Caley brews legendary rugby figure’s fund-raising ale
Legendary Scottish rugby union commentator Bill McLaren will long be remembered for his outstanding contribution to the sport through his many years behind the microphone. Now rugby fans can raise a glass of Bill’s beer in celebration of the 90th anniversary of ‘the voice of rugby’, brewed a stones-throw from Bill’s old Murrayfield Stadium commentary position, at Edinburgh’s famous Caledonian Brewery.
Linda Lawson, Bill's daughter, and Alan Lawson, Bill's son-in-law and former Scottish Rugby International raise a glass of the new commemorative ale at the Caledonian Brewery.
Available in 500 ml bottles, the 4.5% ABV Strong Pale Ale carries one of Bill’s famous lines, “cunning as a bag o’ weasels” on the label and is described as “classic style with a cunning balance of malt and hop characters and a local twist”.
Caledonian’s National Account Manager Steve Ricketts says the historic Edinburgh Brewery is proud to have been chosen to brew the special commemorative beer. “Bill’s beer is a nod to an iconic, inspirational figure. We’re proud to be associated with such a rugby legend and to support the great work of the Bill McLaren Foundation. A percentage from every bottle sold will go directly to support its activities.”
Bill’s Son-In-Law Alan Lawson commented “It’s a lovely beer and I like the idea of people who enjoyed Bill’s commentary enjoying a bottle of Bill’s whilst watching the rugby.” He continued, “I’ve been to the Caley on a number of occasions and the passion, history and tradition is a terrific fit with the values of both the sport of rugby and the Bill McLaren Foundation.”
Bill’s beer bottles are available from Vino Wines who have three stores in Edinburgh and the Caledonian Beer online shop www.caledonianbeer.com/shop .
More stockists are expected to be announced shortly.
