“It’s an Australian Lager but it’s not. It’s a Steam Ale but it’s not. It’s a hop bomb but it’s not. It’s a session beer and a geek fest at the same time. It’s simple, really, but it’s complex. Have we bastardised an Australian tradition? Have we sold out the Craft fraternity? Have we conflated a cultural icon with a computer icon? Have we over-thought this? Yes. Yes we have.”
Glassware: Stemmed Flute.
Appearance: Clear golden amber with a solid two fingers head on top. It gradually retracts and weaves a fine lace as it subsides.
Aroma: Fresh herbal and lime citrus notes meet the olfactory’s. Grassy hops, straw, subtle honey and cereal grains, white grapes and umami crackers fill it out. Interesting nose – lots of hop character built on a sturdy grainy malt base.
Flavour: Clearly takes on more of a lager/steam ale approach. Grainy/cracker malts, a hint of honey sweetness and a touch of starchy vegetables on entry. Grassy/herbal hop notes through the middle that roll in to a somewhat dry and peppery finish. Good length.
Mouthfeel: Light on, rather fizzy and vibrant with mild-medium body. Subtle bitterness midway (35 IBU). 5% ABV keeping a low profile.
Overall: Being 80’s baby’s the kind of Atari-esque label certainly caught our eye but the beer itself didn’t really wow us a lot. Not bad, we’ll be reaching for something a little stronger of theirs next time.