JOE’s PICKS
Dungarvan Brewing Company – Helvick Gold (4.9)
This is a blonde ale so if you’re a lager drinker and you want to dip your toe in the water of craft brewing, this is for you. It’s very crisp and refreshing, but it’s got a really distinct hoppy taste, but nothing too overpowering.
Songs for the Deaf by Queens of the Stone Age.
Wicklow Wolf – American Amber (4.8)
An American Amber ale is similar to a pale ale, but has more in common with Irish red ales, but the hops are more pronounced and tastier.
Blue Lines by Massive Attack
McGargles - Francis Big Bangin' IPA (7.1)
IPA stands for India Pale Ale, which comes from the method in which ales were exported from England to India, back in the mid and late 19th century, and the ales were packed with hops to preserve them more. This is new, it’s unfiltered and unpasteurised, and uses some really powerful aromatic tropical hops, like the mosaic hop.
Abbey Road by the Beatles //
St. Mel’s Brown Ale (5.2)
It’s a great combination of chocolate and caramel flavours, but light citrus hop flavours too. For me it’s a real autumnal or winter drink.
The Suburbs by Arcade Fire, or any album by Arcade Fire.
Rascal’s Brewing Big Hop Red (5)
This could be another entry-level craft beer for people who are accustomed to drinking typical red ales. It’s very hoppy but not bitter and it’s quite balanced.
Ill Communication by the Beastie Boys.
Third Circle Rye Stout (5)
Very distinct character to this stout, earthy and malty, coffee and chocolate hints, made using rye malt, instead of barley.
The Planets by Gustav Holst.
Brewers worth a mention:
Eight Degrees
White Hag
And St. Brigid’s Ale, brewed by two sisters from Kildare town, whose father owns a pub and off-license in the square called Boyle’s.
SORCHA’s PICKS
Barefoot Bohemian Pilsner Lager, 4% by Eight Degrees
Althea, a session American pale ale 4.8% by Galway Bay
Little Fawn, Session IPA, 4.2% White Hag
Mescan Red Tripel, 8% - a big one but great for Christmas dinner
