The Sip #58 - Nomad Jet Lag IPA
Long-time beer drinker and The Sip editor Ross Lewis puts some of Australia's top drops to the test.
Catch up with other beers on The Sip Archive
Fortunately, the label says more about the background of the brewer than what might happen to the consumer.
A lot of beer drinkers who over-indulge have compared their hangover to the effects on the body from long-haul plane travel.
But smart brew lovers know the true enjoyment of a tipple is based on quality not the quantity.
Sydney’s Nomad Brewing provides another example.
Six months since their launch Nomad has quickly established a place on the top shelf of the Australian good beer industry.
It is hardly surprising. While the operation might be new, the brains trust is wise and experienced.
Leonardo di Vicenzo is the founder of Italian giants Birra Del Borgo. During a visit to Australia he was enticed to put his energy into a local brewhouse.
Di Vicenzo helped teach Brooks Caretta the tricks of the trade. And Caretta had been exposed to brewing in Italy and the US so he became the ideal man for the Nomad job – after all he had lived the life of a constant traveller as he studied the craft.
The Nomad theme carries on through their products. There is the Lost in Dubai (Belgian Pale Ale), the Road Trip (Aussie Ale), the Long Trip (Spiced Saison) and the Jet Lag (Special India Pale Ale).
The Sip was fortunate to spot the latter at Mane Liquor and was very keen to travel with the Nomad.
Our nostrils were quickly stimulated by the pine and dash of toast. It is so appealing the mouth waters in anticipation of the taste.
And the tongue is far from disappointed. The Victoria’s Secret hops provide a great zesty feeling with a bowl full of fruit battling for prominence on the buds.
Lime, lemon, grapefruit even some pineapple entertain the drinker. There is also some spice near the back end. Yet Jet Lag, like those affected by a long plane journey, finishes dry with a fair amount of bitterness.
But forget reading too much into the label. Jet Lag travels well and its arrival into more Australian ports will be welcomed by the locals.
The Sip Snip
Jet Lag IPA
Brewer: Nomad Brewing
Style: Special Indian Pale Ale
Alcohol content: 6%
Standard drinks: 2
Bitterness: 55IBU
Bottles: 330ml
Estimated calories: 186
The Sip Tip (rating): For impressing your mates.
Average prices: $5 a bottle.
