Following my move to Newcastle, it simply felt like a rite of passage to consume the much popular Geordie nectar. At the time of consumption, I was not an avid ale drinker, so my opinions were likely to be negative. I have since changed my opinions on ale as a beverage overall, however my opinions on the locally loved ‘newkie brown’ have not.
As we all know, tastes differ on anything and everything, however for a drink I believe to be lifeless and flat, I still see it in the hands of many around Newcastle upon-Tyne. So, this begs the question of why this drink I loathe so much is this popular?
Well, the easy answer is I am not the divine voice for reviewing drinks and my dislike for one drink will not sway the masses, however I do believe many are persuaded through the impactful marketing and branding that is tied with Newcastle Brown Ale.
Newcastle Brown Ale has typically attracted customers of an older generation, however my experience in pubs, particularly on a St James’ Park matchday, I will see consumers of varying ages opt to purchase this local brew.
Even though I am not a fan of Newcastle Brown, I would like to think I could still open my mind to it as I am still yet to try this drink on tap - the few times I have purchased it was in a bottle - which seems to be the opted method of serving in most bars and pubs around the toon.
The rule of thumb with alcohol is that it is quite simply of a higher quality when served from a tap, however with many other tap options available, Newcastle Brown still powers on as a local favourite.
It is at this point where I will make the claim that consumers are greatly persuaded by the branding and marketing of Newcastle Brown Ale.
The drink itself is not one that revolutionizes the taste buds, yet its ties with the city of Newcastle and its cultural icons works wonders for their sales.
One area the drink has become so heavily tied with is football, Newcastle United to be more specific. From 1990-2000 the toon army were sponsored by Newcastle Brown, and it can be said that the Brown Ale logo provides the Geordie faithful with positive memories of high form with Shearer and Keegan.
The unofficial ties Brown Ale and Newcastle United possess has provided success for their sales but I feel this cements my point that Brown Ale as a drink is one that is unpleasant.
The symbolic partnership between the two is a clear example of the power of marketing.
Newcastle Brown Ale will always be a staple of the city, it is etched into its fabric and that is a fact, it brings nostalgia and happy memories for many. Their recognisable branding and adoption of Newcastle iconography makes it a drink that may not satisfy the tastebuds, but instils positive northeastern imagery.
