Three Sheets

"Put me in the longboat."

Australian pale ale usually has less of the strong floral and bitter flavours I enjoy in the style’s Indian and American cousins, and I initially thought Three Sheets would be more of the same. But this brew from Sydney is much more flavoursome than other examples I’ve tried and a hell of a lot more enjoyable.

It’s light on the bitterness but the finish is crisp and even, leaving you wanting more.

Would I buy it again?
Yes. I plan to have a session in the historic pub this brew hails from next time I’m in Sydney.

"Royal caramel."

As far as beers go, the Lord Nelson Pale Ale isn’t half bad; you would have to think they must be doing something right if they have been around since 1841.

It has some bitterness to it but definitely nothing overpowering especially as it’s offset quite nicely with the caramel and citrus undertones. I would describe this beer as well balanced.

It isn’t the cheapest but I can see why people would be willing to spend a little more to sip on this quality golden beer.

Would I buy it again?
When I’m next in Sydney I would love to give the Lord Nelson pub a visit but I don’t think I’ll be rushing out to get a 6 pack.

"Golden opportunity,"

Poured a clear, golden amber colour with a relatively short white head, I must admit, I was hoping for more when it came to the aroma, which was a little off-putting if I’m honest. Thankfully though, the fairly restrained bitterness and light but delicious hop flavour made up for my initial disappointment.

The malty dry finish made it a really sessionable ale worthy of a visit to the Lord Nelson hotel itself. Either that or a six pack at the beach, in a park or anywhere on a summer’s eve really.

Would I buy it again?
I would, but I reckon I’d prefer it on tap at the Lord Nelson.

“Hard going.”

I don’t understand this seemingly-sudden fascination with pale ales. Who wants to drink beer that leaves you feeling like you’ve sucked on a liquorice root? (Dirty hipsters who want to look like they are deep and meaningful – that’s who...)

But I won’t take my dislike for pale ale and hipsters out on this offering from Lord Nelson, which had great colouring and texture, and it smelled great (quite nutty, really), but it seemed almost flat (there wasn’t a lot of head, even though I deliberately poured badly to try and elicit some frothy goodness) and the flavour was very overpowering (especially for someone who likes lighter flavours).

Would I buy it again?
Nah