Discover the Refreshing Elegance of Clonea Strand
Clonea Strand is a delightful Kölsch crafted by Dungarvan Brewing Company, one of Ireland's celebrated craft breweries, nestled in the picturesque County Waterford. With a 4.5% ABV, this beer is inspired by the traditional German Kölsch style, offering a light, crisp, and refreshing experience that is perfect for any occasion. Clonea Strand brings a touch of Irish craftsmanship to this classic style, making it a must-try for beer enthusiasts looking for a clean and balanced brew.
Brewery Information
Dungarvan Brewing Company was founded in 2010 in the coastal town of Dungarvan, County Waterford, Ireland. This family-owned brewery has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality, traditional-style beers using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. The brewery's mission is to create beers that reflect the character and beauty of their surroundings, with a commitment to quality, flavour, and innovation.
Dungarvan Brewing Company is known for its dedication to brewing excellence and has won numerous awards for its range of beers. They pride themselves on using traditional brewing methods, without any filtration or pasteurisation, to ensure each beer retains its natural flavour and character. This commitment to authenticity and quality has earned them a loyal following among beer enthusiasts in Ireland and beyond. With a focus on sustainability, Dungarvan Brewing Company continues to lead the way in Irish craft beer, combining tradition with a passion for brewing.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Clonea Strand pours a pale golden colour with a brilliant clarity, topped with a fluffy white head that lingers, adding to its visual appeal.
- Aroma: The aroma is light and inviting, with hints of fresh bread, subtle fruitiness, and a touch of floral hops. The malt backbone provides a gentle sweetness that complements the delicate hop notes.
- Flavour: On the palate, Clonea Strand offers a perfect balance of light malt sweetness and subtle hop bitterness. The flavour is clean and crisp, with notes of biscuit, a hint of citrus, and a mild herbal finish. The refreshing taste profile makes it an excellent choice for a session beer.
- Mouthfeel: This Kölsch has a light to medium body with a smooth, effervescent mouthfeel. The carbonation is moderate, enhancing the beer’s crisp, refreshing character and making it highly drinkable.
Food Pairings
Clonea Strand is a versatile beer that pairs well with a variety of dishes, enhancing the dining experience with its clean and balanced profile:
- Seafood: The light, crisp nature of Clonea Strand makes it an ideal match for seafood dishes such as grilled prawns, fish tacos, or a classic fish and chips. The beer’s subtle bitterness complements the delicate flavours of the seafood without overpowering them.
- Salads: Pair this Kölsch with a fresh green salad topped with a citrus vinaigrette. The beer’s subtle citrus notes and refreshing finish will highlight the zesty dressing and the freshness of the greens.
- Light Appetisers: Clonea Strand is an excellent choice with light appetisers like bruschetta, caprese salad, or soft cheeses. Its clean finish and balanced bitterness cleanse the palate, making it a perfect match for a variety of light bites.
- Spicy Dishes: The beer’s crisp, refreshing character helps to tame the heat of spicy dishes, making it an ideal pairing for spicy Asian cuisine or buffalo wings.
Serving and Cocktail Suggestions
Serving Suggestions:
- Optimal Temperature: Serve chilled at 4-6°C to fully appreciate the crisp, clean flavours of Clonea Strand.
- Glassware: A Kölsch glass or a tall, narrow glass is ideal for serving, helping to maintain the beer’s head and showcase its bright golden hue.
Cocktail Ideas:
- Kölsch Spritz: Mix Clonea Strand with a splash of elderflower liqueur and a dash of soda water for a refreshing, floral twist.
- Lemon Kölsch: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dash of ginger syrup to a glass of Clonea Strand for a zesty, spicy kick.
Clonea Strand is more than just a beer; it’s a celebration of Irish brewing craftsmanship and the perfect companion for any occasion. Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15.