Panhead Pep Torque Watermelon Sour Ale

From NZ’s Panhead comes this zesty fruited ale made using the ‘kettle souring’ method; whereby the beer is soured using lactic acid bacteria before undergoing its main fermentation. You’ll never get complexity using this contemporary method, which is a quicker way of making a sour beer than the time-honoured practices of the Belgians. What it does deliver though, is crowd-pleasing refreshment. It pours a somewhat unusual red hue, reminiscent of a 70s brick home facade. There’s aromas of bright, freshly cut watermelon and a bit of cucumber, with a light creaminess on the palate from the lactic souring. I’d like a bit more of a tangy acid kick on the finish; but it’s still a great example of the style with which to tempt cider drinkers at your next Summer barbecue. Grab a case here.

James Atkinson

James Atkinson is creator of the Drinks Adventures podcast and a previous editor of Australian Brews News and drinks industry publication TheShout. A Certified Cicerone® and 2017 winner of the Australian International Beer Awards media prize, James regularly contributes to publications including Halliday, Good Food, QantasLink Spirit and more. Check out Australia’s leading drinks podcast Drinks Adventures.