Brew York adds Hop Cat pale ale to its Signature cask range

Hop Cat is described by the brewery as a “a fresh, hop-forward pale ale designed specifically for cask.”

The “lively pale ale with a very subtle haze” is brewed exclusively with Citra hops.

The brewery’s tasting notes said: “It bursts from the glass with bright aromas of grapefruit zest, ripe mango, and hints of passion fruit.

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“On the palate, juicy citrus and tropical fruit lead the way, balanced by a clean, refreshing bitterness that keeps each sip crisp and inviting.”

The description continued: “A soft malt backbone and smooth mouthfeel allow the hops to take centre stage without overwhelming the palate.

“The gentle haze enhances the plush texture, while a dry, refreshing finish makes Hop Cat dangerously drinkable — perfect for long afternoons or a well-earned post-adventure pint.”

Brew York’s Signature range (Image: Pic supplied)

The inspiration for Hop Cat was shaped last year when Brew York founders Wayne Smith and Lee Grabham travelled to the USA as part of the 2025 Yakima Hop Harvest Tour, coordinated by BarthHaas, a major supplier of hop-based products.

During the trip, they worked directly with growers in Yakima to personally select hop lots, ensuring only the highest-quality Citra hops made their way into this beer. That hands-on approach to sourcing, Brew York says is central to Hop Cat, bringing a direct connection from hop field to cask.

Hop Cat joins Brew York’s established Signature Cask range, sitting alongside long-standing favourites Tonkoko, Calmer Chameleon, and Maris the Otter. Together, Brew York says the range showcases the brewery’s s approach to cask beer.

Brew York describes it as “balancing modern flavour, quality ingredients, and carefully crafted recipes that appeal to both traditional cask drinkers and those looking for something a little more contemporary.”

Brew York says this is a beer “with claws (Image: Pic supplied)

Yousef Doubooni, Director of Sales & Marketing at Brew York, said: “Hop Cat represents exactly what we want from our Signature cask range — beers that feel familiar and approachable but still deliver plenty of character.

“Citra is a hop our drinkers know and love, and Hop Cat lets it shine beautifully on cask. It’s modern, balanced, and incredibly easy to enjoy — we’re really excited to see it pouring across our venues and beyond.”

Hop Cat will be available from all Brew York venues and all good pub retailers from Monday February 9th.