Elephant Rock celebratory IPA from Northern Irish brewer

Craft brewer Lacada, based in Northern Ireland, has launched a new India Pale Ale that celebrates World Elephant Day later this month.

The brewery, which is based at Portrush in county, has developed a portfolio of core brews and seasonal specials, also marks Elephant Rock, a striking landmark on the Antrim coastline, near Dunluce Castle, a ruined medieval castle

The latest bottle-conditioned IPA from Lacada, a community co-operative brewery, is launched ahead of World Elephant Day on 12 August, dedicated to the preservation and protection of the world's endangered elephants.

Lacada's chair Heather Quiery, commenting on the new Elephant Rock beer, says: "For this 5.7% IPA, our team of brewers used a grain bill comprising 20 percent malted oats.

"This gives the beer a super smooth, rounded and full mouthfeel. With the malts adding a caramel backbone, we then have the Amarillo, Mosaic and Citra hops combining to deliver a delightful mix of mandarin, passion fruit, pineapple and just a touch of gingery spiciness at the end."

The new IPA is available in 500ml bottles at around £3.25. The brewery is also planning to make it available in kegs.

Development of the new IPA was led by Lacada's head brewer Laurie Davies, one of Northern Ireland's most experienced craft brewers with experience in the industry stretching back 30 years.

Lacada was registered in May 2014. The name Lacada is derived from Liach Fada which means 'the longstone' and refers to a low, mean, rocky outcrop about 300 yards east of the world famous Giant's Causeway, the only UNESCO World Heritage site.

In addition to a number of 'specials', the brewery has successful core range of beers and stout including its Stranded Bunny Porter (4.5%ABV), named after a colony of rabbits on a remote island off the coast of county Antrim, which has won a UK Great Taste Award.

The other beers are Giant's Organ IPA (4.5%ABV), named after a Giant's Causeway feature, and Sorley Boy's Stash Golden Ale (4.5ABV), which is named after a local chieftain.