Our favourite brewery and pub in
Christchurch (and possibly the world) was The
Twisted Hop. It was severely affected by the February earthquake. On a
recent visit to our wine and beer supplier I was intrigued to see some beer had
come out of the brewery.
This a strong ale (10.5%), the Mag 6.3
refers to the seismologic intensity of the event.
The back explains a bit more about the
provenance of the brew – I have transcribed it below. We wish all in Christchurch
good luck in re-establishing their businesses and lives. May it not be too long
before we can sample fresh brews from this wonderful brewery.
For the record the ale was very drinkable,
quite heavy (as you would expect) with a marmaladey flavour.
Barley Wine is the English term for a
brewer’s strongest offering – so fear
not, it is indeed a beer best served at room temperature with a strong blue
cheese.
This batch, though, is a little special.
What you hold in your hands sat in the Red Zone cordon from February 22nd
until August 8th, 2011. While we watched Poplar Lanes crumble from
behind military guarded fences, made countless calls to insurance companies and
officialdom; shovelled liquefaction and tidied our homes (again); this barley
wine sat patiently, avoiding looters and damage from yet another major June
quake.
Savour this superb drop when you have a
moment to sit, enjoy and reflect. The little pleasures we take for granted are
amongst those we miss the most when lost.
Christchurch and The Twisted Hop will rise
again, of that we’re certain. So if you need something to raise a glass to we
hope that will suffice.
