I HAVE found it to be a case of "hit and miss" when it comes to Kiwi beers but that's not to single out New Zealand for that.
Lord knows that on the home front, there are plenty of misses.
A brew I have tried from across the Tasman is NZ Pure Lager.
It has the characteristics of a lager, not quite as heavy, but it's main marketing point is the no preservatives, no additives tag.
Frankly, I don't think this is as much a selling point as it once was, with the vast majority of craft brewers already down this track and a growing number of the major boys following suit as we kid ourselves about consuming healthier products.
NZ Pure is a rich gold in colour, clear with not too much effervescence and a consistent decent head.
It is slightly creamy across the palate, a definite hop aroma and while it doesn't have distinctive pale characteristics, it does have a good degree of bitterness.
This Kiwi drop is easy to drink though it is slightly heavier in the gut, but it's a very `social' beer with decent sessionability. But be warned, this is no lightweight beer at 5 percent.
However I tend to find the pale lagers are a bit of an each-way bet - I'd rather a true lager or pale ale.
Still bro, for a taste of Kiwi and at the price why not give it a go eh?
For details visit www.independentliquor.co.nz/independent-brewery
MY TIP
This is a decent barbecue beer and at around $15 per 330ml six pack through major chains, it is priced competitively.