Master of Wine and wine director of Hatch Mansfield The bottled real ale category is becoming a real minefield with a vast array of styles available. However the delicate taste of rye gives this latest offering from Batemans a point of difference that could give it a better chance than most. I think that die-hard real ale fans may prefer a heavier, hoppier, fully flavoured beer style which this certainly is not, but it is well balanced and not too gassy or alcoholic at 4.7% abv. I found it a most enjoyable drink when served cool, and I would certainly recommend it, although there is no doubt that it has plenty of competition. Rating out of 25 ­ 17 Gary McCall Managing director of Poulter Partners The transparent label and textured illustration style are distinctive, giving the impression the bottle has been printed. However this creativity has not been carried through on the execution. The etched style Combined Harvest illustration is too small and I am concerned that if the pack is not presented perfectly on shelf, the vertical branding will not be seen. This beer's point of difference would seem to be the number of cereals used in its production (hence its name). However this is conveyed only on the reverse label, and I was not seduced by the label's claim that the brewery is situated alongside a daisy filled paddock. Rating out of 25 ­ 14 Carol Du Cann Senior buyer (beers, wines and spirits) at Alldays The Combined Harvest part of the label looks too small and unbalanced compared with the Batemans part. Otherwise, it has classy presentation with excellent back label detail. The beer has a lovely nose and a good head. It manages to taste hoppy, without being too bitter. It is refreshing and light even with 4.7% abv. The different grains give it depth of flavour, too. A serious beer, but one with wide appeal. Given the right support by supplier and retailer, this beer should be a success. It has a point of difference, looks and tastes good, and is a real credit to the British brewing industry. Rating out of 25 ­ 19 Total score out of 100 ­ 69 {{DRINKS }}

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