Beer reviews: Rabbit & Spaghetti The Fox Hop & Rye lager; 4 Pines Pale Ale

Rabbit & Spaghetti Brewing Co The Fox Hop & Rye Lager 500ml $11.80-$13

We'd all like to believe in Grange for $10 or, as Naked Wine, owner of this beer label, claims, that its customer-funded business model translates to lower prices and higher quality. It's a clever and apparently successful, vertically integrated direct-marketing business. The Fox offers a full, malty flavour with assertive hops bitterness.

★★★½

4 Pines Brewing Company Pale Ale 500ml six-pack $20

Drinking our last bottle of 4 Pines on its expiry date tested its durability. The tropical and citrus-like hops aromas enjoyed in the young brew had faded, leaving the rich, sweet malt flavours to the fore. However, the hops bitterness remained, offsetting the malt sweetness perfectly on the rich, creamy palate.

★★★★