The whole process of putting Smith together is an experiment
of sorts, so why not add one more to the mix? Introducing Smith
Farmhouse Ale, a collaboration with Sydney brewer Young Henry's.
Over
the past week the Young Henry's team has been brewing the
French/Belgian-style ale using Tassie Summer hops, Belgian golden ale
yeast and wild Australian honey from Malfroy's Gold
in the nearby Blue Mountains. The result is closest to a Bière de
Garde: a pale-ale that used to quench the thirst of workers in the
agrarian days of old Europe.
The final brew was bottled yesterday
and it's a cracker. "There's a beautiful melding of flavours between
the ester profile from the Belgian golden ale yeast and the honey,"
reports head brewer Richard Adamson. "It's a bright golden beer with
bready tropical fruit aromas, and hints of banana and apricot with a
touch of sweetness."
The full process (recipe included) is featured in Smith Journal volume five and Smith Farmhouse Ale will be on tap at Young Henry's
and at select places around Sydney during December. It's already on tap
at the Station Bar in Katoomba, with other venues to follow when Smith hits the stands on Monday. Check the Young Henry's site, follow us on Twitter, or like the Facebook for updates.
Smith Journal volume five is on shelves in Australia on December 3. Pre-order a copy here. Find your closest stockist here, or subscribe here.