A Yorkshire brewer has made its seasonal Grouse Beater ale available to the off-trade following on-trade success.

T&R Theakston has launched the fruity ale exclusively into Waitrose for six months. It will then be rolled out to all off-trade channels in March 2008.

The deal follows the completion of a six-month exclusive listing with the retailer for another seasonal ale, Theakston Paradise.

The 4.2% abv Grouse Beater, which is brewed using blackberries, is dry-hopped to give a delicate aroma. Blueberry juice is added at a critical stage in the fermenting process to give the golden brown ale a light and fruity flavour.

The beer has only been available to the on-trade since 12 August, which was the start of the grouse-shooting season. It is packaged in 500ml bottles, priced at £1.79.