The Old Man of Coniston is a mountain in the English Lake District (though Americans might describe it as more of a large hill), that can be seen from the Coniston Brewery at the Black Bull Inn, a comfy little place tastefully set on the lakeshore. This softly-rounded landmark in England’s most picturesque region is the inspiration for Old Man Ale, Coniston Brewing Company’s rich and satisfying second brew. Old Man is bottle-conditioned; the live yeast in the bottle keeps the beer fresh, lively, and flavorful. The trouble with so many English beers sent over here in bottles is that pasteurization kills the yeast and the natural fermentation process, leaving the beer stale and flat right from the start. Old Man is darker, richer, maltier counterpart to Bluebird’s signature hoppiness. 4.4% abv