When those crazy bearded men at the Byron Bay Brewery decided it was time to brew a winter ale, a solution came to mind that would kill two birds with one stone. ‘When I think of a wintery beer I think of something dark and decadent, rich and hearty, something to sit with in front of a fireplace and slowly sip on while listening to Led Zeppelin or The Rolling Stones,’ says head brewer Alastair Gillespie. ‘But what if you’ve just had a long week at work, you don’t have a fireplace in your overpriced share house, and you actually feel like getting the weekend started? What could we brew that embraces the lively energy of Byron Bay?’
The decision may have some people wondering, but coffee and beer was the answer. Alastair explains: ‘We wanted to take the vibrant and rich coffee notes and match those with the chocolate tones of our dark-roasted malts. We went to our friends Toby and Simon from the Byron Bay Coffee Company, who were more than happy to share some of their delicious lightly roasted Exotic blend of beans. This Exotic blend has a fruity acidity, that pairs well with the smooth richness of the malt.’
The result is Mocha Rocka Coffee Porter. The launch for this fantastic beer is this Friday 11 August at 6.30pm at the Brewery. There will be a free tasting and nibbles, and entertainment from local legends Phil and Tilley.
Friday 11 August, 6.30pm. Byron Bay Brewery, 1 Skinners Shoot Rd, Byron Bay.
