When you’re thinking of a sessionable beer to drink on an island off the coast of Brisbane, your mind might not immediately go to Belgian styles. But witbiers are fragrant and refreshing and great for cutting through other flavours – or just cutting through the heat on a sunny afternoon.
Traditionally, you’ll find witbiers spiced with coriander seed and orange peel, but Straddie Brewing have gone full tropical and spiced theirs with hibiscus flowers. The resulting beer carries light layers of spice, fruit, and floral notes, all wrapping up with a soft earthy bitterness from the Slovenian hops. There’s also a clear tartness ringing through the middle and a spritzy effervescence that keeps your tongue stimulated while the flavours do their thing.
At the brewery, they recommend pairing this one with their Noci e Miele pizza: goat’s cheese, Straddie local honey and walnuts, all on a base that’s been slow fermented for 48 hours for the perfect texture. I can imagine that floral tartness cutting through the soft and sweet pizza like it’s nobody’s business.
Mick Wüst
Published February 5, 2023 2023-02-05 00:00:00
