Esker have had their Citrus Gose as part of their year-round offering for a while but it somehow slipped through the Crafty net. When it picked up the top gong at the 2024 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show, that was a situation that needed fixing. So, what of this trophy-winner inspired by the citrus farms that used to be found in the part of Hills Shire they call home...?
Starting with its appearance in the glass, and I'll admit it pours rather darker than I was expecting – a deep copper – and possesses a sweetness to match. The fruit of choice for the brewers are mandarin and orange peel and they bring distinct blood orange and ripe mandarin aromas and flavours to the experience. Coriander, salt and a hefty percentage of wheat malt complete the picture in a beer that lands with a tangy quench rather than anything too sour.
In short, an easygoing, fruity crowd (and beer judge) pleaser.
James Smith
Read more about Esker head brewer in our Brew & A with Charlie.
Published November 15, 2024 2024-11-15 00:00:00
