PALE ales have always been favourites of mine because of what they offer the senses.
A good quality pale ale is almost as appealing through its aroma as well as the taste, and the Endeavour Reserve Pale Ale from Sydney is such a drop.
It is slightly cloudy with a straw-coloured appearance and a good, tight, white head.
After appreciating the appearance, take time to enjoy the strong fl oral bouquet, which leaves you in know doubt as to the nature of this ale.
There’s a distinct citrus note to it and for mainstream drinkers, it may be a little daunting at fi rst but once you take it in, it does help you appreciate the flavours on offer.
The Endeavour is smooth across the palate with good body but isn’t too heavy to make you feel bloated, which is good for a full strength beer at 4.5 per cent.
It has a clean, crisp aftertaste with enough bitterness to have you savouring the flavours on the inside of your mouth before enjoying the next drop. The ale has good sessionability but it isn’t a quaffing beer - you need to sit back, relax and enjoy this ale.
Ideally suited as a starter before a meal, it would go well with Asian dishes or light summer-style foods such as salads or seafood. It’s refreshing by nature and would easily quench a thirst. But be aware it is a premium beer so it isn’t cheap.
The flavour and aroma of Endeavour Pale Ale may put some people off or it may entice those who aren’t big beer drinkers in - especially women who may not like the smell of commercial brands.
I’m sure this is one Endeavour that old Captain Cook would have gladly been on.
MY TIP
Serve this nice and cold in a tall or balloon-type glass to appreciate the bouquet and presentation of the pale ale. This is a top end premium ale so be prepared to pay for it at $18 for a four pack of 330ml stubbies. Is it worth it, but you be the judge.