YOU only truly get to appreciate the importance of Australia’s annual hop harvest when you are a lover of beer.
Being one of the most crucial of ingredients, it’s not really surprising that there are a number of breweries now producing beers to mark this important occasion, one of them being the Malt Shovel Brewery, makers of the famed and tasty James Squire range.
The James Squire Hop Thief is the third version of this limited release and in keeping with the previous releases features a strong aromatic quality which sets it apart from the run-of-the-mill beers.
The floral bouquet is an indication of the unique blend of flavour which is in Hop Thief though being a seasonal limited release, you shouldn’t expect this to be the same each year.
I have it on good authority that this is a slightly more bitter Hop Thief than the last batch.
That may not be to everyone’s taste but I found it full flavoured ale with good body and well-suited to the cooler months when you want something that is filling as well as satisfying.
There remains an interesting mix of citrus flavours with the hops used leaving a distinctive aftertaste.
I found this very moorish (as is the case with many James Squire beers).
It has rich dark caramel colour with a good head and at five percent has a full body to boot.
It is a slightly heavier beer and can be filling but its ‘sessionability’ is great, especially for those who enjoy flavoursome beers which are challenging, not predictable.
Hop Thief might lend itself well spicy meat dishes such as curries, a good hearty broth (with a decent splash of red wine and pepper) or even a strong cheese.
However I would also suggest for those who enjoy savouring their beers, pouring into a balloon-type glass and allow the aroma combine with the flavour.
MY TIP
Hop Thief needs to be served cold but not chilled and preferably in a glass which allows you to appreciate the bouquet and appearance of the ale. It is a slightly heavier beer but well-suited for the cooler months when you don’t mind having a filling feeling in your belly.
Hop Thief has a distinctive bouquet but as stated, is a bit bitter due to the hops. It’s a cooler climes ale so think about winter dishes that have spice and substance. At five percent it will give you a glow and at around $19 per six pack of 330ml stubbies, you’d want to be quick as this is a strictly limited release (only 11,000 cases produced). Check it out through the James Squire website at www.jamessquire.com.au