Nestled in the heart of Suffolk, Mauldons Brewery stands as a testament to the rich brewing heritage of England. With a history that stretches back to the 18th century, Mauldons has had a fascinating journey. Here we highlight our significant milestones, traditional brewing methods, and the passionate individuals who have contributed to its enduring legacy.
The Early Years: A Humble Beginning
Mauldons Brewery traces its origins to 1795, when it was first established in Sudbury, Suffolk. The founder, Anna Maria Mauldon, was a visionary who recognised the potential of brewing quality ales using the finest local ingredients. In an era when beer was a staple of daily life, the brewery quickly gained a reputation for its consistent quality and distinctive flavours.
Surviving Challenges: The 20th Century
The 20th century brought a series of challenges for Mauldons Brewery. The First World War posed significant difficulties as resources were scarce and the demand for beer fluctuated. Despite these challenges, Mauldons persevered by adapting its production processes and focusing on community support. The brewery became a cornerstone of local life, providing a sense of normalcy and comfort during turbulent times.
The post-war era saw the rise of mass-produced beers, which threatened the existence of smaller, traditional breweries like Mauldons.
The Revival: Late 20th Century to Present
The late 20th century marked a significant turning point for Mauldons Brewery. In 1981, Peter Mauldon, a distant relative of Anna Maria decided to re-establish the family business and start a brewery in Sudbury once again.
Peter had been too young to be involved in the original family business and had previously pursued a career with Watneys Brewery where he progressed to Head Brewer.
In 1982 premises on the Chilton Industrial Estate were acquired, the brewery was constructed and on the December of that year the first barrels of beer were being brewed again in Sudbury by a Mauldon. Our Head Brewer Steve Birch joined in 1980.
Notable additions included the award-winning Black Adder, a rich and robust porter that quickly became a flagship product. The brewery also began participating in local and national beer festivals, earning accolades and increasing its visibility within the craft beer community.
In 2000, Steve and Alison Sims purchased the Sudbury based brewery. The brewery was well established, and using only traditional methods and quality materials, supplied a range of premium real ales throughout the country. The brewery continued to experiment with innovative techniques and recipes.
In September 2019 Charlie Buckle, who lives on his family farm just 10 miles from Sudbury, purchased the brewery. With their passion for beer and particularly Mauldons beer, it was the perfect way to continue the business as it always has been, in the hands of a family who care.
The People Behind the Beer
One of the key factors behind Mauldons Brewery's enduring success is the dedication and passion of its team. Over the years, the brewery has been home to a talented team, each bringing their unique expertise and creativity to the table. At the heart of this team is Head Brewer, Steve, whose meticulous attention to detail ensures that every batch of beer meets the highest standards of quality.
His deep knowledge of brewing techniques, combined with a relentless pursuit of excellence, has played a pivotal role in shaping the brewery's reputation. Under his guidance, Mauldons has continued to innovate while staying true to its traditional roots. His philosophy is simple: “Brew beer that we are proud to drink and share with others.”
Steve points out that beer drinkers are like ‘train spotters’ as they can always ‘spot’ a beer they have not tried before. This is the thinking behind guest beers, seasonal beers as well as hosting a beer festival.“Nobody does beer like the our country” says Steve. If you know a little of your beer history, you may be aware that there is evidence of brewing at the time Julius Caesar’s invasion of Britain, and some may say that it was in evidence even earlier than this. In essence, there is a long tradition of brewing beer in Britain and by default, a great deal of expertise.
Traditional Brewing Techniques
Mauldons Brewery’s commitment to traditional brewing techniques is a cornerstone of its identity. Despite advancements in technology, the brewery has remained faithful to the methods that have defined its beers for over two centuries. This dedication to tradition is evident in every aspect of the brewing process, from ingredient selection to fermentation and aging.
Ingredient Selection
At Mauldons, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. The brewery sources the finest malts, hops, and yeast strains, many of which are locally grown. This not only supports local agriculture but also ensures the freshest ingredients are used in the brewing process.
Brewing Process
The brewing process at Mauldons begins with mashing, where the malted barley is mixed with hot water to extract fermentable sugars. This mash is then transferred to a lauter tun, where the liquid wort is separated from the grain husks. The wort is then boiled, and hops are added to impart bitterness, flavor, and aroma.
Community Engagement and Sustainability
Mauldons Brewery’s connection to the local community has always been a defining feature of its identity. The brewery actively participates in community events and supports local charities, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Sudbury life. The Brewery Tap, Mauldons' on-site pub, serves as a hub for social gatherings, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy the brewery’s creations.
In recent years, Mauldons has also made significant strides in sustainability. The brewery has implemented energy-efficient practices, such as recycling spent grain for animal feed and investing in renewable energy sources. These initiatives not only reduce the brewery’s environmental footprint but also align with the growing consumer demand for sustainable products.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mauldons Brewery
As Mauldons Brewery looks to the future, it remains committed to its founding principles of quality, tradition, and community. The brewery plans to continue expanding its range of beers, exploring new styles and flavours while staying true to its heritage. Upcoming projects include the development of a series of limited-edition brews, celebrating seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques.
Mauldons considers its Barley to Bottle ethos key to its vision and growth. In 2024, Mauldons have seen a 16% growth in their trade customer base, and whilst the business has undergone serious expansion in the last six months, it has never lost sight of its sustainable approach.
Mauldons also aims to enhance its online presence, making it easier for customers to purchase their favourite beers directly from the brewery’s website. This includes expanding the brewery’s distribution network, ensuring that Mauldons beers are available to a wider audience both locally and nationally.
The brewery's commitment to hosting special events at the Brewery Tap is also set to continue. These events, ranging from beer tastings to live music nights, provide a platform for Mauldons to engage with its community and showcase its latest creations. By fostering a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, Mauldons Brewery aims to remain a beloved institution in Suffolk for generations to come.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in 1795 to its current status as a respected name in the craft beer industry, Mauldons has remained true to its roots while embracing the opportunities of the modern era. As the brewery continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to brewing exceptional beers that reflect the rich heritage and vibrant community of Suffolk.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to Mauldons, join us on our journey…