Beers of Auckland Advent Calendar 2014
DAY 24 – Funkonnay by Hallertau
BOTTLE: 
Funkonnay
BREWED: The Beer Fountain
ABV: 6.7%
IBU: 18
I wanted to finish with something special for the Advent Calendar. Steve (Hallertau) was kind enough to give me the 2012 and 2013 Funkonnay for today. Earlier in the year I had the privilege to try the 2012 Funkonnay on tap at the Malthouse thanks to Colin keeping a keg, in his secret cellar. It was amazing. One of the best beers experiences I’ve even had in New Zealand. Colin is one of the best publicans in New Zealand, not just because he keeps back the special stuff, but because he knows what his customers want, and delivers awesomeness on a regular basis.
I’m not sure how this beer changes in the bottle over time but the 2012 has more condition, ie CO2, and acid, than 2013, which means sourness. The 2013 is easier to drink. The only thing I can say from this is that both of these beers are very good, and possibly the best sour beers I’ve had in New Zealand. I would like someone to put a better sour beer made in New Zealand, in front of me.
I believe I have drunk some of the best sour beers in the world. Brussels, Santa Rosa, San Diego. All amazing. Hallertau are on par, world-class. Maybe not the most sour, but perfect for the market here. Steve Plowman is leading the way for New Zealand. If you can get a bottle of Funkonnay then get it. Drink it, cellar it.
The Beer Advent Calendar has been tough, partly because of the time of year, with time available, and what is happening within the Epic business. Busy also because it has been hard to get around all the Auckland breweries. I’m thinking that I’ll try to get that done over the coming weeks. It’ll be fun. There are beers and breweries I did’t get to try yet.
2015, I’d like to be fun for craft beer in Auckland. It has the most potential in New Zealand. The most new customers, the most potential bars. Craft Beer + Auckland = the biggest win for beer in New Zealand in 2015.
Merry Christmas!
Happy New Year!!
See you in 2015…..