These days when you hear “Australian beer”, chances are good that Fosters won’t come to mind. Like most Australians, our tastes are relatively diverse, often expanding beyond our borders, and yet we maintain a passion for our local brews.
We’ve compiled a go-to list of some of our favourite Aussie beers that have been inspired by local and international brewing techniques and flavours.
1. Hawkers Pale Ale (5.2% Alc/Vol)
Call us biased, but there’s a reason this is Melbourne’s fastest growing brewery. And while they stick to a modest range of four frothy delights, their Pale Ale is a crowd favourite; quintessentially American, hop forward yet very balanced. One that will appeal to beer- and non-beer drinkers alike.
2. Feral White (4.6% Alc/Vol)
Based on true Belgian style, but every bit of a WA export, this Feral Brewing Co beer is both complex and tame at the same time; cloudy and unfiltered, with a unique spicy citrus finish. Offer this to mates who want to try something different without the fear of going too far out of their comfort zone.
3. Hawthorn Pilsner (4.5% Alc/Vol)
If you haven’t given this one a crack yet, Hawthorns Pilsner will not disappoint, as judged by several of the world’s leading brewery competitions. Mildly bitter with a tropical fruit character, you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical holiday. Hawthorn are producing some outstanding beverages that are sure to refresh and bring out your patriotic side this Australia Day.
4. Furphy Refreshing Ale (4.4% Alc/Vol)
We’re not telling any furphies when we say this is on high rotation in the Tipple office. Produced like an old German Kolsch, you’ll enjoy the clean, crisp balance of malt and hops for a refreshing finish. Just as an Aussie beer doesn’t need more slang, this one needs no further introduction than “refreshing ale”.
5. Barrow Boys Stormy Lager (4.7% Alc/Vol)
Inspired by Melbourne’s weather, this lager is crafted to enjoy no matter the season. And while we can’t predict the weather, we predict you’ll enjoy the malty, hoppy, thirst-quenching bitterness either with your bbq or on its own.
We could go on, but these five should give you a red-hot start at combining your passion for the locals with your curiosity of the global beer scene.
Drink responsibly. Drink different.
