Beer Tasting 52: Steinlager from New Zealand

What do people associate New Zealand with? I immediately think of their mighty rugby team (and their Maouri dance). What do people associate New Zealand with when it comes to a good drink? Most people would think of their Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and perhaps even Riesling and Merlot. Little would people imagine New Zealand would brew such a beautiful pilsner style lager. The Steinlager to me is the Prince of beer if I call Pilsner Urquell Emperor of all beers and Budvar King of all beers...OK just because some commercial ads try to brain wash the public calling their ugly 'Butt' King of all beers...This straw colour beer when poured has a healthy head indicating good carbonation. The nose has a profound flowery and biscuity aroma. Dry, biscuity, grainy, astringent bitterness gradually popped out upon tasting. This soft body beer was more backward than Pilsner Urquell but the sharp bitterness gradually revealed itself in the mouth with a hint of subtle sweetness. This flowery biterness beautifully intermixes with the biscuity malt to create good depth and complexity. The finish is long with positive astringent bitterness. Wow! The All Blacks has just scored another try and had it converted with ease!!! (Rating 91-93 points) by Michael Lam of the Beverage Review.