I was enjoying my second pint of Canberra Pride with the then Master Brewer for the Wig & Pen pub, Richard Pass. Richard was explaining the palate qualities of a higher temperature, slightly hopped, slightly malty ale and, being dedicated to the enjoyment of all things brown, dark brown and black, I was into it.
In keeping with this tour and with my palate being challenged at every mouthful, Richard suggested a change to an effervescent cold Kiandra Gold.
This was really hitting the spot, and two of these — followed by explanations and tasting of the wonderful Ballyragget Red — had me slightly infected but raring to go.
Richard’s next choice, the intriguingly named but superb tasting Aviator Bock, had me asking for detailed recipes and further explanation regarding its naming. I must confess that by now Richard was slightly infected himself.
With some mirth he announced the following: ‘Bock is a high alcohol content dark beer enjoyed by German landowners and the like and one should look out for one’s self when consuming more than the one or two. In fact, true to its name, “Bock” is the last thing you will hear as your head hits the tiles on the pub floor!’
So endeth the tour and the lesson.