Irving Best Bitter

Irving is Tooth & Nail’s take on best bitter, a British pub-ale tradition whose name promises something rather different from today’s hop-heavy IPAs. “Best” is a traditional style designation, sitting between ordinary bitter and the stronger extra special bitter. The appeal of the style is balance: malt and hops sharing the stage rather than competing for the loudest voice.

Bring Irving to the table with a wedge of mature cheddar, a pork pie, or sausages with mustard. Those savoury, pub-inspired pairings are a good place to start with a best bitter. Pour it into a glass and give it a little time out of the fridge before settling in.