The Muntons Hand Crafted Oaked Ale Kit is part of Muntons’ premium Hand Crafted series, designed for brewers who want something more refined and expressive than a standard beer kit. This series is all about depth, balance, and traditional character, using higher-quality ingredients and more thoughtfully designed recipes to produce beers with real presence and maturity.

What makes this kit truly distinctive is the inclusion of oak, which adds a subtle layer of complexity that you simply don’t get in most extract kits. Rather than overpowering the beer, the oak contributes gentle vanilla notes, soft tannins, and a rounded structure that complements the malt backbone beautifully. The result is a smooth, well-balanced ale with a slightly elevated mouthfeel and a finish that feels polished and complete.

In the glass, this oaked ale pours a rich amber to light copper colour with good clarity and a persistent head. Flavour-wise, expect a solid malt foundation with notes of biscuit, light caramel, and toast, supported by mild hop bitterness. The oak character weaves through the beer quietly, adding depth rather than dominance, making this an excellent option for drinkers who enjoy traditional English-style ales or beers with a subtle barrel-inspired influence.

Compared to regular Muntons kits, the Hand Crafted range uses more malt, better balance, and more interesting flavour components. These kits are designed to stand on their own without needing extra fermentables, giving you a more complete beer straight out of the box. They’re ideal for brewers who want a step up in quality without moving into full all-grain brewing.

To brew this kit at home, you’ll just need standard brewing equipment such as a fermenter, airlock, sanitizer, bottles, caps, and a capper. The yeast is included, and you’ll only need priming sugar at bottling time to carbonate the finished beer. Allowing a little extra conditioning time after bottling really pays off with this style, as the oak and malt flavours continue to integrate and soften.

This is a beer that suits relaxed evenings, shared meals, or moments when you want something a little more thoughtful in the glass. If you’re looking for a classic ale with added elegance and character, the Muntons Hand Crafted Oaked Ale Kit is a rewarding choice.