Venom and Virtue: Badger’s bold new Nettle Ale is here

After years of whispers, wishful thinking, and many a request, we’re excited to launch a fresh new take on our famous Nettle Ale. Venom and Virtue is Badger’s brand-new limited-edition nettle ale, brewed for summer sipping.

Herbal, zingy, and just a little bit wild, our latest Badger seasonal beer is light in body, pale in colour, and surprisingly refreshing. Here’s everything you need to know about this curious and crowd-pleasing favourite.

What is nettle beer?

Nettle beer (or nettle ale) is considered a traditional British style of beer. While historic versions often resembled a soft drink or tonic, today’s nettle beers are brewed like a pale ale, combining the herbal kick of nettles with hops and malt for a more modern, drinkable finish.

What does nettle beer taste like?

In a word: fresh. In Venom and Virtue, the nettles bring a light grassy flavour and gentle herbal tingle, perfectly balanced by subtle malt and a crisp, zesty finish. It’s herbal but not overpowering, refreshing without being too bitter, and ideal for warm-weather drinking.

How strong is nettle beer?

Nettle beer typically sits on the lighter end of the alcohol spectrum, making it a great choice for session drinking and those seeking a refreshing pint. Venom and Virtue Nettle Ale is brewed to 4.2% ABV, offering a pale straw colour, a fresh, zesty aroma, and a smooth, easy-drinking body. Whether you’re after a low to mid-strength craft beer or curious about the traditional nettle brewing style, this ale delivers a satisfying balance of flavour with an approachable alcohol content at 4.2% ABV.

Is nettle beer alcoholic?

Yes. Venom and Virtue is a fully brewed pale ale, not a soft drink or cordial. It’s a proper pint brewed with hops, malt, yeast, and of course… nettles.

Is nettle ale good for summer?

Absolutely. In fact, that’s why we launched it now! Venom and Virtue is a seasonal beer brewed specifically for long days, garden gatherings, and laid-back evenings. It’s light, dry, and incredibly refreshing, making it a welcome change from heavier beers and ideal for anyone looking to try something a little different this summer.

Having said that, it’s a great choice for year-round enjoyment due to it’s light nature.

Where can I buy Badger’s nettle ale?

Up until now, Venom and Virtue has been exclusively available as our summer cask seasonal ale at Hall and Woodhouse managed houses, but we’re happy to share that it’s now available in bottles… while stock lasts! You can grab a case of bottles or mix and match as part of our build your own bundle deal, directly from our website.

Grab Venom and Virtue Nettle Ale now!

A beer that’s light, zingy, and a little out of the ordinary? That’s the magic of Venom and Virtue. It’s a modern take on a traditional favourite, a nettle beer for today’s drinker, brewed right here in Dorset.

Please Drink Responsibly