And then there were four …
Invercargill Brewery is celebrating winter with the simultaneous release of four vintages of Smokin’ Bishop.
When released in 2007 the distinctive manuka bock was the first commercially available smoked beer in New Zealand, it gained accolades locally for innovation locally and internationally for its unique Kiwi flavour.
Brewer Steve Nally said he’d aimed to make brews for fellow “beer geeks” to share, hence the strong flavour and higher alcohol content, to broaden discussions about beer.
“This was our first seasonal product and we’d promised this was a beer that would age beautifully. By winter’s end every drop had been drunk and I realized that would forever be a dry argument unless we took action ourselves.“The next year we hid 600 litres from the sales, and again the following year. Actually that’s one of the hardest things I’ve done in the brewing business,” Mr Nally said.
Thanks to such brew house cunning last year the brewery delivered on that early promise – with a limited edition release of earlier vintages. This year 2008, 2009 and 2011 vintage bottles will be released along with 2012.
Always big flavoured, Smokin’ Bishop has been described as bacon in a glass – and it’s certainly not for everyone. However the balance of sweet and smoke has drawn it many fans amongst those who appreciate a good single malt whisky.
Vertical tastings are a chance to see how a vintage matures. So, what has happened with Smokin’ Bishop?
Each distinctive Manuka Smoked Bock is recognizably Smokin’ Bishop but there are batch and vintage variations – and there have been slight changes to the recipe each year – giving each its own identity.
“For most fun, I recommend starting at the most recent and working back, and using a palate cleanser like cider between beers so you can give them your full, and fresh attention because smoke is one of those flavors you quickly become accustomed to,” Nally said.
Reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s finest brews, Smokin’ Bishop was one of 15 New Zealand beers profiled in 1001 Beers You Must Drink Before You Die.
Beer Facts
2012 Smokin’ Bishop
Our tasting:
The use of applewood augmenting the Manuka smoke has delivered a slightly floral note whisky note.
IBU:
21
Yeast:
House lager
Malt:
Gladfield (NZ) lager, Manuka smoked (in-house), Applewood smoked (in-house)
Hops:
Pacific Jade
ABV:
7 percent
Availability:
Winter Seasonal, kegs and 330ml long-neck
2008-2011 Vintage Bishops
IBU:
21
Yeast:
House lager
Malt:
Gladfield (NZ) lager, Manuka smoked (Bowmonts), Peat smoked
Hops:
Pacific Gem, Riwaka
ABV:
7 percent
Availability:
Extremely limited edition (2009) 640ml long-neck (2008, 2011) 330ml long-neck
Our Tasting:
Vintage Bishop 2011:
A sweet start with a hint of bitter at the end.
Vintage Bishop 2009: Very similar in flavor and colour to 2011 but more caramel gives this a sweeter flavor.
Vintage Bishop 2008: Wow. A completely balanced beer, we found hard to pull apart in tasting.