Number two in the Critics’ Choice Top 100 is the Stone & Wood Pacific Ale. Last year’s number one beer has raised the bar for Australian beers, the essence of this original style lies somewhere in the heart of Byron Bay, and more and more Australians are taking some home.

The Brewer’s notes talk of being “inspired by our home on the edge of the Pacific Ocean and brewed using all Australian barley, wheat and Galaxy hops, Pacific Ale is cloudy and golden with a big fruity aroma and a refreshing finish.”

Brews News editor, Matt Kirkegaard, writes “there are plenty of ‘limited edition’ beers that seem to be easier to come by in bottle shops than this little gem. The critics have voted for the best beers in this book, but the beer drinking public have voted in bottleshops and pubs across the country.”

“Small brewer. Next-to-no marketing. Can’t keep it on the shelves. There is no finer accolade for a beer than that, the rest is just words.”

Select venues around the country will be launching the Critics’ Choice by featuring the top 12 beers on March 30.

The Critics’ Choice: Australia’s Best Beers
RRP $14.95
Available April 2
from newsagents & bookstores

www.beerloversguide.com.au