The Kernel Brewery – Bermondsey, London

The Kernel is one of the most influential breweries in the UK craft beer movement, known for precise pale ales, hop-driven IPAs and historic porter recipes brewed in small batches on London’s Bermondsey Beer Mile.

Foeder: Citra Sabro – The Kernel Brewery

Oak-Fermented. Bright. Complex.

Beer Overview

Foeder: Citra Sabro from The Kernel Brewery is a mixed fermentation pale ale inspired by Belgian brewing traditions and matured in oak foeders. Fermented with a blend of Belgian Pale Ale yeast, Saison yeast and The Kernel’s house mixed culture, the beer develops a layered fermentation profile combining spice, fruit and gentle acidity.

The addition of Citra and Sabro hops brings a bright, modern hop character that complements the expressive yeast. Citrus zest, subtle tropical notes and earthy complexity sit alongside the beer’s dry, refreshing structure. Oak fermentation adds depth and texture, creating a beer that is both vibrant and refined.

Flavour Profile

Taste: Lemon zest, soft tropical fruit and light citrus bitterness with subtle herbal and earthy notes.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium-bodied with lively carbonation and gentle acidity.
Finish: Dry, refreshing and lightly tart with delicate oak structure.

Aroma

Bright citrus, floral notes and light tropical fruit combine with saison spice and subtle earthy complexity from the mixed fermentation.

Brewing Process & Uniqueness

The Kernel’s Foeder Beer programme explores mixed fermentation brewing inspired by Belgian pale ales and farmhouse styles. This beer is fermented with a combination of Belgian Pale Ale yeast, Saison yeast and the brewery’s house mixed culture, creating a layered fermentation character that evolves over time.

Fermentation takes place in a large oak foeder, where the beer gains subtle structure and complexity from the wood. The hop combination of Citra and Sabro introduces bright lemon-rind bitterness alongside earthy, hay-like depth, balancing the fruity and peppery yeast profile.

The result is a dry, elegant mixed fermentation beer where oak, hops and yeast work together to create a nuanced and refreshing pale ale.

Serving & Food Pairing

Serve at: 6–8°C in a tulip or saison glass.

Perfect with:

• Roast chicken or pork

• Soft cheeses such as goat’s cheese

• Seafood dishes

• Charcuterie boards

• Fresh salads with vinaigrette

The Kernel Brewery is one of the most influential breweries in the UK craft beer movement. Founded in 2009 by Evin O’Riordain in Bermondsey, London, the brewery quickly established itself as a pioneer of modern British craft brewing through its focus on quality, balance and traditional brewing techniques.

Inspired by classic European and American brewing traditions, The Kernel became known for producing precise, flavour-driven beers that highlight both high-quality ingredients and careful brewing processes. Their hop-forward pale ales and IPAs helped redefine the style in the UK, often showcasing single hop varieties or carefully selected hop combinations to explore the unique character of each hop.

Alongside their celebrated pale ales, The Kernel has earned widespread recognition for its London-style porters and stouts, which pay homage to the capital’s historic brewing heritage. These darker beers combine rich roasted malt character with exceptional balance and drinkability, earning them a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts.

The brewery operates from its home in Bermondsey, part of London’s famous Bermondsey Beer Mile, where it played a central role in shaping the area into one of the UK’s most important craft beer destinations.

Known for its distinctive minimalist labels and no-nonsense approach to brewing, The Kernel remains committed to producing small-batch beers that prioritise clarity of flavour, precision and quality above all else. Today, it continues to stand as one of the UK’s most respected independent breweries.

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Product is 1 x can/bottle, unless otherwise stated and not multiple. Image is purely for visual representation, actual product may differ. Glassware shown is not included.