October 2009 – Campaign for Real Ale’s research shows that 50% of all adult drinkers have now tried real ale, compared to just 35% in 2008.

Within that, figures show that in male drinkers, 67% have now tried real ale, compared to 50% in 2008, and that 30% of women drinkers have now tried real ale, compared to only 16% in 2008.

Tapping into the UK’s growing curiosity for quality beer and real ale, chefs of The Grove (www.thegrove.co.uk) in Hertfordshire have been working closely with respected beer writer, Melissa Cole, to develop some outstanding and intriguing beer and food combinations as part of an October festival to run from the 19 to 31 October 2009.

Cole’s shortlist of artisan brews, including the famous Oktoberfest Löwenbräu Keller and a variety of lagers, bitters, draft beers and stouts from across the globe, will be available at each of The Grove’s restaurants – The Glasshouse, Colette’s and The Stables. New dishes (canapés, starters, main courses and desserts) have been created exclusively for the two week promotion, each with a recommended brew such as: Deus Champagne Beer with Honey spiced pork belly with a pumpkin and chestnut puree; Salt & pepper scallops on pea and watercress crush and Slow roasted guinea fowl; Sierra Nevada Pale Ale with mini bone marrow burgers; and a Williams Brother’s Grozet with Scottish steak wraps with gooseberry chutney.

The Grove is confident that the matching will not only whet the appetite of even the most adamant non-beer drinker, but continue to raise the profile of beer within the UK.

Bookings can be made by calling 0044(0)1923 294237 or emailing restaurants@thegrove.co.uk