Media Release

McLaren Vale Beer Company presents the next yellow decal – EXP/002

McLaren Vale Beer Company today releases its second batch of VALE/EXP, a 6% strong lager pouring from the signature (experimental) yellow decal in selected venues nationally.

Just in time for the warmer months, /002 strong lager will serve as a limited run, experimental offering, with the aim of shaping the beer company’s next summer release. With only one 35HL brew in circulation and much of it already under dibs due to the popularity of EXP/001 – a rich and creamy winter stout – beer lovers will need to keep their eyes peeled.

VALE/EXP is MVBeer’s abbreviation for VALE/EXPERIMENT. The idea was born from the many test brews that are conducted at the new Willunga brewery and their desire to share these creations with like-minded beer folk. These are not new finished products, rather they are experimental beers designed to satisfy the team’s appetite for extra-curricular brewing pleasure.

“As much as I would like to, we can’t be bringing out new SKUs all the time and so EXP becomes part of the exciting search for potential seasonals and the building of our portfolio for the future. EXP is not meant to be as sessionable as our core VALE range, but Jeff assures me it passes the three pint test!”, said General Manager Brand & Operations Josh Stuart.

“We have the benefit of great distribution now, allowing our EXP to get in the hands of consumers who wouldn’t normally frequent specialist craft beer venues. I like to think we’re pushing the boundaries without alienating anyone and that we’re offering something interesting yet accessible”, said Head Brewer Jeff Wright.

A warming 6% ABV is balanced by a sweet malt finish making this beer a great partner to the springtime evenings. The use of traditional Noble hops in the boil gives a subtle spicy and earthy character while the New Zealand Pacifica addition gives a complexity of marmalade and citrus that leaves you wanting more. A hefty addition of dry hopping allows this beer to finish smooth and with lasting flavours that coat the lining of your mouth well after the glass has finished.

“(EXP) 002 is our answer to the welcome end of winter. The vast majority of craft volume in Australia is pale ale and trying to get another style to work is challenging. This strong lager offers seasonal refreshment with plenty of flavour”, says Jeff.

A central part of the VALE/EXP ethos is experimentation, a concept that is invariably redundant without the presence of feedback and improvement. MVBeer wants their consumers to play an active role in the experimental process and offer constructive feedback on their efforts and even go so far as offer ideas for the next yellow decal experiment. Feedback will be welcomed through their social media channels.

Following resounding feedback from the limited release of EXP/001 – Foreign extra stout – MVBeer is working on plans to bring the stout out next winter under its own steam. Feedback was particularly strong in their home base of SA, where flavour seekers have relished the opportunity to drink seasonally. So far so good…

All VALE/EXP brews will be made in small, handcrafted quantities and only available on tap where you see the bright yellow decal and the signature black dots, so keep your eyes peeled for this delightful experiment… and the next one.

EXP/002 / STRONG LAGER / 6% ABV / 35 IBU.