Sharp’s Brewery at Rock on the north Cornish coast was established as a hobby by Bill Sharp only in 1994, but in its brief history has become the largest cask beer brewer in the South West.

In 2003, a controlling share was bought by Nick Baker and Joe Keohane, businessmen with ambitions to turn the premium draught bitter, Doom Bar into a national brand.

Such has been their success that earlier this year they sold their stake at a handsome profit to none other than the mighty Coors.

Let’s hope that this does not lead to Sharp’s becoming a “one beer” brewery, as this week’s feature, Monsieur Rock is an absolute gem.

The beer is the result of a collaboration between Sharp’s head brewer Stuart Howe and Jean-Marie Rock, head brewer at the famous Trappist monastery brewery at Orval in Belgium.

It has been formulated to showcase the qualities of the Saaz hop variety, and of extended lagering periods (eight weeks in this instance).

The beer is shiny pale gold in colour and pours with a deep white head. The aroma is delicate, subtle and delightful with elderflower upfront, some citrus peel, a very soft herbal bitterness and just a hint of something spicy. The flavour is equally beguiling, dry with peachy fruit, a little honey, and a gentle orange undertow, all of this wrapped in a light, foamy carbonation, finishing fresh and crisp.

Gorgeous stuff…a showcase beer indeed!