Epic Beer

Instead, and in honour of Lance Dodd's departure from Marlborough, I'd like to end this week's column with a recommendation for one of his favourite Kiwi beers. Over a farewell beer last Friday evening, Lance told me that each time he went to the supermarket he used to buy a four pack of Epic Pale Ale. It's an excellent choice.

Judged supreme champion beer at the 2006 New Zealand International Beer Awards, Epic Pale Ale was probably, at the time, this country's hoppiest beer. Modelled on the American west coast-style of pale ale, this golden brew bursts with the pine and citrus fragrance and flavours of America's famous Cascade hops, balanced with just enough biscuity malt sweetness.

Even today, when there are even bigger and bolder pale ales available – not the least Epic's sister brews Mayhem and Armageddon – Epic Pale Ale is still one of the few Kiwi beers that would raise a smile on the lips of beer-loving Californians.

Cheers Lance! All the best mate.

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Those who think otherwise would be well advised to try a bottle of a Kiwi beer with real flavour, like Epic Mayhem. The latest seasonal release from Auckland brewer Luke Nicholas is a hugely hopped, 6.2 per cent, American-style, IPA (India Pale Ale). Southern Man's favourite brew contains around one hop per bottle; Nicholas estimates there are around 26 in each 500ml bottle of Mayhem! You get the idea?

Mayhem is similar to the brewery's multi award-winning Epic Pale Ale but with the volume turned up! Bursting with US Cascade and New Zealand Riwaka hops, there's a heady aroma of tropical fruit, citrus and pine-like notes over a sweetish, biscuity malty background. The grist, which includes British pale ale, and Munich and crystal malts, provides a luscious rich malt base that balances the beer's challenging bitterness.

With a single 500ml bottle of Mayhem costing about the same as a six-pack of Speight's, aspirant Southern Men are unlikely to be impressed, but those seeking flavour rather than just refreshment from their beer should definitely check it out.

But be warned, Mayhem as the name suggests is definitely NOT for wusses!

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Epic Pale Ale features on the front page of the LIPS - Liquor Information Pricing Search website.

Epic Pale Ale - Hop Fuelled Taste

Supreme Champion award winner, from a local craft brewery in Auckland.

Each bottle is packed full of US grown Cascade hops, 3000% more hops than your average beer. Epic has the aroma & flavour intensity that you would expect from wine.

Available in 6 x 330ml pack at 5.4% abv.