Founded in 2017, the Hawkesbury Brewery, located on the outskirts of Sydney, has been honing its craft beer brewing expertise for a few years now, and have launched an NA brew, the Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale. They’ve gained attention for their stylish designs and clever branding, and let’s face it, Prohibition is a pretty good name for a non-alcoholic beer. It works on at least one level, especially when you think about the association with rebellion and breaking away from tradition.
So, what does their non-alcoholic pale ale bring to the table?
Let’s find out.
Appearance
The Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale presents a lovely golden hue, with hints of washed-out lemon that gives it a bright and inviting look. The colour combination is subtle yet pleasing, striking a balance between gold and a light, almost pastel yellow. The head is frothy, with a crown that lingers nicely on top of the beer. While it’s not as crystal clear as some of the alcoholic counterparts in the pale ale category, it doesn’t detract from the overall appeal. The slightly hazy appearance adds a rustic charm, which complements the brewery’s down-to-earth, craft-focused vibe. All in all, it’s a very pleasant-looking glass of beer, with enough character to draw you in.
Aroma
The first thing that hits your nose is the citrus. Zesty, tangy, and pretty potent, it immediately gets your senses tingling. It’s more about the zest than the juice, creating a sharp, refreshing fragrance. If you give it a few moments, the floral hops begin to come through, adding a subtle complexity to the aroma. At the tail end, there’s a slight metallic note, but by then, you’re probably already anticipating that first sip. The overall scent is fresh and vibrant, with just enough depth to keep it interesting without being overwhelming. It’s a clean, citrus-forward aroma that invites you to take a drink.
Taste
On the first sip, the Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale delivers a burst of bright, refreshing citrus, dominated by lemon and zest. The citrus is sharp and invigorating, immediately waking up your taste buds. As the flavours settle, a note of pine comes through, adding an earthy, resinous undertone that complements the acidity of the lemon. This earthy character gives the beer a bit more depth, preventing the citrus from feeling one-dimensional.
The beer also features a balancing note of caramel at the back, adding just enough sweetness to counter the bitterness of the citrus. The bitterness here is undeniable – it’s a bold, upfront flavour that defines the beer – but the balance of sweetness and bitterness keeps it from being too overwhelming. In a world where many non-alcoholic beers lean toward the sweeter side to mask the absence of alcohol, this brew is a refreshing change. It offers a more complex, bitter profile that’s rare in the NA beer world. For those who appreciate that kind of flavour, it’s a real treat.
Mouthfeel
With a light to medium body, the Prohibition Pale Ale has a satisfying heft on the palate. This is surprising for a non-alcoholic beer. It doesn’t feel too thin or watery, offering enough substance to make each sip feel substantial. The carbonation is measured and well-balanced, providing a gentle effervescence that enhances the overall drinking experience. However, when compared to traditional pale ales, the mouthfeel can feel a bit underwhelming at times. That said, it’s still pleasant and drinkable, maintaining a crisp and clean sensation on the tongue.
Finish
The finish of the Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale is where the bitterness really shines. It lingers on the palate with a sharp, citrus-heavy aftertaste that stays with you for a while. Unlike many non-alcoholic beers that leave behind a sugary taste, this one offers a refreshing bitterness that feels crisp and clean. While I wouldn’t call the finish “smooth,” it’s part of what makes this beer stand out – it’s not trying to be a traditional, smooth-drinking lager, and that’s perfectly fine. The finish is bold and a little punchy, which is a refreshing departure from the typical sugary, flat finishes that often plague non-alcoholic beers.
Pairing Suggestions
Given its vibrant citrus-forward flavour profile, the Prohibition Pale Ale pairs excellently with spicy dishes. Think tacos or a zesty Thai curry, where the beer’s bitterness can cut through the heat and complement the spices. It’s also a perfect match for seafood, particularly dishes like ceviche or fresh sashimi, where the lemony notes of the beer will enhance the delicate flavours of the fish. The citrusy bite works well to balance the richness of seafood and can also stand up to the acidity of a tomato-based dish. While it’s light enough to enjoy on its own, pairing it with these kinds of foods will really elevate the experience. Just be cautious about pairing it with very heavy or rich meals – this beer’s bright, zesty character might get lost in more complex flavours.
Overall Impressions of Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale
If you like your pale ales with a strong citrus punch, then the Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale is definitely one to try. It’s bold, refreshing, and a little bit different from the usual non-alcoholic options on the market. The lack of sweetness is a welcome change. It makes this beer stand out in a sea of overly sweet NA brews. While it can feel a bit punchy at times, that’s part of what makes it so appealing. It doesn’t shy away from its bitter, citrus-heavy flavour.
For those who prefer a more complex, bitter profile in their non-alcoholic beer, this brew is a refreshing option. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy bold flavours and are looking for something a little less mainstream in the NA beer scene. If you’re someone who enjoys a good pale ale with a strong citrus kick, the Hawkesbury Prohibition Pale Ale will likely become a regular in your rotation.