North East Beer Review

I bought this from a cool little sandwich shop in York. I thought this was a cool brew and even though I am not the biggest fan of rhubarb and custard I still wanted to try it. I was recommended this as-well later that day in the Handley Tap. I must say this tasted particularly interesting and I will tell you what I think late in this review. So during this review of Brew York Rhubarbra Streisand Pale Ale I will cover the history of Brew York and beer, the pour, the taste and aroma and finally, my verdict.

A hobby which turned into a brewery

Brew York was founded in 2016 in York by Wayne Smith and Lee Grabham. The duo originally had met on a stag do and realised they shared a hobby for modern craft beer styles. Brew York began life within a shed before expanding to what it is today. Operating a city centre brewery and taproom, later expanding to Oswaldwick with the Handley Tap.

The brewery is known for its playful nature such as branding and styles. The use of puns influenced by pop culture, film and Yorkshire history often drives people to their brews. These can include the likes of Juice Forsyth, Dame Judi Quench and the topic of this review… Rhubarbra Streisand. This helped forge Brew York’s reputation by building up its identity and name factor within the UK craft beer scene.

Rhubarbra Streisand is one of Brew York’s best known beers and is cemented as part of their core lineup. Keeping to the Brew York spirit, the name is a pun of Barbara Streisand, singer and actress. Originally brewed as a milkshake-style pale ale, the beer combines rhubarb with creamy vanilla and lactose-inspired sweetness to recreate the nostalgic flavour of traditional British rhubarb and custard sweets. More recent versions have evolved into a rhubarb and custard pale ale while keeping the same sweet-tart balance that made the beer popular.

The beer has crafted a loyal following for its tarty rhubarb flavour with many describing it as “nostalgia in a can” comparing it to the type of boiled sweet. It has also helped Brew York gain extra exposure when it was stocked in a supermarket in the early 2020’s.

A lively and foamy brew

Rhubarbra Streisand pours a golden to yellow colour which has a slight haze and glowing appearance. It forms a light and bubbly head which has a decent level of retention. Thus, leaving a light ring of lacing down the glass. The carbonation is very lively but still smooth with a steady stream of bubbles rising consistently. Overall, a very full, hazy and juicy appearance.

A tarty rhubarb flavour profile

Aroma

Rhubarbra Streisand opens with a sweet aroma which has the distinct flavour of rhubarb. Honestly, what you will notice is the unmistakable smell of rhubarb and custard sweets which is of course flavours of rhubarb and vanilla. There is a subtle citrus flavour which is from the hop profile, adding an extra level of depth without overwhelming the rhubarb and custard flavour. Overall, a sweet, confectionery type pour.

Taste

The flavour of Brew York Rhubarbra Streisand follows the aroma directly. First, the unmistakable tarty rhubarb brings a sweet and fresh nature. There is a creamy vanilla and slight malt note helps balance the sweetness out as well as completing the rhubarb and custard character. The body is soft and juicy which helps carry the hop bitterness on the finish. Overall, the beer is smooth and extremely drinkable. This almost feels more like a liquid dessert more than a beer. Think a liquid form of rhubarb and custard sweets.

Time for my verdict

This beer is fun reminder to your childhood of buying rhubarb and custard sweets. Even though I am not the biggest fan of rhubarb and custard I still found this absolutely delicious. This is extremely sweet but remarkably balanced in which I understand why it has garnered the reputation and respect. I got recommended it in the Handley Tap when trying Povodni Mož and I understand why. I did enjoy this brew considering so that is why I rate this 4.25 out of 5.

Where did I purchase this beer?

I bought this as a takeaway can from Zibby’s in York when purchasing a sandwich with my girlfriend.

Thank you for reading this review. If you enjoyed my review please checkout my review of Freyr’s Bounty.