B.man
BrewNZ Gold Medal and Best in Class 2008, Bronze Medal 2006
Characteristics: A smooth all-malt strong New Zealand Pilsner with an enticing hop aroma of tropical fruits, styled to compliment authentic Indian cuisine. The perfect accompaniment to curry.
Color: Golden
IBU: 32
Hops: Pacific Gem, Cascade, Riwaka
Malt: Gladfield Lager, Caramalt
Yeast: House Lager
Alcohol: 5.2% by volume
Availability: Year round on tap and in 330ml bottles
Brewmaster’s Remarks: Judged New Zealand’s best classic styled beer.
History:
Like all Invercargill Brewery beers, B.man was made to drink – specifically, in this case, with with spicy food.
Approached by the owner of the Bombay Palace in Invercargill, Steve set about making a beer to suit – naming the final brew after the restaurant manager’s father – Biman (which is repeated in Sanskrit on the label.)
Using a blend of distinctive New Zealand hops, B.man (pronounced Bee-man) was among a growing list of classic New Zealand beers that fell outside the traditional pilsner classes.
Finally, in 2008 New Zealand Brewers Guild successfully petitioned the World Beer Cup for a new beer style that would encompass the new world flavours – and called it strong New Zealand style pilsner.
B.man finally won gold, and went on to win best in class – a great achievement.
In 2009, in an attempt to clarify pronunciation, the beer was rebranded, B.man.