Badger Hopping Hare, Hall & Woodhouse

Regular readers will recall my review back in early April of Hall & Woodhouse's 'Badger Firkin Fox' which scored highly, due in part to its nice refreshing zesty flavouring and earthy quality. This week I sampled another beer from Hall & Woodhouse's wide selection on offer.

Brewer: Hall & Woodhouse

Brew: Badger Hopping Hare

ABV: 4.4%

Awards: Taste of the West Awards - Bronze '09 & '10, Silver '11

British Bottlers Institute Awards

Super-Regional Best Bitter Heat (CAMRA Champion Beer of Britain Competition)

Aroma: Hoppy, Floral

Style: Bitter

Whilst pouring, I'm hit instantly by the pungent hoppy aroma, which is followed by a zesty lemon like smell; This zest lingers in the air whilst I take in the Orange tangy colour. The beer has a large amount of head which suggests the beer is heavily carbonated. Eventually, after the head dissipates I take my first sip, immediately tasting hints of citrus, floral tones and zest which quickly becomes sour. I guess Hall & Woodhouse are trying to invoke a sense of floral refreshment; instead, in my opinion it becomes somewhat overpowering and leaves an overtly bitter, almost acidic aftertaste.

The citrus flavour owes itself predominately to the use of Cascade hops which are typically used by Brewers in the production of zesty floral beers. The hop is commonly used for bittering beers which explains this sourness. It's more than likely that the Aromatic Golding hop was used in conjunction, which like the Cascade hop, produces a subtle sweetness and spiciness, whilst adding even more bitterness to the composition of the beer. These intense hoppy beers are often best drank with a spicy dish like a curry and also compliment red meat.

Whilst I can see the beers appeal, especially on a summer's day, I am finding myself turned off by the sourness of this beer. I feel more balance is required in order to ensure a more drinkable beverage to the average drinker. Less emphasis should be placed on creating this ultra zesty beer. I want to taste the spice of the hops more and ultimately have less of an acidic aftertaste.

2.75/5