[Handpump at Eldon Arms, Reading] I grew up in Wadworth’s catchment area, and my local pubs were often Waddy’s tied houses - which was unfortunate as I really didn’t like their beers at the time. I’ve generally avoided their beers ever since. However, I’d recently had a bit of a Waddy’s epiphany, having thoroughly enjoyed a pint of 6X. So I thought I’d give one of their other beers a chance, and as I had to drive later on I chose the low-ABV Henry’s IPA. Now, this remains my brother’s favourite beer to this day, but I remembered it as being one of the worst of the Waddy’s stable - it would need an even bigger epiphany than 6X had. Despite coming in a traditional dimpled tankard, it was immediately apparent from the aroma that no epiphany would be forthcoming - there was a faint smell of sulphur and wet leaves, indicating the sort of bitter that I dislike. The aroma continued into the taste, despite the very weak and watery mouthfeel; a faint sulphur on the foretaste, some biscuit in the middle, and then something botanical afterwards. For some reason I was left feeling like I’d drunk liquid plantfeed (eg Baby Bio) even though I wouldn’t know what that tastes like. I’m trying to think of a beer to compare this to - possibly a watered-down Wells Bombadier? Overall it was much worse than I remembered, and one of the nastier bitters I’ve tried. However, bear in mind that it’s my brother’s favourite - so maybe this is one of those love it or hate it beers?

Cask, Clifton, Bristol. IPA ? I don’t think so. Dull as dishwater, couldn’t finish this. Flat, insipid, bland, need I go on?

Cask-conditioned at the Penny Farthing, Bristol. Amber with a decent off-white head. Slight hoppy aroma. Flavour was very thin - some soggy malt followed by the sour, acidic aftertaste that is typically Wadsworth.