Chris Shanahan: Beer review — Brunehaut and Orkney

Brunehaut Blanche Biere Biologique 330ml $9.50
There’s an appealing light, lemony freshness to Brunehaut bottle-fermented organic Belgian wheat ale – a style based on delicacy, subtle flavour (including a light dusting of spice) and refreshing acidity rather than hops bitterness. Its lightness belies its full five per cent alcohol content. This is a beautifully balanced, complex brew.

Orkney Raven Ale 500ml $9.50
From Orkney, Scotland, Raven is a full flavoured, pale-amber coloured ale weighing in at a modest 3.8 per cent alcohol. The aroma reveals rich malt, seasoned with pungent hops – a combination that carries through on the creamy-textured, complex palate. The finish is dry, with a lingering, harmonious hops bitterness.