In a refreshing twist to the summer, two of the UK’s historic breweries, Arkell’s Brewery of Swindon and Donnington Brewery, have announced an exciting collaboration. This partnership, steeped in shared passion and heritage, has resulted in a unique beer that showcases the craftsmanship and brewing traditions of both breweries.
Arkell’s Brewery, Swindon’s oldest business and one of the UK’s remaining 29 family breweries, has joined hands with Donnington Brewery, a stalwart in the industry since 1865. The collaboration has birthed a beer that is unlike anything either company has produced independently.
Donnington Brewery, renowned for its signature taste derived from a special spring water, has brought its traditional milling, mashing, and boiling techniques to the table. The unfermented brew was then transported to Arkell’s Brewery, where it underwent fermentation using specialist lager tanks and house lager yeast.
The result? A 4 per cent ABV cask lager, affectionately named Donkels – a playful nod to the German Dunkel style and a clever blend of both breweries’ names. Donkels is characterised by its light, refreshing, and crisp profile, with a depth of flavour and sweetness that is perfectly complemented by a soft condition from natural cask carbonation.
Alex Arkell, Head Brewer at Arkell’s Brewery, expressed his excitement about the new brew, saying, “The collaboration with Donnington has allowed us to explore a new flavour brew while honouring our rich histories. The combined expertise of Arkell’s and Donnington, boasting a collective 340 years of brewing heritage, has produced a beer that is both traditional and innovative.”
John Arkell of Donnington Brewery echoed this sentiment, stating, “This collaboration has been a remarkable journey for both of our breweries. The Donkels cask lager is a testament to what can be achieved when two historic breweries come together with a shared vision.”
This unique brew is a seasonal special and will be available at participating venues this August. So, for all you beer lovers in Swindon and beyond, get ready to experience this perfect blend of classic and contemporary brewing techniques. Cheers to a summer of unique flavours and shared heritage!
Image: Arkell’s Brewery
