Spitfire Amber Ale takes flight with a fresh new look

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame has revealed a fresh new look for its flagship Spitfire Amber Ale.

Named after the legendary Supermarine Spitfire, the Kentish ale (4.2% ABV) was first brewed in 1990 to commemorate the Battle of Britain which was fought in the skies above Kent 50 years earlier. 

It now features a striking new design inspired by the wartime aircraft that gave the beer its name. A bespoke hand-drawn Spitfire logo evokes the vapour trails of the iconic plane, paired with a reimagined Shepherd Neame monogram inspired by its heritage as Britain’s oldest brewer.

The refreshed look introduces gold detailing to the classic red, white and blue colour palette, highlighting Spitfire’s Royal Warrant from His Majesty King Charles III, which was first granted in 2014 in his former role as the Prince of Wales. 

Brewed using 100% Kentish hops, the finest malts and water drawn from a well deep beneath Shepherd Neame’s Faversham brewery, the award-winning beer has held Protected Geographical Indication Status (PGI) as a Kentish Ale since 2007 – the same protected status as Champagne. 

Developed in partnership with global creative agency Thirst, the redesign brings Spitfire Amber Ale in line with Spitfire Lager, which debuted its new branding last year. The award-winning Spitfire collection also includes Spitfire Golden Ale.

Matt Burns, Executive Creative Director at Thirst, said: “Spitfire is a British original, and working with Britain's oldest brewer is a privilege we don’t take lightly. Together we’ve dialled up Spitfire's modern edge, creating a clear and cohesive design language that sharpens the story across the portfolio, while staying true to the beer’s Kentish roots.”

Shepherd Neame’s Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We continue to invest in refreshing and expanding our award-winning collection of beers, and are proud to unveil this bold new look for our flagship Spitfire Amber Ale.

“It offers a confident, contemporary edge while celebrating everything that makes the beer special — its Kentish roots, British spirit, and quality craftsmanship. We hope that this redesign will reinvigorate the brand, and ensure Spitfire remains a flagship part of our portfolio for years to come.”