THERE’S nothing like a full-flavoured dark ale to warm the bones when it gets a bit chilly.
Even though the weather is getting warmer, we still get the odd excuse to indulge in cold-weather comfort food and my latest indulgence is White Rabbit Dark Ale from Healesville in Victoria.
Actually the brewery, where White Rabbit is from, only makes one type of beer — and this is it.
White Rabbit is a rich, smooth, full-flavoured, full-bodied dark ale with a great taste of malt and hops.
It has a fragrant aroma which hints of fruitiness, something youwould expect in a dark ale but in keeping with a darker ale style, there’s a great aftertaste which really allows the malts to come through, finishing off with just a hint of bitterness.
The result is a beer which definitely draws you back for another.
It’s no light weight either, at 5.2 per cent, but it isn’t a beer which packs an initial punch – in fact you could say there is more of a "rabbit punch" to this ale (sorry about the pun), it sneaks up on you.
It has no preservatives or additives and is made using an open fermentation method (which home brewers may find very interesting).
I would suggest a hearty stew, casserole or even a beef roast but you could also find yourself finishing offameal with this (and a port).
It’s a very sessionable ale because it is so easy to drink and with a rich colour to match its body and flavour, you could easily find this White Rabbit taking off to wonder land – wonder where you can find some more!
MY TIP
Serve this dark ale cold but not chilled and in a tulip/balloon style glass to allow all your sense to appreciate it.
It is a strong beer but one where you could enjoy a few but isn’t one to have big session on – this is a heavier style of beer. If you like dark ales this could be for you as it does have a rich full flavour. In the warmer months it is definitely an evening beer because of its strength but that doesn’t mean you could enjoy it at any time, just remember it’s 5.2 percent. While not widely available (yet), you could ask your local stockist to get some in as the brewery will supply it or order direct by going to www.whiterabbitbeer.com.au
Prices will vary depending on delivery for the 330ml stubbies but expect it to be up in the premium beer price bracket for a six pack.