They’ve long been known for their bold beers at Deeds but restraint can be just as much the star, which is certainly the case for Le Lapin Blanc. Having said that, it’s a bit of a bold move to release a witbier in Australia in 2023 given how much hops rule the roost, so you could say the Belgian-style beer is as bold as they come. Follow the white rabbit and you'll be greeted by wonderfully delicate mix of a true classic, with coriander, orange peel and a touch of bergamot all combining for a refreshing release where a slice of lemon, though optional, should be strongly considered.
Don’t Dream It’s Over meanwhile, is a bit of a suqual to followup to Deeds’ Something So Strong. Well, in the sense that both star Kiwi hops and are named after Crowded House songs, with a NZ pilsner not quite (or in any way) the same apporach as a double IPA. Here, Riwaka and Motueka deliver enough stonefruit, lemon and tropical notes to show you there's freedom both without and within and a bitterness that's like a beat of a drum while also being enough to count the steps to the door of your heart.
Turning things up a notch is Galactic Encounter, a triple IPA that is 10.5 percent ABV and again reaches for Motueka but partners it with Citra and BRU-1. Dry hopped with some 22 grams per litre, it's thick space beast that touches down with papaya, orange juice, rockemlon and a side of sweet pineapple.
Will Ziebell
Published November 28, 2023 2023-11-28 00:00:00