THERE'S a continuing trend for our major brewers to follow down the "all natural" path, cutting out preservatives and additives.
This is commonplace in Europe and in Germany; the German Beer Purity Law decrees all beers be made naturally.
Carlton Natural is the latest brew to deliver a noadditive, low-carb beer and is aimed at a section of the market looking for something different.
It is a dry lager beer that is light in colour and aroma, clean and crisp across the palate and doesn't sit heavily in the gut.
However, it doesn't have a distinctive flavour or the bitterness you may associate with other Carlton products.
I'm disappointed there isn't a distinct lingering aftertaste and found it lacking that certain quality that adds to a beer's sessionability.
I would certainly knock a few over on a hot day, but with the beer market now producing beers that challenge you taste-wise, it will be interesting to see if the natural aspect of this beer is enough to build a following.
It's a lager I think has more appeal in the summer months and is versatile enough to go with any occasion. It also looks pretty snazzy with an impressive label.
With its low-carb component, blonde drinkers may give this a go, but be warned: it's full strength at 4.5 per cent yet doesn't come across as such, probably because of its light nature.
If you're not a big beer drinker, Carlton Natural is one you may find appealing, but if you do like more robust flavours just tell yourself all the good things about it: its low carb with nothing artificial.
MY TIP
Carlton Natural needs to be served cold. It's a beer to get the party started so to speak, or the have after some yard work.
Natural will appeal to those who enjoy subtle flavours in their beers. At around $15 a 355ml six pack, it's not bad value.