Launched at the beginning of 2013, Weird Beard Brew Co. operates from a site near Ealing and produces a number of hop-driven beers alongside classic styles. With the aim to “satisfy, enthuse and be enjoyed by whoever the drinker,” Weird Beard offer a number of core beers as well as some occasional specials and one-off brews that push creative boundaries. Beginning life as South Seas pale ale, Mariana Trench – ‘A Transpacific Pale Ale’ – was initially brewed with Pacific Gem and Nelson Sauvin hops from New Zealand. But following the explosion in popularity surrounding Nelson Sauvin, Weird Beard became unable to source sufficient quantities and have thus switched to combining Pacific Gem with American Citra hops.
On pour, Mariana Trench is golden and clear, crowned with a thin white head, plus plenty of visible effervescence. On the nose, upfront tropical fruit aromas of mango, passion-fruit and pineapple are joined by gooseberry, grapefruit rind and some underlying funky, dank notes. In addition, traces of light biscuit malt are also noticeable, continuing on the palate. With a fair deal of citrus juice flavour, Mariana Trench is medium-bodied and sophisticatedly complex, harbouring an initial sweetness that develops into a refreshing bitterness with a touch of sourness. This finishes with a very clean mouth feel and slight lingering bitterness complete with some delicate floral notes.
Further information on Weird Beard Brewing Co. can be found here.
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