Getting to know one of Yorkshire’s finest in just five question…
For those who don’t know, when, where and why was BAD Co. founded? And what was the first beer you ever brewed?
BAD Co. was founded back in 2014 and came from a love of the American craft beer scene, seeing the then unusual styles of beer and the big bold flavours they had. Starting on a small 100 litre home-brew kit, which was located in the kitchen of a craft beer bar in Knaresborough. Our first beer, Pale Aura, or Comfortably Numb as it was called then, was created here, and has since become our core range American style Pale Ale!
How have things changed for BAD Co. since those early days?
Since those early days, we have now moved into our new home which is in Dishforth, starting with a 10 barrel brew kit in one unit, we have expanded over the last six years to a 40 barrel brew kit and three units which house our brewhouse, packing warehouse and storage unit. We are now producing in excess of three millions pints per year!
We’re delighted to be featuring Wild Gravity, Pale Aura and BAD Co. Lager in our beers of the month, what can you tell us about these beers and their recipes?
Wild Gravity is our take on your classic West Coast IPA. At 5.2% it showcases everything you would expect from that style of beer. Light mmber in colour, a sweet malty backbone, big heavy hop additions really to let the citrus fruit flavours come through ending with a subtle bitter finish. This is another product which has been part of our range since its creation and has won a number of awards for us!
Pale Aura is a beer that holds a special place here at Bad Co. Being the first beer produced, this 3.8% American Pale is easy drinking and sessionable, the go-to for when you’re nipping in for a quick pint. Keeping things simple with a nice clean malt base which gives light, crisp and refreshing flavours and is the foundation for showcasing the flavours and aromas of tropical fruit with undertones of mango and grapefruit.
BAD Co. Lager was first brewed in 2019, wanting to mix the traditional ingredients with modern processes to create a craft lager which is clean, crisp and offers maximum refreshment and lasting flavour. We have kept the recipe simple and really let the ingredients do the talking on this one!
What does the rest of 2021 hold in store for the brewery? Any new beers that people should be on the lookout for?
We have lots of exciting things happening here at the brewery. Last year we bought a new trial brew kit so our brewers can test and experiment with new ideas and recipes. The brewers have been keeping busy and working hard in the background developing lots of interesting and unusual products and lesser-known beer styles. Keep your eyes peeled!
And finally, is there anything you’d like the Flavourly community to know about BAD Co? Especially if trying your beers for the first time?
We are very proud to still be an independent family-owned Yorkshire Brewery. Our aim is to produce craft beers that appeal to everyone, we strive to be creative and consistent in what we do whilst moving forwards and being driven by the ever-changing market.