Blacks KPA
Blacks of Kinsale is a small brewery started up by husband-and-wife team Sam and Maudeline Black after Maudeline gave Sam a beer-making kit one Valentine’s Day. A hobby soon developed into an obsession and Kinsale Craft Brewery was born in 2013 in an effort to escape the mundane mass market beers currently available. Aside from this month’s featured beer, the Kinsale Pale Ale (KPA), the brewery also produce a Black IPA, a red ale and a stout.
What does it taste like?
With its fusion of cascade and citra hops, the KPA is certainly not lacking in any personality. Despite having a relatively modest 5% ABV, this golden ale is full of bitter, hoppy flavours that mellow out to a long finish. The hops are balanced with a subtle malt sweetness as well as some fruity citrus notes. Despite its flavour profile, this KPA is surprisingly easy to drink and ideal for someone who likes a beer that packs a punch without the hefty alcohol content that so often comes with it.
What to have it with?
Sam and Maudeline Black are all for experimenting with this beer, but they also suggest pairing this Kinsale Pale Ale with seafood such as shrimp and crab as well as barbecued meats to enchance the caramel tones of the beer. However, given the autumn and winter months are closing in, it might be best to try this KPA with the more classical match of spicy Thai or Indian food such as the curries on page 57-59.
Where to get it?
Available at good independent off-licences nationwide with an RRP of €3.50.
