The Mash Up Ale is the result of a road trip taken by Epic Founder Luke Nicholas and new kid Kelly Ryan, formally of Thornbridge in the UK. I don’t believe that two men need an excuse to go on a road trip, but this one served as a NZ brewing induction for Kelly and an opportunity to gather ideas for a grand beer collaboration. The trip lasted 17 days and took in 44 of New Zealand’s 50 or so craft breweries. Kelly documented the excursion in his on-line diary and it’s also being produced as an online TV documentary found at
http://nzcraftbeer.tv/
Much has been said and written about whether or not this is a “true collaboration”. I think Epic made a genuine effort to be as inclusive as possible in the preparation of this brew. I also think that in both style and execution the Mash Up is a fitting tribute to New Zealand breweries and brewers. Hoppy Pale Ale is what New Zealand does best.
Pouring a rich golden amber, this is one of the best looking brews I have seen for some time. (Second only to the Emerson Bird Dog, which is practically beer pornography). Sweet at the front before the New Zealand hops release all those pine, lemon peel, grapefruit and passion fruit flavours. Fruity and oily on the palate, the long bitter finish leaves me wanting more. A fitting tribute indeed.
This is a beer that could only be made in New Zealand. I'm probably being a bit too controversial here, but I think it's about time we found a style name to reflect that unique Kiwi character. I'd hate to do another music analogy (not really), but if we can have Pacific Reggae why can't we have Kiwi Pale Ale?
Here's to Mash Up - the worlds first KPA.
Craft Beer TV Mash Up
