The Sip #27 - Kronenbourg Blanc
Long-time beer drinker Ross Lewis puts some of Australia's top drops to the test.
Catch up with other beers on The Sip Archive
It is 350 years in the making. And it has taken 10 years to get to Australia. But one of France’s leading drinks is set to make an impact across the country.
Coopers Brewery in South Australia is leading the push to have the Kronenbourg brand become a more regular feature in pubs and bottle shops.
However, it isn’t the 1664 Lager, which Australians have enjoyed on trips to Euorpe, that is leading the Kronenbourg charge.
The brewery’s Blanc beer, available in 32 countries, has been introduced by Coopers Premium with a slightly different bottle than what holds the drop in other parts of the globe.
A light blue vessel with a handy middle indent for holding will catch the eye of undecided drinkers when they open the takeaway fridges.
This year is Kronenbourg’s 350th anniversary. But the Blanc has only been on the production line since 2004.
It is also a big change from the 1664 Lager.
Kronenbourg Blanc is a witbier and naturally features a great head that protects the brew underneath.
The first element that strikes the drinker is its peachy aroma. There is a touch of citrus and mild spices and the unmistakable flavour of a Wheat beer.
While it is mass manufactured there is strong feel of care in this brew. It is very well balanced, has some apricot early in the taste but remains very smooth in the mouthfeel.
Craft beer consumers might not automatically desire this drink. That would be a mistake because it carries plenty of flavour.
The Sip Snip
Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc
Brewer: Kronenbourg through Coopers Australia
Style: Witbier
Alcohol content: 5%
Standard drinks: 1.3
Bitterness: 10 IBU
Bottles: 330ml bottle
Estimated calories: 155
The Sip Tip (rating): Always keep one in the fridge.
Average prices: $19 (six-pack)
