Drunkerland is taking craft beers out of the hands of the hipsters and placing them in the more casual context of a downtown community watering hole. More than 100 brews are available here and over half of them are Belgian, with Japan, the UK, the US and Hong Kong splitting up the rest. Spoiled for choice, we go for a Kagua Blanc ($95) from Japan on a whim. It turns out to be a lemon-coloured blonde ale with strong citrusy notes of honeyed yuzu and a clean finish. It’s fresh and unusual.
Hopping to the other end of the spectrum, we ask for something darker and get an off-menu Chipotle Porter from Mikkeller ($90). When it arrives, we freak out (in a good way) over its intensely smoky, roasted aroma. In contrast to the straightforwardness of the Kagua, there’s a tumble of notes to be experienced here – sweet molasses up front, followed by bitter chocolate tangs and some lingering chipotle spice on the finish.
It’s not the swishest spot in the world but Drunkerland’s a great place to have a good time with friends while quaffing some pretty fine beers. This bar proves you don’t have to get all fancy and hipster with your craft brews.