Old Bridge Cellars’ shared coastal and Swan River adjacencies cry out for a beer like this. One that wants fish 'n' chips with feet in the sand while soaking up the sun’s slow retraction into the watery western horizon. Being farm-based, I’ll assume collaborators King Road quite liked such an idea as well.
Indeed, the ascendence of hoppy lagers to become the West Aussie limited release du jour has been as swift as it is pervasive. Here, the light-bodied base features Topaz and Superdelic; the former is said to have a lychee character and, while there is a wisp of said exotic tropical fruit, the palate also carries light peach Starburst flavours and a subtle grassy spiciness.
Add in an ample bitter nudge that rises as the lengthy lean finish whips dry and, given I sampled this on a 35C day, Dry-Hopped Lager didn't stand a chance. I doubt any consumed near Old Bridge Cellars, or King Road’s farm for that matter, will either.
Guy Southern
Published December 4, 2024 2024-12-04 00:00:00
