Expert's verdict... 8/10 ?The heritage of Zhujiang is strong as it is one of three national beer brands in China. The packaging is bright and should achieve good shelf standout. While it has the story of the brand on the back label, the text is too small. The 5.3% abv beer is understated and has a pale straw appearance with subtle hops and the faintest touch of acidity on the finish. The growth in world beers means Zhujiang stands a good chance in the UK, helped by the Olympics in Beijing this year. Henry Moran, trading manager, spirits, MBL. Consumer's verdict... 7/10 ?I liked the packaging as it looks authentic. However, under closer inspection it doesn't exude quality and because there are all sorts of lagers that have shiny gold labels I don't think it would stand out that much. It tasted very much like a normal European strong lager and was quite sweet and hoppy. I was hoping it may be a bit more exotic, so that was slightly disappointing. I would buy the lager again though and I think it will have a lot of appeal for people who like to travel and try something different. Phil Brown, civil servant, Somerset A year down the line... Jacobsen Company: Carlsberg Launch Price: £3.29 to £3.49 Today's price: £3.29 to £3.49 Carlsberg launched its Jacobsen range in the UK with two beers in October 2006. Both variants have been available in the Danish brewer's domestic market since 2005, where they have already been successful, according to the company. The strategy for the range in 2008 will be to continue to promote the beers as a good match for food, said Carlsberg. The company will continue to push sales of Jacobsen through on and off-trade retailers.

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