INTERNATIONAL diplomacy may have been creating rifts the world over, but here in Hampshire, there is perfect accord between the British, French and Americans, thanks to Horndean brewer George Gale and Co.

The reason for this is that Gales is in the middle of creating a fascinating fusion of the best of French and English flavours - and their aim is to create a unique ale, which is to be bought by the American market.

For the first time in its history, Gales Prize Old Ale is to spend six months maturing in oak Calvados barrels, sent by special delivery from Domaine Familial Etienne Dupont of Normandy. It will then be bottled and despatched to its transatlantic destination.

The limited edition of 120 cases has been ordered by an American distributor who is a loyal customer of Gales ales, and who, says head brewer Derek Lowe, "is looking for a truly unique flavour from a heritage ale."

"We expect the Prize Old Ale to take up the apple flavour of the Calvados," says Derek Lowe, whose team will be rolling the oak barrels each week between now and September, when the ale will be ready for bottling.

Beer Hunter Michael Jackson - the world's most widely known consumer-writer on beer - says that Prize Old Ale has "that Calvados-apple character" and "a dry, sappy, apples and black treacle fruitiness" that no doubt will be enhanced by this innovative exercise.

The popularity of Prize Old Ale (ABV nine per cent) is growing the world over, with exports going as far afield as Japan.