So it’s orientation week, which must mean the first university trimester of 2009 is about to begin. This surely conjures images of stress, procrastination, tests, exams, more procrastination, a low income and just crap in general. Luckily we have a student’s best friend to help you through all of this shit: beer.
But with so much crap already ahead of you this year, why would you add shit beer to that list? The typical student attitude towards beer is ‘more beer is better’. I go with the philosophy of ‘better beer is better’. It is my hope that I can help steer you away from the typical Tui dozen and give you a leg up to the next level of quality beer.
The disadvantage of my philosophy is that better beers tend to cost considerably more than your average six pack. To follow this philosophy during O-Week would be more than the average student’s pocket can handle. So I’ll steer away from the boutique beers this week and focus on beers that taste great – but won’t cost (much) more than your average dozen. All of these beers are $12 or less per half dozen (or equivalent).
Gisborne Gold is a reasonably priced beer with a few surprises. When I first saw the logo, reminiscent of Speight’s, I expected something similar. What I tasted however, is a crisp golden lager with a nicely hopped aroma and refreshingly bitter flavour. Available in bottles, but much cheaper in 2L riggers from Regional Wines and Spirits.
Bavaria 8.6 is a good option for those looking for something stronger but not wanting to venture into RTDs. Specially created for the French market, this sweet malty beer, sometimes called a “malt liquor”, will make you feel happy quicker than most beers. Probably due to the 7.9% alcohol volume and 500mL cans. This is one of the more tolerable of the malt liquors in the world and avoids the usual strong alcohol flavour.
Mac’s Hop Rocker Pilsener is one of my favourite of the Czech pilsener style of beer. Pilsener style beers tend to have a strong hop character, achieved by a later addition of hops during the boil. Mac’s Hop Rocker has strong citrus fruit and grape aromas, and tastes full of grapefruit and lemon zest. Grab a six pack of this if you see it on special, because I said so.
So when you’re orientating yourself stupid this week, do it with a tasty brew in your glass (yes, please use a glass!).
If you have any questions about this week’s beers or any comments, please e-mail me at davethebeerguy@gmail.com