Out of the heart of Hobart come two very different seasonal releases from Shambles Brewery, both of which are more typically seen during the summer months. First is the Tasmanian Blackcurrant Sour – the latest instalment in Shambles’ series of red and purple berry-infused sours.
Perfect for cosy nights spent nestled by the fire, binge-watching the latest Bridgerton, this fruited sour challenges the notion that this style is reserved just for the summer months. Like a “grown-up’s Ribena”, the blackcurrant sour pours with a deep purple hue. Utilising blackcurrants from Westerway Berry Farm, the rich flavour of the fruit carries through surprisingly authentically. Juicy tartness is balanced nicely with the sort of herbaceous astringency you get from eating the berries straight off the plant. And all those antioxidants have to be good for you, right?
On the other end of the spectrum is Larga. Sporting an old school can design (and likely a nod to the bygone KB lager), this classic Helles lager pours a deep golden straw, under a soft white foam. With a dash of noble hops and a pleasant malt sweetness, it's crisper than a winter's morning and cleaner than the air down here in Tassie. It’s a simple beer, but they say that simplicity is perfection.
Kelsey Picard & Matthew Fielding
Published June 1, 2024 2024-06-01 00:00:00