BREWERY // Alibi is the sister of Waiheke Island's Tantalus vineyard and is a strong contender for most photogenically located brewery in NZ. Head brewer Bernard had a background in wine before he started work at Auckland's now defunct Governor Brewery. He fell in love with the creative possibilities of brewing and leapt at the chance to launch Alibi's small but perfectly formed brewery in 2017. As a small brewery on faraway Waiheke Island, it's always a special treat to spot Alibi beers out in the wild. Their canning line recently came on line so that means we'll be seeing a little more of their beer around Aotearoa. The brewery bar - Brewer's Lounge - is a must visit but is currently closed. We're hoping it will re-open soon as we head into better weather.
BEER // Porter was a cat. A large, wild cat who lived at Alibi before the brewery existed and made himself at home with the new residents. So it was only natural that Alibi's first Porter would be named in his honour. Porter (the drink) is named for the porters who played an essential part of London's economy from the 1600s into the early 1900s transporting, well, everything. Their jobs were varied but equivalent to modern van drivers, motorcycle couriers and postmen. Portering was physical work and those men needed fuel. It is estimated that eighteenth century porters got 2,000 calories per day from beer which they would consume while taking a break outside a pub, many of which had special tables where they could relieve their loads for a few minutes. Black Cat is a modern take on the strong, refreshing 'Stout Porters' of London made with oats for a full body and super dark crystal which gives a touch of sweetness. The American hops add a depth of bitterness which compliments the bitter roasty notes as well as giving the beer a slightly piney and earthy character.
BREWERY // Alibi
BEER // Black Cat
STYLE // Porter
ORIGIN // Waiheke Island
ABV // 6%
TEMPERATURE // Cellar Temp - around 10-13C. About an hour out of the fridge
FOOD MATCH // Welsh Rarebit, Cajun Chicken, Chocolate Brownies
VESSEL // Dimpled Mug