A Shot of Beer History #3: Macardle's Coronation Brew ...

In July 1911 this advertisement appeared in Dundalk, Dublin and national papers:

MACARDLE'S CORONATION BREW

Which was supplied under Contract to the Troops while encamped in the Phoenix Park during the King's Visit, has been so much appreciated that Macardle, Moore & Co Ltd, the Irish Army Brewers, Dundalk, have arranged for Special Brews of this Pure Pale Bitter Ale (1,053°), which they can deliver, carriage paid, to any Canteens or Messes in the Kingdom, at usual prices.

THE TRADE SUPPLIED.

The supply of ale and porter to the army by Irish breweries is far from unusual, as canteens were regularly supplied with local beers, but what is of interest here is that this this appears to be a specific ale brewed for the soldiers of the 'Irish Army' on duty - or more accurately, perhaps, off duty - during the visit of King George V to Ireland on his post coronation tour. What is also of interest is that we are told it is a pale bitter ale and that the original gravity was 1,053°, which depending on how well it fermented meant was probably between 5% and 6% alcohol by volume.

So if we are ever asked did an Irish brewery brew an ale to commemorate - in a way at least - the coronation of a British monarch we can say yes, Macardle, Moore & Co. certainly did, and we even know its style and alcohol content ...

Liam K

[Image from The Dundalk Examiner and Louth Advertiser -15th July 1911]

Please note, all written content and the research involved in publishing it here is my own unless otherwise stated and cannot be reproduced elsewhere without permission, full credit to its sources, and a link back to this post. Newspaper research was thanks to The British Newspaper Archive, who have kindly let me share the above image. DO NOT STEAL THIS CONTENT!