Review: New Zealand Draught

New Zealand Draught

Brewery/Brand: Hoppers Grill & Brewing Co.
ABV: 4.0%
Serving Style: Draft

This beer pours a dark orange/amber color with a fluffy two fingers of foam on top. The nose is flowery with spicy malts and a hint of melon. The taste starts with a bit of toffee malts and toasted bread. Grassy hops begin to take over mid-palate. Beneath the bitter grass, there is a bit of ripe-berry flavors and a touch of melon, creating a nicely complex hop profile. The end is pleasantly dry with just a touch of lingering malt creaminess. The finish is crisp on the tongue.

Overview: It’s the rarely used (in North America) Rakau hops that really make this beer shine. The variety hails from New Zealand and is full of pine and berry flavors. This seasonal beer has become so popular at Hoppers that it is now a full-time tap option. It’s definitely worth stopping in to try this unique take on a “Kiwi” pale ale.

Prost!