Northern Monk: beer from the north of England with soul, hops, and plenty of creativity
It all started in 2013, when Russ Bisset, a graphic designer with an restless spirit, received an unexpected boost: 5,000 pounds from his grandmother after she sold her house. Shortly after, he met Brian Dickson, a master brewer with a refined sensitivity for hops, and together they decided to set up their own brewery. That was the birth of Northern Monk, with the purpose of creating some of the best beers in the world. And they are certainly achieving it.
In this Beer Republic post, we want to help you find your way around their selection. Whether you are looking for a powerful IPA, something more drinkable, or a rarity to surprise someone, we are here to guide you so you know where to start or which one to choose according to your tastes.
Before you begin: core range, special range, and Patrons Project
Northern Monk's beers are generally divided into three lines. The core range includes their most consistent references, ideal for beginners or for repeats without any surprises: easy to drink, with their own character, and available all year round. Then there are the special beers: one-off editions where Northern Monk unleashes its more creative side.
Finally, there is the Patrons Project, an initiative that connects artists, athletes, and creators with the brewing team. Each project leads to a limited series of seven beers that share a common creative vision, with special labels and unique collaborations.
Northern Monk core range
Among the core range beers you will find fresh IPAs, smooth stouts, and low-alcohol options with plenty of personality. Below, we break down the peculiarities of each one in a simple way so you can discover which one you fancy at any given moment.
Faith: juicy haze with a smooth soul
Faith is part of Northern Monk's core range and is a modern 5% ABV Hazy Pale Ale. Hazy, creamy, and full of tropical aromas, it offers mango, peach, and citrus in a silky texture that invites you to sip slowly.
If you are just starting out with craft beers or want something flavorful but straightforward, this is ideal. Hops like Citra, Mosaic, and El Dorado provide just the right amount of character without being overwhelming. Perfect for pairing with Asian food or an afternoon on a terrace with friends.
Eternal: lightness with attitude
Also within the core range, Eternal is a 4.1% ABV Session IPA that proves light doesn't have to be boring. Citrus aromas, a dry body, and a clean bitterness combine to create a fresh, long-drinking beer.
Ideal for those looking for an aromatic beer with a moderate alcohol content. It uses Citra and Centennial, which contribute grapefruit and lemon notes without excess. Its freshness makes it ideal for pairing with fresh dishes like salads, ceviches, or fish tacos at lunchtime.
Holy Faith: the alcohol-free version with soul
Holy Faith is the alcohol-free version of their famous Faith, but don't think it falls short. This Hazy Pale Ale (0.5% ABV) retains all the fruity and silky character thanks to hops like Citra, El Dorado, and Simcoe. It is a refreshing beer with a body that is surprising for its category and a clean finish that makes you come back for the next sip.
It is part of Northern Monk's core range and is perfect for any time of the day: after a workout, during the week, or simply when you fancy flavor without the consequences. An alcohol-free beer that wins over even those who don't usually look for them.
Northern Star: smooth and tasty darkness
Northern Star is a modern and accessible Porter, ideal if you are craving notes of coffee, cocoa, and a hint of caramel without being excessive. With 5.2% ABV and a medium body, this black beer is easy to drink and leaves a warm, rounded feeling in the mouth.
It belongs to the core range and is an example of how Northern Monk treats classic styles with care and balance. It is perfect for pairing with desserts, on cool afternoons, or simply when you are looking for a beer different from the hoppy ones.
Heathen: the IPA that has it all
With 7.2% ABV, Heathen turns up the volume while remaining balanced. This Hazy IPA, also from the core range, stands out for its creamy body and a feast of tropical fruit on the nose: pineapple, mango, and a welcome touch of citrus.
If you have already tried an IPA and want something more robust, Heathen is the natural next step. Its combination of Citra and Mosaic is pure juice with attitude. Pair it with burgers, spiced food, or a good pizza with extra cheese.
Northern Monk special range
This includes double IPAs, sours, imperial stouts, or collaborations with other breweries. They usually have more body, more intensity, and a more experimental approach, but are always accessible. Which one suits you best?
Heathen Heartbreak: the IPA that won't break hearts (but will make you fall in love)
Heathen Heartbreak is a Red IPA with character. It combines a malty, toasted base with the aromatic strength of hops, offering a profile where fruitiness and caramelization go hand in hand. It has 7.2% ABV and a reddish color that catches the eye.
It is part of the special range and is ideal if you are looking to step away from more traditional IPAs. It goes great with roasted meats, burgers, or aged cheeses, but also stands on its own as a beer for leisurely enjoyment.
Transient: a DDH IPA with a traveler's spirit
Transient is a 6% ABV Double Dry Hopped IPA that represents Northern Monk's nomadic essence. Hazy, juicy, with aromas of tropical fruits and citrus, it is one of those IPAs you fall in love with from the first sip.
It is part of the special range and is ideal for those who have already tried several IPAs and are looking for something more intense without going to the extreme. Its smooth and balanced finish makes it a great companion for spicy dishes, tacos, or curries.
Faith in Futures Lucy: an IPA with a purpose
Faith in Futures Lucy is a Hazy IPA (6.5% ABV) with notes of mango, mandarin, and orange, smooth on the palate and very easy to drink. Sensorially, it is a citrus and tropical explosion, with very low bitterness and a fruity finish.
Besides being delicious, it is a beer with a cause: it is part of the Faith in Futures project, with which Northern Monk supports social and artistic initiatives. Drinking well and doing good are not mutually exclusive, and this reference proves it with style.
Faith in Futures Smug: the DDH IPA that makes a difference
Smug is a DDH IPA that stands out for its powerful aromatic profile, juicy texture, and that balance that avoids excess. It hovers around 6% ABV and is brewed with a selection of hops that provide ripe fruits, resin, and a citrus background.
This special charity edition also belongs to the Faith in Futures initiative. Beyond its flavor, its design and background make it a complete experience: to discover, reflect, and share.
Stacks Pancake: pure breakfast in a can
Stacks Pancake is a Pancake Stout that pays homage to the most indulgent breakfast: pancakes with whipped cream, banana, and chocolate syrup. With 6% ABV and a dense body, it is a sweet, spiced, and creamy beer that is enjoyed like a liquid dessert.
This special edition is one to remember. Ideal as a nightly treat, it goes wonderfully with brownies, vanilla ice cream, or simply by itself while watching your favorite show. It's not for every day, but for those special days.
Northern Monk Patrons Project beers
These are ephemeral editions, beers designed as complete experiences that combine art, flavor, and storytelling. If you see a Patrons Project beer on the website, don't think too long: when they're gone, they're gone.
Billelis 42.05 Golden Axis: liquid art with New Zealand hops
Golden Axis is a Hazy IPA (7% ABV) that is part of the Patrons Project in collaboration with artist Billelis. It is brewed with New Zealand hops like Waimea, Wai-iti, The Bruce, and Luminosa, which gives it an exotic profile: mango, grapefruit, lime, and a very particular herbal touch.
Besides its flavor, the can is a piece of art in its own right. Northern Monk unites visual and brewing creativity in this special edition that invites you to look, taste, and collect. Ideal for those looking for something beyond the typical IPA.
Which is the best Northern Monk beer for you
That depends on what you are looking for. A light and accessible beer? Eternal or Holy Faith are safe bets. Do you like it hazy and juicy? Faith or Heathen never fail. Want to explore unique flavors? The special edition or Patrons Project beers are waiting for you.
Whatever your style, at Beer Republic you will find a Northern Monk beer for you. And if you don't know where to start, write to us: we'll help you :)