The Taming of the Brew: Craft Beers of the WeekBy Charlie Roper and Callum McCall
Thankfully it’s cooled down a bit. We can all relax and maybe, just maybe, get back on the tube. If you drank your way through and are in need of a break, we’ve got just the thing. And if you didn’t or don’t fancy stopping then we have a perfect summer something for your delectation.
The Taming of the Brew: Staple Beer
Staple Beer: Nirvana Beer Co, Sutra IPA, 0.5% ABV
Where to Drink it: Get it online here
What is it: A (very nearly) alcohol free IPA. Through adaptations to the classic brewing process and some high tech wizardry, the team at Nirvana Brewery create a range of non-alcoholic beers. This is their IPA and whilst the booziness is obviously gone, there are plenty of hops here to give you grassy, fruity, floral flavours.
In Our Own Words:
Charlie – “As a rule I’m not really into alcohol-free beer – it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to me – but I have to salute the team at Nirvana for this. Whilst it lacks the warmth that only alcohol can bring, there is freshness from the hops and just enough body to bring that wonderful IPA-y mouthfeel. A lot of non-alcoholic beers taste of malt – like thin, carbonated ovaltine – but this doesn’t , it’s well rounded and very refreshing!”
The Taming of the Brew: Blindside Beer
Blindside Beer: Curiouser and Curiouser Ch. 2 Elderflower Saison, Curios Brewery, Kent & BBNo, London, 7.3% ABV
Where to Drink it: Blues Kitchen, EC2A or Majestic or direct
What is it: Curious Brewery is the beer making arm of Chapel Down Wines in Kent producing excellent staples Curious Brew (lager) and Curious IPA (urrr IPA). This is their second small batch beer brewed in collaboration with BBNo and it’s an absolute belter. A saison brewed with elderflower (you don’t get more summery than that) and grapefruit alongside decidedly winey Halleratu Blanc and Huell Melon hops (stick to your strengths I guess?).
In Our Own Words:
Charlie – “This is absolutely superb. One of the best saisons I have ever had. Perfect funk on the nose. Lovely toasty flavour giving way to elderflower, melons and jasmine. This is a limited run so get some whilst you can
