Hand of Doom, an American Strong Ale from Boneface Brewing has gone straight to the top of my short-list for the best beers of 2021. The American Strong Ale is not something you see a lot of in New Zealand. Most recently Liberty High Carb Ale comes to mind and Panhead’s Vindicator. But I love the huge double down of this style with malt and hops both amped up and wrestling each other to a stand-still. Yet despite the gargantuan nature of the beer, the whole package is somehow gently comforting and smoothly drinkable with just enough alcohol heat and raw edge energy to keep your tastebuds wedded to what comes next. I was sad to see the last sip disappear.Â