“The King is dead! Long live the King!”

After holding the number one spot in the first two Hot 100 lists at The Local Taphouse and in the hearts of many drinkers, Little Creatures has fallen. All the way to number two.

To put this into some sort of context, consider that 448 different beers were nominated for The Critics’ Choice book. To get a spot in the Top 100 is an achievement in itself, a gong in the top 10 magnificent. To be one of the two ‘favourite’ beers as selected by both the average punter and the beer experts needs a new descriptor.

So what does Little Creatures Pale Ale have that keeps it in the hearts and minds of drinkers far and wide. For many I suspect is as simple as this – it was the first brew to introduce the American Pale Ale style to the masses in a sessionable form. Back in 2000 when LCPA launched, beer lovers everywhere were knocked out by the punchy hops and deep golden colour beneath a tight off-white head sitting in a glass before them. Just as important is the fact that it has done little to change people’s minds since then.

Consistently producing a well crafted and readily available brew has ensured market share. Producing a beer that has probably brought more people over to the wonderful world of craft beer than any other has ensured its popularity with both punter and expert alike.

Described by Brews News editor and Critics’ Choice contributor Matt Kirkegaard as “going on to become the flag bearer for Australian craft beer (after its launch) … a modern classic with aroma, malt, bitterness and body all in good measure.”

Want to try the best of the Critics’ Choice beers, including a rare out-of-brewery appearance of Knappstein’s Reserve Lager on tap? The Local Taphouse will be tapping the top ten at midday on 1 April at both venues. Apart from trying some great beers, you could win a copy of this terrific new book.

The Critics’ Choice: Australia’s Best Beers
RRP $14.95
Available from bookstores & newsagents from April 1, 2011

www.beerloversguide.com.au

We’re giving readers a chance to win one of four copies of The Critics Choice: Australia’s Best Beers. Just tell us in the comments below which beer you think should be the choice for Australia’s best beer. Winners will be chosen at random from the comments.