Beer52’s Melbourne-themed January 2021 box is a fascinating proposition — Australian craft brewing has developed rapidly over the past decade, and Melbourne in particular has become one of the most vibrant and creative beer cities in the world. Getting a curated selection of Melbourne craft beers delivered to Scotland in January, when going anywhere near a pub was not an option, felt particularly well-timed. Australia’s craft scene has its own identity: bold flavours, a love of hop-forward styles, and a growing interest in sours and farmhouse ales.
What the Box Delivered
Melbourne craft brewing tends toward IPAs and pale ales with big tropical hop character — the warm Australian climate and the influence of American craft brewing have produced a style that’s distinctively Southern Hemisphere. Expect vivid mango, passionfruit, and citrus hop aromatics alongside clean, well-made lagers and the occasional dark beer. The quality in this box was consistently high, with several beers that would stand comparison with anything from the UK or US craft scene.
Verdict
Beer52’s themed international boxes are one of their strongest offerings, and the Melbourne edition was an excellent example of the format. Australian craft beer deserves far more attention in the UK than it currently gets, and this box was a compelling argument for seeking it out. If this theme comes around again, get it immediately — it’s a very enjoyable way to spend a lockdown January.
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