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An India Pale Ale will be released at the Kowhai Festival garden bar on the Big Day Out.
The beer is based on a pale ale from Isthmus Brewery in Silverdale, combined with a “manuka essence” developed by Te Rata Free Range Wines in Matakana. Co-owner of Te Rata Free Range Wines Justin Oliver says the brew has a certain kick to it.
“The last couple of festivals we have sold a lager called Kowhai Gold, but this year’s special will be a lot more hoppy and have a stronger flavour,” he says.
“I did look at using the kowhai flower to infuse with the beer, but it leaves a bad taste for smokers so I decided against it.”
In addition, the bar will sell a pilsner, cider and a range of sodas and wines.
“We will be selling a Sauvignon Blanc for the first time. It undergoes the fermentation process in the bottle, a really popular wine-making technique overseas.”
Japanese dumplings and oyster fritters will be available to eat in the bar area. People are welcome to bring in food from other stalls.
Justin has been making wine for 25 years and has managed the garden bar with his wife, Cynthia, for the past three years.
Cynthia grew up in California where her family has grown grapes since the 1800s and before that in Italy.
The garden bar by the Mahurangi River, next to the main stage, will be open from 10.30am to 5pm. It is restricted to those 18 and older.
