Sweetwater Pale ale – a gift from a friend who’d just returned from a Kiewa Valley getaway over easter.
They say:
Our Pale Ale is formulated in the American style. With well balanced malt flavour and hop bitterness. It is an easy drinking ale with the fresh, crisp citrus flavours and aromas of the hop varieties featuring.
I’d pretty much have to agree with this, though I don’t know what the ‘American style’ is supposed to mean. This looked like a lager – lovely rich amber colour with a fine, creamy, wheat coloured head. The initial flavour was of burnt caramel, followed closely by that citrus hit and an aftertaste of fragrant hops.
If I had a criticism, it would be that the balance was a bit on the safe side… maybe that’s the American bit. It was just a little too sweet and uncomplicated to be a drink you’d look forward to again and again. On the other hand, it was a fine drink – thoroughly enjoyed it and would rate it as one of my favourites – close to the top. I’d say any visitor to Mount Beauty would be well advised to take home a few souvenirs. Not sure if it’s available down here in the city, but it’s apparently well liked up in the Kiewa Valley. Lucky them!
Sweetwater Brewing Company
http://www.sweetwaterbrewing.com.au/
13 Wallace Street, Mount Beauty