Kona Brewing Company, located in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii's Big Island, is known for its diverse range of craft beers. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing and tasting many of their offerings. Let me take you on a journey through the beers that Kona Brewing Company brews.
1. Longboard Island Lager: This is Kona Brewing Company's flagship beer, a smooth and refreshing lager that pays homage to the laid-back lifestyle of the Hawaiian islands. It has a clean, crisp taste with a hint of tropical fruit and a subtle malt backbone. The Longboard Island Lager is perfect for those hot summer days or any time you want to relax and unwind.
2. Big Wave Golden Ale: As the name suggests, Big Wave Golden Ale is a wave of tropical flavors in a glass. It is a light-bodied ale with a bright, golden color and a smooth, malty sweetness. It features notes of passion fruit, citrus, and a touch of pine, reminiscent of the beautiful Hawaiian landscapes. This beer is perfect for those who prefer a lighter and fruitier option.
3. Fire Rock Pale Ale: If you're a fan of hoppy beers, Fire Rock Pale Ale is a must-try. It is a copper-colored ale with a bold hop aroma and a balanced malt backbone. The hop flavors are citrusy and floral, with a slightly bitter finish. This beer is a great choice for those looking for a more robust and flavorful brew.
4. Kua Bay IPA: For the hop enthusiasts out there, Kua Bay IPA is a beer that will delight your taste buds. It is a West Coast-style IPA with a bold hop profile and a strong malt backbone. This beer is bursting with tropical fruit flavors, such as mango and pineapple, and has a lingering, resinous bitterness. It's a beer that truly showcases the flavors of the Hawaiian islands.
5. Hanalei Island IPA: Inspired by the lush beauty of Hanalei Bay in Hawaii, this IPA is a tropical paradise in a glass. It is brewed with passion fruit, orange, and guava, giving it a delightful fruity aroma and a juicy, tropical flavor. Hanalei Island IPA is a refreshing and vibrant beer that captures the essence of the Hawaiian islands.
Aside from these core beers, Kona Brewing Company also offers a variety of limited edition and seasonal brews throughout the year. These beers often showcase unique ingredients and flavors, such as coconut, coffee, or local Hawaiian fruits. It's always exciting to see what new creations they come up with.
In addition to their craft beers, Kona Brewing Company also offers a range of non-alcoholic beverages, including their own line of handcrafted sodas. This allows non-beer drinkers to still enjoy the Kona Brewing Company experience and taste the flavors of Hawaii.
Kona Brewing Company is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in brewing. Their beers capture the essence of the Hawaiian islands, with flavors that transport you to the beautiful shores of Kailua-Kona. Whether you're a fan of lagers, ales, IPAs, or looking for something unique, Kona Brewing Company has a beer to suit every palate.