“This is an ale that is not afraid of standing tall among other great beers. The intense, sharp and fruity hoppiness is backed by its complex, caramel-like malty structure. Big, yet refreshing. Bold but balanced. This beer has been designed to have it all, to be the greatest common denominator”.
8 Wired Brewing….personally our no.1 Kiwi brewery. This hopped up red ale we poured into a shaker glass. The appearance displays a deep ruby red with a solid two and a half fingers of off white head that retained and releases blotchy lace trails down the walls of the glass. The aroma is pitch perfect with loads of malty driven goodness. Within the aroma a battle between the bitter hops and the smooth caramel malt creates a plethora of gorgeous fragrances. Grapefruit, marmalade, resins, pepper, nuts, caramel and Jaffa are just a few we’re picking up. Absolutely brilliant aroma. Can’t fault it. Mild-medium carbonation with a dry mouth feel. Mirroring the aroma, the palate is alive and vibrant. Initially the big, bitter notes of grapefruit are nicely balanced out by a slightly roasted hint of caramel and malt. Again the roasted characters come out in the mid-palate accompanied by a sharp peppery spice. Smooth malty finish with hints of caramel and nuts round off an impressive palate. Great length. 7% ABV is evident but not enough to note in flavour. Again, impressive. Big ups to Søren for this one. Truly outstanding brew.