Hallertau NZ

I was lucky enough to go to Hallertau brewery during labour weekend. It was unplanned but I could not resist the temptation after being blown dry by the west coast wind at Muriwai Beach and seeing the sign “Hallertau 3km” pointing off to Riverhead. I got the tasting rack (only $10) which had five brews, two of which were worth drinking again and again. Their beer is very hoppy compared to any standard nz tap beer (ale or lager). My favourite was the Amber Ale, kind of like a slighter milder Epic Ale, then the Statesman that had a solid hopful kick. You can fill a 1.5 litre bottle for about $7 (a Hallertau refillable bottle costs $10).

So on your next surf mission out to the west coast get a tasting rack, sit back and enjoy another superb nz beer…

Hallertau…….sooooo gooooood

The reason nz beer is so dam good is largely because of the awesome hops grown here. One brewery making the most of them is Hallertau from Riverhead, Auckland, NZ. Their beer is truly amazing and is a family boutique operation born in 2005. Only two years on the scene and these guys are setting a high standard for any new or existing micro brewery in NZ.

It reminds me of Wanaka Beerworks in the way the beer, the company and the look and feel has been carefully put together for a quality beer experience. It is not everywhere so if your lucky enough to come across some Hellertau grab it, grab it all, and drink it all too.

And once you have done that you should go out to Riverhead visit the brewery and have a feed in their restaurant and try a seasonal brew. The photo of the hops above is from their outside seating area. If your a tourist and your thinking about going up the Sky Tower in Auckland, nzbeer suggests flagging and instead go to Hallertau, it will be an unforgettable experience and you will wish you had one in your town. Us kiwi’s are lucky….thanks Hallertau.