Defending Guinness

A former Foster's brewer and beer-judging colleague, Dermot O'Donnell, recently defended locally brewed Guinness.

James Davidson wrote in Australian Brews News before St Patrick's Day, "The money you spend on such a pint [Australian brewed Guinness] and the beverage you subsequently consume may actually be more distant to Ireland than the foam shamrock hat on your head that you purchased from a two dollar shop."

But O'Donnell's response traced the modern history of Guinness, including the development in Ireland of a vital flavouring component, called Guinness flavour extract. "This is the X factor in Guinness which gives it is unique character," he says - adding that Guinness therefore has the unique taste of Ireland no matter where it's brewed in the world.

O'Donnell called for a fair go for Guinness and "us Irish who love the black stuff on Paddy's Day".

Robinsons Old Tom Strong Ale with Ginger 330ml $5.85

The back label says this is a blend of respected British brands, Old Tom Strong Ale and Fentiman's Ginger Beer. The luxurious, 6 per cent alcohol, deep mahogany ale leads with a seductive earthy, spicy, gingery aroma. The generous, warm, piquant, gingery palate matches the aroma precisely.

5/5

Moon Dog Love Tap Double Lager 330ml $5.32

From Abbotsford, Victoria, Moon Dog Double Lager combines four malts (pilsner, carared, carapils and chocolate) with three hops varieties (galaxy, motueka and tettenang). This produces a deep-golden colour, a rich, sweet, malty palate, balanced by layers of bitterness and citrus-like flavours from the hops.

4/5