Today is International Beer Day, and to celebrate, Virgin Voyages has announced plans for its own signature craft beer: an English Pale Ale with a hint of red that will be sold onboard the new adults-only cruise brand's first ship, the Scarlet Lady, and featured in the ship's onboard tap room, the Draught Haus. The cruise line is also calling on travelers to name the new beer; they can suggest their favorite names for the brew by commenting on their Instagram post @VirginVoyages featuring the can.
Over a year in the making and in partnership with Miami’s own Wynwood Brewing Company, the English Pale Ale (EPA) aims to connect American and English brewing traditions. Virgin said that the beer will be brewed using American malts and hops in Miami but using an English yeast in a bid to tie back to Virgin's British roots.
Virgin said that the beer will have a malty body like a traditional EPA, but slightly more bitter and hoppy, with hints of grapes and fruit on the nose with toffee and caramel in the background. The ale finishes with a little touch of roasted malt that gives to give it a signature red tint.
Draught Haus
Virgin also released new details on its onboard tap room, Draught Haus. Located on Deck 7, the casual meetup spot will serve beers from eight taps, as well as a range of bottled artisanal beers, shots, shot-cocktails and boilermakers. The adjacent Voyage Vinyl record shop and DJ booth will provide background music. The bar will also offer a growler service, allowing travelers to enjoy the beer in the ship's public spaces or in their cabin.
The Draught Haus has been designed in collaboration with Softroom. The space has an arc of illuminated dichroic glass fins and window seats that frame views of the sea. The space also has an eclectic mix of furniture, Virgin said, along with rustic detailing and a beer tap display set behind the bar.
The Scarlet Lady will set sail on its inaugural season from Miami to the Caribbean in 2020.
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