by Dan Koester on January 30, 2013
As Americans, how much do we really know about brews that are crafted in the land down under, Australia? Many consumers may have had the privilege to have tried some here and there, but what types of ales do they produce there?
The continent is known for many things, beer not being one of them, although it exists. But, hidden within the realms of Australia lie select breweries that brew up something different. Here is a short list of the select brands that Aussies like to drink:
- Cascade Premium – This is a barley malt that is made from the finest water in the world. It has a heavy robust flavor with a bitter taste that has made its way into the States as well.
- Coopers Premium Ale – This is yet another bitter ale. That’s the kind of taste that appeals to drinkers who enjoy dry ales. It has a brown appearance and cropped with fruity undertones. This is a very popular brew in Australia.
- Crown Lager – This is a premium brew that has been ongoing for the last three years. The interesting thing about this ale is that it was designed as an alternative to wine in restaurants. Patrons could have the choice of wine or brew. That’s a new concept in Australian restaurants.
- Hemp Premium – Yes, this ale filters through hemp. Not the illegal kind, but the roots that gives it the red tint and bitter flavor. Hemp Premium is an ale that goes rather well with meat and steak. It has an alcohol content of 4.9 percent and is known to be a Sunday afternoon brew.
- Matilda Bay Premium – You may have noticed these in package stores around the United States. This is a lager with a golden flavor. Its rich taste is a great example of a Czech Pilsner style beer. Again, this is a bitter beer that carries a dry finish to it.
These are a few brews that are made in Australia. There are many more, but these ones are the most popular and top sellers. You can purchase some of these in the United States as well. You may have to do some searching in order to find them as they are in limited quantities.
by Dan Koester on January 24, 2013
Planning a trip to Europe can be a very exciting time in your life. There is so much to see and much to indulge in. If you are planning a trip over there, you might want to plan it around one of their many beer festivals.
These festivals are different from America’s because they offer a taste of some different brews only Europeans have had the pleasure to try. You may think that they are only planned in Germany, but think again because areas such as the Netherlands and Belgium have them as well.
Here is a look at some popular beer festivals in Europe:
- Great British Festival in London - Every August this festival runs on the banks of the Thames River. With all of its events and scenery, it is hard not to attend this one. Each ale is judged there as awards are given out for specific categories. It has been going on since the ‘70s and occurs the first full week of August.
- Belgian Ale Weekend - This festival takes place the first full weekend in September and held in Brussels. They are well known for their specialty ales, especially the ones made by the Trappist monks. This is a unique festival due to its selection of brews. Their Lambic is one of the most popular sellers.
- Oktoberfest – Of course many of you had heard of this festival. Every fall people gather for great German food and brews from all over. This is the most attended festival in the world as it draws in thousands of attendees each year. There are many activities planned for this every year. If you do plan to go, get your tickets early as possible and make reservations in advance.
These are the three most popular beer festivals in Europe. There are many more, but these ones are the most popular every year. If you would like to find out more, you can contact your local travel agent for detailed information. You can also research it on the Internet as well where you will find pictures and directions in case you are considering the journey.
When attending these events, be sure and abide by European laws when it comes to drinking and driving. You may want to take a bus or taxi to the event.
