Emerson’s, the Lion’s Share of the Craft Brew Market.

Emersons, one of the original NZ craft brewers to enter the market, established back in 1992. One year ago was bought out by Lion Nathan and at that time the news of the takeover resulted in a storm of comment on social media with some drinkers speculating that the craft beer maker's product quality would decline under Lion's ownership. In the interests of quality, I’ll partake and see.

Bookbinder.

The label says it all, “anytime refreshing new world ale” and the Booky is exactly that, tasting bigger than its 3.7% abv would suggest. The booky is a well rated beer by overseas beer aficionado Roger Protz in his recent “300 More Beers To Try Before You Die”. Roge has penned over 20 beer books so should be my idol but I rather prefer Ben Smith. Of the eight NZ beers listed, three are from Emersons, suggesting no dodgy beers from this brewery. For me, it’s an all occasion beer, from watching the footy, to rehydrating during a marathon.

1812 Aromatic Hoppy Ale

If cutting the grass on a hot spring afternoon develops a wicked first and the smell reminds you of hops, then this is the brew for you. Don’t drink from the bottle or you’ll miss the marmalade and malt bouquet. Pours a foamy head atop a clear bright amber medium bodied brew. More malt taste than you’d expect from a hoppy ale but its balanced so well with the bite of grassy piny hops and leaves a crisp dry refreshing taste.

Bird Dog IPA. 

Crack the bottle and straight away you get a whiff of fruity grapefruit, then pour out the dark amber full bodied brew that metamorphs into a big foamy white head. Wait a mo for some to settle, then drink the liquid and head together, for a creamy hop hit. I’m guessing American cascade hops in this brew has it has huge bitterness with a spicy citrus tang. Don’t why it’s called bird dog when it could be called the bee’s knees and is perfectly suited for hopaholics and my favourite.

Since the takeover Emersons have won five awards at the recent 2013 Brewers Guild NZ Awards including gold and class trophy for their Dinner Bell in the European Ale Styles.

So, watered down inferior quality product? Yeah right!