Greene King (above) has unveiled its Fresh Cask Releases calendar for 2026.
Continuing its commitment to championing cask beer, Greene King’s line-up introduces new brews alongside increased choice in pump clip designs, giving pubs greater flexibility to create exciting seasonal cask offerings.
Demonstrating the impact of this approach, Greene King’s festive favourite Rocking Rudolph, the number one Christmas cask beer, delivered a strong performance during its recent run surpassing 2024 sales.
The uplift was driven in part by the introduction of a new pump clip. The success also highlights the important role that visual appeal can play in supporting growth within the cask category.
The brewer also saw wider success with its specials calendar selling more than two million pints of seasonal cask beer in 2025 and demonstrating there is demand for fresh releases.
The 2026 Fresh Cask Releases calendar will feature 12 limited‑edition beers, each timed to complement key moments throughout the year. Continuing on from the 2025 programme, Fireside, the 4.5 per cent ruby winter beer and Abbot Reserve, the 6.5 per cent premium ale, will be available across the early months of the year.
Making its annual return in February is the sport‑inspired Scrumdown. The 4.1 per cent golden ale pays homage to the upcoming rugby tournament. Scrumdown will be available until the end of April.
Greene King is also introducing an alternative pump clip design for Scrumdown. The Golden Dawn clip is ideal for venues without a sport offering, presenting a spring‑themed twist on the returning favourite.
Greene King head brewer Jack Palmer said: “Our 2026 Fresh Cask Releases calendar builds on the success of our portfolio last year, bringing back much‑loved favourites alongside a few exciting new brews and seasonal celebrations. By continuing to invest in seasonal quality cask and offering a rotating range, we’re helping our customers create fresh interest in cask beer throughout the year and deliver great experiences for drinkers.”
All seasonal cask beers will be available in firkins and pins (36‑pint units), providing pubs with greater flexibility and helping them manage throughput.
