Overview: Britain’s oldest brewer Shepherd Neame expands its popular portfolio with the launch of Bishops Finger IPA Reserve. This golden, vibrant beer joins the lineup alongside the original strong ale, which has been brewed since 1958. The release is available in select supermarkets and pubs from mid-November.
The Full Story
Shepherd Neame, based in Faversham, Kent for over 300 years, continues to invest in its award-winning collection of beers. The new addition features contemporary branding developed with global creative agency Thirst, building on the refreshed identity introduced for Bishops Finger in 2025. While maintaining a strong visual connection to the original, IPA Reserve stands out with distinctive green packaging.
Mike Unsworth, Director of Brewing, noted that the team is continually investing in their award-winning collection. He stated that Bishops Finger remains one of the most popular beers in the portfolio. The new beer delivers a contemporary, flavour-led take on the IPA style, combining bright citrus notes with caramel depth and a smooth, satisfying bitterness.
Production & Profile
Crafted by the experienced brewing team behind the original Kentish Strong Ale Bishops Finger, the Reserve is available in 500ml bottles at 5.5% ABV and in cask at 4.6% ABV. The distinctive green packaging highlights a hand-drawn illustration of Canterbury Cathedral, located less than 10 miles from Shepherd Neame’s historic brewery.
Brand & Industry History
First brewed in 1958, Bishops Finger was the first strong ale produced by the independent brewer and pub company following 20 years of maltrationing. The name takes its inspiration from an ancient Kentish signpost on the Pilgrims’ Way, which pointed travellers towards the shrine of Thomas à Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. The iconic branding features a reimagined Shepherd Neame monogram inspired by the company’s heritage as Britain’s oldest brewer.
What This Means
Director Mike Unsworth expressed pride in introducing Bishops Finger IPA Reserve as a new addition to the collection. The release is designed to appeal to those who already enjoy Bishops Finger while attracting new customers to the beers. It is hoped to become a Kentish classic in the making through this modern, vibrant offering.
Consumer Takeaway
Available from mid-November at selected Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose supermarkets, the beer will also be available across Shepherd Neame pubs. The release offers drinkers access to a golden, vibrant IPA crafted by an experienced team with a heritage spanning over 300 years in Faversham.
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