Summer has arrived in a rush...32 degrees in Sydney today...so naturally a cold beer hits the spot, and becomes the topic of discussion around many backyard barbies. Gone are the days when you simply choose XXXX (if you're a Queenslander), or Tooheys (if you're in NSW) or VB or Carlton Draught (if you're unfortunate enough to come from Victoria).
In recent years I've switched from Hahn Ale to Carlton Cold to Pure Blonde and now enjoying dark ales and stouts more often.
I've been over to Germany a few times to attend the world's largest graphic arts expo DRUPA in Dusseldorf, and really enjoyed their "alt" beers over there...sitting in a beer garden on the banks of the Rhine in the Dusseldorf region on a summers day is magic!
Used to visit a little micro-brewery in the Alt Town there quite often "The Fuschen" for huge serves of roast pork knuckles, cabbage, potatoes and many beers...found their URL...still going strong & I highly recommend.
A couple of very good beers I've enjoyed recently:
Hunter Bock brewed by Keith at the Hunter Beer Company just outside Cessnock...also makes a fantastic Chocolate Porter and an Oyster Stout...premium priced but premium enjoyment.
Mudgee Porter brewed by the Mudgee Brewing Co...smooth and mellow.
Pepperberry Winter Ale brewed by Chuck Hahn at James Squire (very good, different website, well worth a visit)...a limited release beer with caramel, chocolate sweetness courtesy of the Australian pepperberry.
All excellent beers. Very tough research work this...but I will grin and bear it, and continue on trying to find the perfect ale!
PS: GO BRONCOS tonight! Knockout final against the Melbourne Storm. Good luck lads!
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