Kirin Ichiban, Kirin Brewery, Japan. A first press lager of considerable elegance. Clean, crisp, a delicate malt finish. I ordered this in an Italian restaurant. Why it arrived in a wine glass, who knows? I’d order wine, but worried that it would arrive in a pint glass 4/5.
Caldey Lollipop IPA, Tenby Harbour Brewery. A Pembrokeshire IPA of considerable charm. Amber, lightly fruity, a gentle hop bitterness. I didn’t drink this one at the Pembrokeshire Beer Festival. I don’t think a 26th beer would have been wise. 4/5.
I’ve just received a message conveying surprise that I’d heard of Snow Patrol. I’ll have you know that I’m familiar with many of these up and coming bands.
Mourne Mist, Mourne Mountains Brewery, County Down. A pilsner of quiet authority. Pale gold, lightly hazy, a gentle bitterness and a clean, refreshing finish. Another great product from Northern Ireland. Up there with George Best, CS Lewis and Snow Patrol 4/5.
O’Lovely, Free Assembly Brewing. Irish Pale Ale. Amber, lightly tropical, a gentle hop bitterness that lingers without demanding attention. The sort of beer one could drink several of without fully noticing. I consider this a compliment. The sheep on the can appear to agree. 4/5.
Fanfarrón, Lúdica Cervecería, Mexico. Hazy pale, tropical fruit, a gentle bitterness and a clean finish. Light, fresh, and considerably more refined than the can suggests. “Fanfarrón” translates roughly as show-off. It is not. It is quietly excellent. 4/5.
I am not drinking tonight. So no review.
Around the World in 25 Beers remains available on Amazon.
I should in the words of my editor, “mention it more.”
There - I have mentioned it. I trust this is sufficient.
It will not be sufficient.
I’ve had a message asking why I’m reviewing so many Mexican beers. It’s not in support of Mexico ahead of Monday morning’s game. I’ve just opened a Mexican beer box from @Beer52HQ
Another Mexican beer. 38 Calibre IPA. An IPA of genuine quality. Golden, tropical, a satisfying bitter finish. The can features a Day of the Dead skull. I have turned the television off. I am a beer critic, not a sports correspondent. The beer is excellent. 4/5.
Caballo Blanco. Hazy, fruity, very good. South Africa 31 England 14. This is my fourth beer. England down to 13 players. I may need a fifth. 4/5 (the beer)
Not sure why the tv is off here. I was concentrating on taking the picture to notice. Oh dear. Another wicket has fallen. Never a fan of the reverse sweep.
Another Mexican beer. PTC Czech Dark Lager. Dark, roasted, smooth. Coffee and malt, a clean finish. The can features what I can only describe as a musical zombie. I am a beer critic, not a psychiatrist. The beer is very good. England are batting better. I am content. 4/5.
Vera Niega, Wendlandt. Golden Ale. Crisp, light, very drinkable. Turned over to see if England are doing any better at rugby. They are 17-0 down. I have poured it I to a proper glass. Perfect head. Small victories. 4/5.
A distinguished porter, rich with cacao and ancho chilli, promising warmth on the palate but no salt - he’s out first ball! Notes of coffee, cinnamon, and a slow-building heat that lingers rather like an lbw appeal. 3/5.
Modest Beer, West Coast IPA. The can informs me it is “piney & fresh” and that I will be “hugging giant redwoods.” I am in my kitchen in my dressing gown. The beer is, however, very good. Resinous, crisp, a clean bitter finish. 4/5.
Homeward bound from Cornwall. A week of sunshine, coastal walks, and rigorous beer research. A wonderful county. My editor messaged me saying that my content on here is great. But not enough to increase my book price back to £2.99 apparently.