When you think of Tasmanian beers, it's hard to go past James Boag's Premium Lager out of Launceston or Hobart's Cascade Lager. But dig a little deeper and there is a vibrant, fiercely independent craft brewing scene, from pioneers Moo Brew to Fox Friday, which briefly had a taproom in Burswood, to farm-based brewers such as Van Dieman Brewing.
Then there's Spotty Dog, named for the owner's two dalmatians, which began in 2015 as a 'gypsy brewer' using established facilities to brew their beers before finding a permanent home in Hobart in 2023. It is just 10 minutes from MONA, Hobart's quirky Museum of Old and New Art that hosts the annual Dark Mofo and has seen the city compared to Portland in the US, with its 'Keep Portland weird' mantra that promotes local art and expressionism.
Spotty Dog's Portland Pale Ale is a tribute to both cities, a West Coast pale ale bursting with Mosaic, Centennial and Australia Eclipse hops. When you crack the tinnie, those big juicy flavours are right up front, with ripe tropical fruit aromas, citrus zest and grapefruit, and just a hint of earthy pine resin.
It pours a dark golden straw colour, almost burnt orange, with frothy off-white head that dissipates gradually. When you take a sip, those juicy flavours are prominent, including bright citrus notes and hints of pear, with a light malt profile balancing the taste. There's an early hint of bitterness that's never overpowering before coming to a clean finish.
With an ABV of 5 per cent, it's an easy drinking, sessionable beer. $7.50 each or $22 for a four-pack.
