Old Speckled Hen is an amber-colored ale originally brewed by Morland Brewery to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the MG car factory in Abingdon-on-Thames. It is now produced by Greene King Brewery with an alcohol by volume of 4.8% in bottled and canned versions.
History
Old Speckled Hen takes its name from a 1927 experimental MG car nicknamed 'owd speck'ld un' due to its gold-speckled black cellulosed fabric body. In 1979, Morland & Co was asked to create a commemorative beer for the MG factory's 50th anniversary, brewing an amber pale ale at a gravity of 1050. After the MG factory closed in 1980, production declined but was revived in 1990 with great success. Greene King acquired Morland in 2000 and continues brewing the beer at their Bury St Edmunds facility.
How it is made
The original Old Speckled Hen is brewed using pale malts and hops to create its characteristic amber color and bitter taste. The bottled and canned versions have an ABV of 4.8%, while the cask version is 4.5% ABV. The brewing process has been adjusted over time, with a reduction in ABV in 2023 to accommodate production costs while maintaining the same taste profile.
Types and styles
The Old Speckled Hen brand has expanded to include several variations: Old Crafty Hen (6.5% ABV super premium ale), Old Golden Hen (4.1% golden ale), Old Hoppy Hen (4.2% pale ale), Old Speckled Hen Low Alcohol, GlutenFree Old Speckled Hen, Old Master Hen (7% ABV limited edition), and Old Session Hen (3.4% ABV). Each variation offers different taste characteristics while maintaining the brand's identity.
Availability
Old Speckled Hen is available in bottles, cans, casks, and kegs in more than twenty countries worldwide. The beer has been exported to numerous countries including the US, Australia, Canada, and various European nations. In the US, it is available in 32 states and reportedly popular in New York City. The brand has also gained international recognition, with 200 pints reportedly sold daily in a single pub in Singapore.