Ancient Ales

We like to say that 'every beer has a story,' and some of our beers have quite a history too!

Since 1999, Dogfish Head has worked closely with molecular archeologist Dr.
Patrick McGovern, one of the world¹s leading experts in ancient beverages.
Together, we bring ancient brewing history back to life. The first beer we created together is our Midas Touch. This recipe is based on molecular evidence found in a Turkish tomb believed to have belonged to King Midas. The beer is brewed with honey, white Muscat grapes, and saffron.

The second beer to come about from this partnership is our Chateau Jiahu. Jiahu¹s ingredient list was unearthed from a 9000 year old tomb in China. The Jiahu discovery represents the oldest known fermented beverage evidence in the history of civilization! That means that drinks made from fermented grain (beer) have a longer history than beverages made from fermented grapes (wine). Chateau Jiahu is made with hawthorn fruit, sake rice, barley, and honey.

Theobroma represents Dogfish Head¹s third collaboration with Dr. McGovern.
This unfiltered, 9% a.b.v. beer is brewed with honey, ancho chilies, ground annatto seeds, cocoa nibs, and cocoa powder from the acclaimed artisanal Askinosie Chocolate company in Missouri.

In addition to the three beers we've worked with Dr. McGovern on, we've brewed a number of other ancient-based beers here at Dogfish: an Ethopian-styled T'ej, our Sah'tea, and a few more here and there!

All these beers are truly liquid time capsules. They transport the modern beer connoisseur back to a time when our ancestor-brewers were unencumbered by laws and style guidelines. The artistry, creativity and diversity of these beers were as colorful and contrasting as the varied cultures in which they were brewed. Enjoy a beer, and a piece of history!