Whitbread has just celebrated its 275th anniversary with a limited-edition coffee infused beer; 1742. Made with Costa’s famous Mocha Italia beans, just 5,000 bottles of the craft brew will be available exclusively at selected Premier Inns across the UK for the next month.
Combining its coffee roasting expertise with its rich brewing heritage, 1742 will be Whitbread’s first beer since it turned off the taps in 2000. Partnering with Black Sheep Brewery, Whitbread has created a smooth and creamy coffee stout using WGV, one of Whitbread’s original hops. Championing the latest trend for coffee-infused beer, 1742 appeals to craft beer and coffee enthusiasts alike with its combination of roasted malt flavours and the intense character of Costa's Mocha Italia coffee, which has slightly sweet caramel notes.
Marking the year Whitbread was born, 1742 is a beer that tells a story, from Samuel Whitbread’s humble beginings as a brewer in London, to becoming the third oldest company in the FTSE 100. Built on a history of innovation, Whitbread was the first brand to pair beer with food, and use celebrities in its advertising campaigns. Foreseeing the emerging trend for coffee, Whitbread bought Costa Coffee in 1995 and has grown it to be the UK’s number one coffee shop brand.
Alison Brittain, Whitbread Chief Executive commented, ”275 years is a huge milestone for Whitbread, it’s an occasion to celebrate our heritage, history of innovation and most importantly, the people - our 50,000 employees - who make it what it is today. As a company that has evolved with consumer tastes and trends, 1742 seemed the perfect way to both tell our story and celebrate.”
Gennaro Pelliccia, Costa’s Master of Coffee commented, “What better way to celebrate Whitbread’s rich history of innovation, than by combining our past brewing expertise with the nation’s favourite Costa Coffee Mocha Italia blend? 1742 celebrates the current growth and trend of coffee and craft beer – offering a smooth and creamy coffee flavoured beer with a touch caramel. It’s a truly unique drink that I’m excited for customers to try. Cheers to Whitbread!”
