With the advent of Summer, we’re bringing you a line-up of drink-related matters that will keep you cool this season. Part One of our "On the lash" series (our quest for booze) begins with Beerfest Asia 2012 this weekend (June 7 - 10, 2012).

Here are some of the beers featured at Beerfest that will quench our need for beer head.
 

BEERFEST HIGHLIGHTS AND EXCLUSIVES

Archipelago Sake Sorachi

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 4.6%

• Origin: Singapore

Home-grown beer Archipelago will be launching its new Limited Edition beer, Archipelago Sake Sorachi, at Beerfest Asia this year. This brew takes inspiration from Japanese sake and uses a primary fermentation technique using sake yeast sourced directly from Japan. The unique floral and fruity esters, combined with Sorachi Ace Hops, create an amalgamation of tropical fruit aromas. The resulting palate is soft and velvety, with a hint of tartness.


Carlsberg Elephant Beer

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 7.2%

• Origin: Denmark

We know the brand and we enjoy being “part of the game”, but if you’re headed to Beerfest, we doubt you’ll be sticking to your usual. The Carlsberg Elephant is a true Carlsberg classic that ironically isn’t available at your local pub. With its elevated alcohol content, it offers drinkers a unique (and manly) taste receptor experience. Its light golden amber colour and ocean-foam white head combined with a rich flavour that is associated to the malt, gives it that added character.
 
The Carlsberg Elephant was awarded 3 stars in the prestigious Superior Taste Awards 2006 from the International Taste & Quality Institute (iTQi) in Brussels.


Erdinger

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.3%

• Origin: Erding, Germany

Riding on their success at the recent Maifest, where they brought in the exclusive Pikantus, Erdinger is once again making an appearance at this year’s Beerfest. The two on draught are the Erdinger White and Dark. The fresh malty taste that is typically associated with Erdinger is due to its special bottle-fermentation, which means it completes the final stage of its maturation in the bottle rather than in tanks, before it is bottled.


Gorkha Beer

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.5%

• Origin: Nepal

If you want a taste of Nepal, grab a pint of Gorkha. An authentic brew from the Himalayas, it is made according to traditional Nepalese methods using the finest ingredients. Its crisp taste and quality has made this a favourite of tourists to the region.
 

Staropramen

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 4.4%

• Origin: Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is typically known for one thing – producing models. But informed individuals know it to be the place for beer. Staropramen Lager is the number one Prague beer in the world. The rich hop aroma is distinctively Czech and the soft malt flavour and gentle bitter finish contribute to a balanced and full-bodied Bohemian Pilsner.


Wind, Flower, Snow and Moon

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 4%

• Origin: China

With a name like that, you’re probably envisioning old Chinese movies with deities and pugilists frolicking in the mountains or something along those lines. Well, you got the Chinese and mountain part right, at least. The source of the water for the brew comes from snow mountain tops in Dali, Yunnan. This pure mountain water gives the pilsner its distinctive refreshing taste. Not only is Wind, Flower, Snow and Moon made from pure water, it is also produced 4100m above sea level – literally taking this beer to new heights.
 

LIGHTER OPTIONS

Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 5.0%

• Origin: Brasseries Kronenbourg, France

If you’re looking to chill at Beerfest rather than having a beer-sloshing time, you’ll probably be looking at the lighter alternatives (lighter doesn’t necessarily mean <1% ABV). A specialty white beer that is less bitter and more refreshing, the Blanc 1664 is crisp and easy to drink. For people who do not have a strong penchant for beer, Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc is the ideal choice.


Somersby Apple Cider

• Alcohol by volume (ABV): 4.7%

• Origin: Sweden

On a hot summer’s day (which means every day of the week in Singapore) and on days that you want something lighter than beer, a refreshing glass of cider is the perfect alternative. Somersby Apple Cider is light, fruity and refreshing, suitable for pairing with most types of food. Don’t be fooled by its cider-status though, at 4.7%, the ABV content is comparable to that of several beers. Even if you aren’t into ciders, this might be the perfect drink for your companion by the Marina Promenade.
 
Somersby ciders also come in Pear and Blackberry.


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ZONE IN

Two areas at Beerfest we suggest you check out

Carlsberg Cage

With a long list of brands in its portfolio, the Carlsberg Cage is definitely something you should check out at the fest. It will be showcasing favourites like Carlsberg, Kronenbourg 1664, Somersby Apple Cider,as well as lesser known brands, such as Pripps from Sweden, Super Bock from Portugal and Gorkha from Nepal. Also, check out the selections from Russia, UK, China, Vietnam, Malaysia and Laos.


Beerport Booth

The Beerport Booth, situated in the Rock tentage is another area you should explore. Beers on draught here include the usual Tiger, Heineken, Guinness, Kilkenny, and the entire range of Archipelago craft beers and Erdinger Dark/White. We hear a bundle of six draught beers will cost you a mere $25, so, it’s definitely a must-go.