Wells Bombardier
No ratings yet — be the first to log it.
Tasting Notes
Bombardier leads with a biscuity, malt-forward aroma carrying hints of toffee and a faint earthiness from English hops. On the palate it's firmly malty with notes of caramel and dried fruit, balanced by a moderate hop bitterness that's more herbal and spicy than citrusy. The body is medium, with a texture that feels substantial without being heavy. The finish is moderately dry with a lingering biscuit note and a gentle hop bite.
About the Brewery
Wells Brewery is based in Bedford, England, with roots stretching back to 1876, making it one of the older regional breweries still operating in the UK. It merged with Young's of London in 2006 to form Wells & Young's, though the brands have since been reorganized. The brewery is particularly associated with its cask ale tradition and distribution across UK pubs, with Bombardier being its flagship and most recognized product.
Food Pairings
A Ploughman's lunch is a natural match, as the malt and bitterness cut through sharp cheddar and pickle without overwhelming them. Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding works well because the caramel malt notes echo the savory, browned meat flavors. Bangers and mash benefit from the beer's earthiness complementing pork and onion gravy. A steak and kidney pie pairs cleanly, with the medium body standing up to the rich pastry and filling without clashing.
Style Guide
English Pale Ale is built around domestic malt character rather than hop intensity, distinguishing it sharply from American pale ales that prioritize citrus and tropical hop aroma. It typically sits in the 4-5% ABV range, features a firm biscuit and caramel malt backbone, and uses English hop varieties like Fuggles or Goldings for earthy, herbal bitterness. The style originated in Burton-on-Trent in the 19th century, where the sulfate-rich water amplified hop dryness, and it remains the backbone of British cask ale culture.