A new release from Christchurch’s IPA specialists, the Volstead Trading Company this 6.5 per cent IPA is fueled by American Sultana and Chinook hops. The aroma brings bright grapefruit citrus, zesty orange peel and spice over an expressive malt richness.  The palate follows up with a big citrus kick and sticky pine, with a robust and expressive malt base for all those hops to hang onto.  Long and bitter finish punctuated by lingering citrus notes.  A big, robust and satisfying IPA in the classic West Coast style.

Slow Walk Through Paradise — Visiting Every Brewery in NZ

by | October 10, 2025 | Cover Story | 0 Comments

There’s something about beer that’s always been part of my story. From the early days of sneaking sips of Lion Brown at my dad’s feet and walking around the house with my ‘beer mou’, to the $2 jugs of Joseph Kuhtze Lager at the Southern Cross Tavern during University...
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Fermented Culture — The Third Place

by | October 9, 2025 | Cover Story, Opinion | 0 Comments

Earlier this year a battle was fought in the leafy hills to the north of Wellington. A liquor license was being sought for what was once Dick Mead Motors and the Onslow Service Station. The resident’s association successfully applied for an extension to the decision...
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The Mighty Moutere Inn Celebrates 175 Years

by | October 9, 2025 | Travel | 0 Comments

They started off no different to everyone else.  Four blokes used to British and European choices find options in New Zealand limited.  In 2008 good beer is being brewed but few places are yet to sell it.  They hold a few beer festivals, find the...
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Knocking On (Ben) Heaven’s Door

by | October 8, 2025 | Cover Story | 0 Comments

When Heaven’s Brewing burst onto the national stage with a Top 25 at the New World Beer & Cider Awards, it seemed like they’d come from nowhere. But I reckon anyone who tried their Judas Sheep Czech-style dark lager will appreciate this is no flash in the pan...
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3D Puts Isthmus On The Map

by | October 6, 2025 | Features | 0 Comments

For the husband-and-wife team behind Isthmus Brewing, winning champion beer at this year’s New World Beer & Cider Awards continues a nice upward trend following some “dark times”. Hamish Ward and Caroline Muller-Ward are two of the nicest people in the beer...
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Boneface Blood & Bone Oaked Stout

by | October 6, 2025 | Recommended | 0 Comments

Since their recent ownership shakeup, Brewtown’s (aka Upper Hutt's) Boneface Brewery have been rolling out new releases with a relentless energy, such that I’ve had some samples piling up shamefully in the auxiliary fridge.  This week I’m finally making some headway...
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