The Vaults, Knowle, 7/12/14

This pub was one of the biggest surprises that the Pandas have had in a while, and so it deserves it’s own blog entry.  While not looking much from the outside, with Sky Sports banners and lager logos, the Pandas weren’t expecting a lot when they entered The Vaults while in Knowle for a quick wander, but the sign proclaiming real ales available was enough to draw them in.  How humbled they were when they discovered a lovely little pub with rustic decor and CAMRA awards adorning the wall – what a discovery!  More ales were available than MJ could try unfortunately, having driven to Knowle, but he managed to enjoy the warm atmosphere while tasting a couple of halves (AR went straight for the warm Rekorderlig Premiun Winter Cider which she said was just liked alcoholic stewed apple).  Being the festive season, both halves MJ tried were Christmas specials – Snow Storm by Naylor’s Brewery, a bitter sweet ale with fresh flavour and citrusy hops, followed by Hop Back‘s Elf & Hoppiness, a dry and fruity ale with a hint of winter spice.  Both ales were well looked after and the barman was not only friendly but knowledgeable about the beers he was serving, which along with the atmosphere and decor has led MJ to look for a bus that will get him to this pub for a proper session sometime…