Today marks the 100th anniversary of the first time our iconic 6X was brewed on 5th December 1923. 

Did you know? 6X was originally 6% ABV and reduced to 4.3% due to rationing of raw ingredients during WWII. It later reduced to 4.1%. Coopers used to mark casks with a whitewashed X to denote the beer’s strength. As this beer’s ABV was originally 6%, Coopers would mark XXXXXX. Wadworth brewery’s Cooper, Reg Morris, shortened the six crosses to simply 6 followed by a single X and the name affectionately stuck after the barrels were stored behind the bar in full view.

Throughout the year leading up to its centennial celebration, Wadworth has been commemorating this brewing milestone. We’ve offered chances to win beer and merchandise by scanning QR codes on pump clips at our pubs. Additionally, monthly social media competitions have featured prizes like a shire horse experience day, a personalized sign crafted by our in-house sign writer Wayne, and a brewing experience alongside head brewer Andy to create our special edition 6% 6X.

This December, the special 6% 6X edition, replicating the original 1923 brew, is available in Wadworth managed and tenanted pubs across the South and West. This version revives the 6% ABV using Fuggles and Goldings hops, alongside Invert no.1 sugar. Invert no.1, a traditional sugar, was added to beers back then to extend brew length, avoiding higher taxes on malt at the time.

All pubs offering 6% 6X will also have a limited-edition gift box to raffle off today so one lucky winner in each pub will win the prize including a bottle of 6% 6X and a branded handled glass and bottle opener. Within each box there will be voucher, one of these is a Golden Ticket worth a year of beer to see the winner through 2024 with 366 cans of 6X (lucky winner, it’s a leap year next year!).

Raise a toast to 100 years of this classic amber ale with us. Cheers 6X!

Want to get your hands on some 6% 6X merch to celebrate this milestone in brewing history with us? SHOP NOW