They like to keep the core range fairly classic at Ballarat's Aunty Jacks brewpub, and when you pick up their IPA you’ll understand why. The West Coast-inspired beer contains Cascade, Simcoe and Citra, while its pale golden and clear appearance lets you know that, by and large, here’s a beer designed to let hops reign supreme.
The American trio creates a mix of piney, earthy and resinous characters, which are joined by a fruit-forward mix of lime, grapefruit, pineapple and stonefruit, all leaping from the glass while allowing space for each other. But while hops are the star, beneath those is an appealing malt bill that further enhances the IPA’s drinkability, with a touch of rye, alongside Vienna and pale malts providing a little spice along with sweet biscuity flavours before the beer’s bitter finish kicks in.
Will Ziebell