STYLE AND CONTENT - IN EQUAL MEASURE?
Flying in the face of tradition...
During the 1980s and early 90s there was an expression in the wine world which almost resembled a catchphrase to describe a new sense of dynamism within the industry - the 'Flying Winemaker'.
Young guns such as Hugh Ryman were transforming the dull earthy flavours of Southern France, and Peter Bright was performing flavour miracles within Portugal, attempting to remove the 'rustic' and leaving more 'charm' in their alcoholic bruisers!
Ironically the counter argument to their work was that while they were bringing New World flavours to such regions, they were also eroding centuries of stylistic tradition - after all there was a ready sale for these wines already - did they need their attention or reforming skills?
It was a case of for better or worse, depending on your viewpoint. Ultimately the consumer would decide with their purse, and Internationally, New World flavours held greater appeal, and the Air Miles started to clock up!
I was intrigued recently then when I came across a new beer from Sweden that was made by 'Flying Beermaker' Jessica Heidrich - St. Eriks India Pale Ale. Here was something a little unusual...
What struck me at first was the packaging which incorporated an original embossed bell bottle shape...with echoes of Dom Perignon or 'Grande Marque' Champagne perhaps - my expectations were rising!
The simple but stylish wrap around label too had an air of tradition about it which intrigued, and although information was sparse the use of Centennial and Amarillo hops inferred a US leaning in terms of style. Things indeed looked promising, and all would be revealed on opening!