News & Events

Vikingr

10 Mar 2026

NEXT GENERATION OF BEERS AND BREWERS!

A New Generation at The Orkney Brewery: Arran Sinclair Brews His First Beer, Vikingr Vienna

Orkney, Scotland — The Orkney Brewery proudly announces the release of Vikingr Vienna, the first beer brewed by Arran Sinclair, marking an exciting new chapter for the family-run brewery owned and operated by his parents, Norman and Christine Sinclair. The launch represents both a continuation of best practice and the arrival of a new generation of brewing talent.

A true family affair, Arran’s debut brew reflects years of dedication to the craft. After completing four years at the internationally renowned Centre for Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Arran recently added a postgraduate qualification in Marketing from the University of Edinburgh — combining technical expertise with a strong understanding of brand development and the modern beer market.

Determined to make his mark, Arran set out to create something distinctly different from anything previously produced at The Orkney Brewery. His ambition and persistence paid off, as he pursued a bold new direction with unwavering conviction.

“I wanted to create a beer that honoured our heritage while exploring new territory,” said Arran Sinclair. “Something unique to me, but still rooted in the character and quality people expect from the brewery.”

Working alongside his brother Alistair, Arran also developed the brand name Vikingr — the Old Norse word for “Viking” — a fitting tribute to Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and adventurous spirit. Arran then worked alongside Andrew Fulton the brewery’s long standing Head Brewery and also a former graduate at Heriot Watt to brew the beer. Vikingr will be a series of beers, this being the first of our world styles showcased by Arran.

Vikingr Vienna is a Vienna Ale, brewed using Vienna malt to deliver distinctive biscuit-like malt character, balanced by bright lemony and herbal notes from carefully selected European hop varieties: Perle, Saaz, Aurora and Styrian Wolf.

Tasting Notes
Vikingr Vienna pours as a pale auburn beer with enticing aromas of lemon and biscuit. The mouthfeel is rich and rounded, combining sweet malt and caramel flavours with vibrant lemon and gentle spice from the hops. The finish is smooth and bittersweet, revealing lingering notes of lemongrass and mango.

Norman and Christine Sinclair welcomed the milestone as a proud moment for the brewery. “Seeing Arran brew his first beer here is incredibly special,” they said. “The Orkney Brewery has always been about family, passion, and craftsmanship — and Vikingr carries all of that forward.”

The release of Vikingr Vienna celebrates both heritage and innovation, showcasing how established and new thinking, can come together, to shape the future of Scottish brewing.

Availability
Vikingr Vienna will be available from The Orkney Brewery and selected outlets in the On Trade from March, in cask.

Media Enquiries:
Norman Sinclair 
Managing Director 
The Orkney Brewery
01667-404555
norman@orkneybrewery.co.uk
www.orkneybrewery.co.uk.