Tonight we went along to the launch of Hot Rum Cow magazine’s Rye IPA beer at Jeremiah’s Taproom.

Formerly the Elm Row Bar, Jeremiah’s Taproom opened last summer and despite it being a 10 minute walk from our flat this was actually the first time we had visited. A central horseshoe bar is home to a multitude of craft beer taps with a mixture of regulars and guest beers from cask and keg, as well as a range of bottles.

Considerable thought has gone into the interior design, with a particular emphasis on the lighting. Rather than going for the same light fittings throughout each one seems to be different, with “birdcage” lampshades, cut glass bulbs, industrial wall lights and large filament bulbs on show.

But back to our reason for being here, the launch of Hot Rum Cow‘s Rye IPA. Upon entering the pub we were handed beer tokens – what an unexpected treat! – and made our way to the bar to exchange them for two bottles of Rye IPA.

A collaboration with Stewart Brewing, made in their Craft Beer Kitchen, it was billed as “spiced, citrous, idiosyncratic” and certainly delivered on its promise. Deep orange in colour, it’s quite hoppy and citrous with a background sweetness.

Hot Rum Cow is a magazine for the discerning drinker, published in Edinburgh since 2012, and we were handed complimentary copies of Issue 5 as we stood sampling their new wares.

The bar was busy with people doing likewise and the atmosphere was great, a constant hubbub with a fantastic soundtrack provided by The Gorms.

After a couple more drinks we made our way to the door – it was a school night after all – past the stained glass windows and a “deer’s head” on the wall.

Thanks must go to Hot Rum Cow, Stewart Brewing and Jeremiah’s Taproom for a great night. We’ll undoubtedly be back.