong Bitter was created in 1979 by Peter Austin himself, and has earned fame as a British Grand Champion Beer. Brewed in the traditional style, this brew has a distinctively toasted, nutty, caramel profile, with a hint of hop bitterness for a balance that is as perfect as a showman on a highwire.

Blue Fin Stout is a spectacular Irish stout as black as the inky depths of the sea. A thick, tan, fluffy head holds the body captive, until you release its nutty, earthy-chocolate profile of hazelnuts and caramel. Chewy as liquid bread, the finish is long with velvety tones.

Chamberlain Pale Ale is pure gold in a 22-ounce bomber. Whiffs of malt are tempered by hop spiciness and fruity complexity, beneath a fluffy off-white head and ample lacing.  As part of the Captain’s Collection, this stands on its own as a crisp winner.

In the collectors’ corner, Battleground Ale stands its ground, as it showcases the 2003 remembrance of the 140th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The clear golden hue delivers light herbal bitterness within a malt backbone. Look for artist Ken Hendricksen’s twelve different portraits of Civil War generals from the North and South (Armistead, Chamberlain, Cleburne, Custer, Gordon, Grant, Hancock, Jackson, Lee, Sherman, Stuart and Thomas).

Shipyard gives tribute to the notable Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a Portland native with a character as distinctive as the hybrid brew. Longfellow Winter Ale is the delightful merging of porter and Scottish ale profiles, bearing a bold roasted barley framework, accented by a hoppy aroma and long, dry finish.

Seek out other Grand Champions at Shipyard. You may discover your own lifelong partner in the reflection of Prelude Special Ale or Brewer’s Choice.

Cheers!