Kinnegar Brewing, based in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland, is renowned for its commitment to traditional brewing methods while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of innovation. With the Low Tide Low Alcohol Pale Ale, they've once again showcased their prowess in the craft beer industry.
The journey of crafting the Low Tide was not without its challenges. The initial wave of alcohol-free beers in the late 1980s and early 1990s often resulted in beverages that were overly sweet and lacked the authentic beer flavour. Modern technology has allowed larger breweries to filter out alcohol and then use flavourings to compensate for the taste gap left by the missing alcohol. However, Kinnegar Brewing, with its ethos of traditional brewing, took a different approach. They embarked on a mission to produce a traditionally fermented low alcohol beer that would satisfy even their own discerning palates.
The process required a complete re-evaluation of their brewing techniques, from selecting the right malt and yeast to refining mashing and sparging methods. After several trials on their pilot system, they achieved the desired result with Low Tide. The decision to increase the ABV slightly from 0.5% to 1% was to give the beer the body it needed to complement the hops. The result is a beer with a fresh, citrusy aroma, thanks to a restrained dry hop, and a flavour profile that is both crisp and refreshing.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Light amber hue with a slight haze, reminiscent of a serene sunset.
- Aroma: Fresh and citrusy, evoking images of orchards in full bloom.
- Flavour: A harmonious blend of malt sweetness with subtle hop bitterness, creating a well-balanced palate.
- Mouthfeel: Light-bodied with a crisp finish, making it incredibly refreshing and easy to drink.
In conclusion, Kinnegar's Low Tide Low Alcohol Pale Ale is more than just a beer; it's a testament to the brewery's dedication to quality and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned beer lover or someone new to the world of craft beers, this pale ale promises a delightful experience without the high alcohol content. So, why wait? Embark on a unique beer journey and purchase online or in-store now.