Bishop Nick has been brewing in Braintree since the 1700s, passing through six generations of the same family, and they are firmly in the real ale tradition. Martyr 0.5 is their alcohol-free pale ale, and while the name and heritage might lead you to expect something old-fashioned, the hop character here points clearly at American varieties. The aroma is floral and lifted, with the hops giving something brighter than you typically get from British traditional varieties. The first sip lands a distinct spicy bitterness, which settles into a sweet malt backbone that gives the beer a rounded, full feel for its strength. It does not fade quickly — the flavour carries through to a crisp finish with a lingering hop note. Vegan and gluten-free, which is notable for a traditionally-minded brewery. At 0.5% ABV it qualifies as alcohol-free under UK law. Available in 500ml bottles direct from the Bishop Nick website and through specialist retailers. If you've found most AF pale ales too soft or too sweet, the spicy bitterness here offers something different.