Taste the difference
25/08/2010 4:43:00 p.m.
Cash-strapped backpacker Martin Baptiste says New Zealand craft beers can’t be beaten.
“Cheaper alternatives just don’t do it, you really can taste the difference,” he says.
Baptiste tried his first New Zealand craft beer when he arrived in the Capital in March, and since then he has continued to choose craft beers over cheaper alternatives.
“As a traveller I always try to find a local brewery to try local beers. Craft beers have a nice refined taste. Sometimes you have to spend a little more to get a good beer. I like the idea that someone has taken the time to refine a beer. I appreciate the personal touch craft beers provide,” he says
Baptiste is fed up with supporting global, conglomerate beer brands that dominate the market.
“I like the little guy. Every craft beer began as one man’s dream. The quality of New Zealand craft beer is a reflection on the country. It’s about having a vision. Craft brewers take their time and it adds a touch of class to the drink.
“It took me a little time to get used to New Zealand craft beers but they’ve grown on me its definitely something I am going to remember when I go home and think of my time here,” he says.
Capital Times beer expert Kieran Haslett-Moore is not surprised visitors are embracing New Zealand craft beers- including those travelling on a budget.
“As with any alcohol once you get a taste for quality it’s hard going back to the mainstream. Beer and wines are created for flavour. New Zealand craft beers have seen a massive increase in consumption. There has been a huge broadening of the demographic.
He says it used to be affluent middle-aged men who drank craft beers, but now women of all ages and students are among the biggest consumers.
