High Country Pale Ale Recipe

High Country Pale Ale Recipe

Description:

The High Country Pale Ale Recipe is a truly distinctive Australian brew, capturing the essence of the rugged and scenic highlands where it was first enjoyed. This refreshing Pale Ale boasts fruity hop overlays, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned ‘tin kit’ brewers eager to delve into the world of hops and wet malts. The inspiration for this recipe stems from an unforgettable tasting experience amidst the snow gums on Mt Stirling, with panoramic views of the Mansfield district. This unique setting imbues the beer with a sense of place, connecting each sip to the breathtaking landscapes of the high country.

Ingredients for High Country Pale Ale Recipe:

This recipe is available as an Aussie Brewmakers Recipe Kit, order no. 19830

Crafted by Aussie Brewmakers, the High Country Pale Ale is a modern take on the classic Australian Pale Ale, featuring a balanced blend of malts and hops. It’s an excellent introduction to experimenting with different hop profiles and wet malts, providing a robust and flavorful brewing experience.

 

Supplied Kit Ingredients:

• 1 x 1.7kg Coopers Australian Pale Ale Beer Kit
• 1 x 1.5kg Coopers Light Malt Extract
• 200g Dextrose
• 1 x 15g Premium Ale Yeast
• 1 x 12g Cascade Finishing Hops (steeped)
• 1 x 15g Amarillo Finishing Hops (dry hopped)

Other Ingredients:

• 200g of Dextrose if kegging with no secondary fermentation (not supplied)

Method: 

1. Clean / sterilize all equipment including fermenter, paddle, mug and jug (used for steeping)
2. Discard Coopers Beer Kit tin yeast and sit beer tin along with the malt tin in hot water for 10 minutes
3. Boil 2.25L of water in kettle
4. Steep 12g of Cascade Finishing Hops in 250ml mug of boiled water for 10 minutes
5. Add 1.5L of boiled water to fermenter
6. Add Coopers Light Malt Extract tin along with 200g Dextrose to fermenter and stir to thoroughly dissolve
7. Pour 250ml of boiled water into Coopers Light Malt Extract tin and stir to dissolve remaining contents, then add to fermenter
8. Add Coopers Australian Pale Ale tin to fermenter and stir thoroughly to dissolve
9. Pour 250ml of boiled water into Coopers Australian Pale Ale tin and stir to dissolve remaining contents, then add to fermenter
10. Add cold water to fermenter to 22.5 ltrs and test temperature – make sure it is between 18-24 degrees before pitching yeast
11. Take initial hydrometer reading
12. Add Cascade Finishing Hops bag and steeped water to fermenter
13. Pitch 15g Premium Ale Yeast and stir gently
14. On day 2 or 3 of ferment add Amarillo Finishing Hops teabag to fermenter and gently stir in with sterilized paddle (dry hop)
15. When fermentation is finished check with hydrometer and bottle as per normal.

N.B. If kegging, add 200g of Dextrose at step 6

Enjoying High Country Pale Ale Recipe

High Country Pale Ale Recipe is more than just a beer; it’s an experience that brings the essence of the Australian high country to your glass. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a beginner, there are numerous ways to enhance your enjoyment of this refreshing brew.

Optimal Serving Conditions:

To fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of High Country Pale Ale, it is best served at a temperature between 7-10°C (45-50°F). This slightly cooler than cellar temperature allows the fruity hop notes to shine while maintaining the beer’s crisp and refreshing qualities. Pour the beer into a clean, tulip-shaped glass to capture and concentrate its aromatic bouquet. The wide bowl and narrow rim help enhance the hop aromas, while the glass’s shape supports a generous head, adding to the visual appeal.

Sensory Experience:

Take a moment to admire the beer’s golden amber hue, highlighted by a frothy white head. Swirl the glass gently to release the hop aromas, bringing forth hints of citrus, tropical fruits, and floral notes. On the palate, the beer offers a harmonious blend of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, creating a balanced and satisfying experience. The finish is clean and crisp, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing afternoon or a social gathering with friends.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

High Country Pale Ale’s versatile flavor profile makes it an excellent companion for a wide range of dishes. Here are some pairing suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

1. Grilled Meats:
   • The beer’s fruity hop character complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats such as steak, lamb chops, and sausages. Try pairing it with a char-grilled ribeye steak, seasoned with a simple salt and pepper rub. The hops cut through the richness of the meat, while the malt backbone balances the savory flavors.
2. Spicy Dishes:
   • The crisp, refreshing nature of High Country Pale Ale is perfect for balancing the heat in spicy dishes. Pair it with spicy chicken wings, Thai curry, or a plate of nachos loaded with jalapeños and salsa. The beer’s bitterness helps to cleanse the palate, while its fruity notes complement the spice.
3. Seafood:
   • The light and refreshing qualities of this Pale Ale make it a great match for seafood. Enjoy it with grilled prawns, fish tacos, or a seafood paella. The citrusy hop flavors enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood, creating a delightful combination.
4. Cheese:
   • Pairing beer with cheese can be a revelation. High Country Pale Ale works wonderfully with a variety of cheeses, from a sharp cheddar to a creamy brie. The beer’s hop bitterness balances the richness of the cheese, while its malt sweetness complements the creamy textures.
5. Light Salads:
   • For a lighter meal, pair the Pale Ale with a citrus-dressed salad or a classic Caesar salad. The beer’s crisp finish and fruity notes complement the fresh, tangy flavors of the salad, making for a refreshing and satisfying pairing.

Social Settings:

High Country Pale Ale is perfect for social gatherings, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a casual dinner party, or a picnic in the park. Its approachable flavor profile appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a crowd-pleaser. Share a few bottles with friends and family, and enjoy the lively conversation that naturally follows. The beer’s connection to the high country can also serve as a great conversation starter, adding a touch of adventure and story to your gathering.

By pairing High Country Pale Ale with the right foods and enjoying it in the optimal setting, you can elevate your beer-drinking experience to new heights. Cheers to the High Country Pale Ale – a beer that brings the beauty and flavor of Australia’s highlands to your glass.