OK – the moment we’ve all been waiting for…. The opening of Beer Number 1.
We have a tasty little fella from Grand Ridge Brewery in Gippsland, Australia called “Natural Blonde”.
This is a wheat beer, made with water, malt, hops, orange peel and coriander and yeast. Presumably there is a bit of wheat in there too…
According to the label, it is a Belgian Style beer. It’s light in colour (hence the Blonde) has lots of bubbles/froth, and is quite a tasty beer. I’m not sure I can taste the coriander, but there is a slight hint of citrus in there. It has got quite a strong after taste that lasts for more than an hour. It’s good. Mind you, having visited their website, it appears to be targeted at the ladies, which is sort of a girly way to start FortyBeers.com !!! But, having said that, given it was labelled 1969 and was first in the forty, it is quite fittingly amusing. I was a lovely little blond when I was a wee lad (apparently) so I’m pleased with this first part of my 40 Beers gift.
A visit to the Grand Ridge Brewery Website reveals:
The “natural” is for no preservatives or additives, and the “blonde” as in the classic usage of blonde Belgium ale (wheat beer in Belgium is known as a blonde ale). Being a belgian style beer other high quality ingredients can be used when brewing this classic style – in this case, the infusion of coriander with the addition of orange peel gives it a very subtle yet refreshing finish making it perfect for al fresco or street café dining. An extra touch of fizz and a racey structure make for a very “moreish” drop. It seems this is also a big favourite with the ladies who prefer the softer style beers.
This would be a good 7 out of 10 on the Forty Beers Cheers O Meter.
What will Beer Review 2 bring into our lives ?
Thanks,
Matthew – FortyBeers.com
Please check out the other Beer Reviews on this website.
Tags: Australian Beer, Beer Review, Blonde, Wheat Beer
