If you thought Rotovegas was all about bubbling mud, spouting geysers and stinky hot pools then think again, because it happens to be the aromatic capital of New Zealand in more ways than one.
Based in Ngongotaha, at 49 Depot St, Rotorua, Croucher Brewing is a microbrewery destined for big things.
Its pale ale has the glossy, onion-skin gold hue in the glass, and on the nose it's lifted, malty and moorish. New Zealand Cascade hops are used here to create a full-flavoured, tangy, infinitely aromatic beer with a persistent, creamy head and exceptional length of flavour.
To brew the pale, caramel-coloured Croucher Pilsner, owners Paul Croucher and Nigel Gregory use Motueka and Riwaka hops, and methinks that's the secret to this beer winning the trophy for Champion International Lager at BrewNZ 2010. "Luscious, biscuity malts and an up-front fruity hit from the hops," says the tasting notes, and I'd have to totally agree. But it also has a lovely hit of roast chicken and sage aromas - which may sound odd - but it's completely alluring and comforting at the same time.
Paul and Nigel have also made a point of mentioning they're now pasteurising their bottles of pale ale and pilsner ($6.50, 500ml), which increases the shelf life to nine months and makes the beers more stable. www.croucherbrewing.co.nz
