| Some beer snobs think that the Rock has gotten too Big for its britches. From humble beginnings in 1985, Big Rock has grown into Huge Rock. At various times, I have seen its beers advertised throughout Canada and the U.S., in England and even in small towns in Belgium. The brewer recently launched sales in South Korea.
Despite its size and growth, and despite fantastic beers from Calgary's other fine craft brewers, the title of best beer brewed in Calgary has, like Excalibur's sword, remained firmly gripped by the Rock. And, while flagship brands Traditional and Grasshopper may be crowd favourites, neither of them can hold a candle to Big Rock's best.
The surprisingly-hard-to-find Big Rock McNally's Extra Ale is the only beer from Western Canada to make the worldwide list of 500 classic brews determined by world-renowned beer expert Michael Jackson. This Irish-style ale has an amber colour with orange highlights. A firm, malty body is provided by Canadian pale and British crystal and black malts, while a delicious balancing hop bitterness comes from eroica hops. At seven per cent alcohol by volume, this beer is a sipper, not a quaffer, so drink it slowly. When cold, it will display a nice, sweet molasses note, but as it warms, hop aromas and flavours will emerge to yield a more balanced flavour and wonderful fruity essences.
Is it any wonder that Big Rock's founder Ed McNally has saved this beer to call his own? |
Copyright ©2007 FFWD. All rights reserved.