James Boag’s Wizard Smith’s Ale
Tuesday, October 9th, 2007
From the outset, James Boag’s has prided itself on being one of Australia’s premier brewers for over 150 years, and this particular product is no exception. James Boag’s Wizard Smith’s Ale is an impeccable brew and shouts nothing but pride to the brew masters at Tasmania’s finest Brewery.
A limited edition brew, Wizard Smith’s is a ‘traditional English ale’, encapsulating the method and history of ‘pale ale’ brewing. Using ‘full malt brew dry hopped with East Kent Goldings’, the brew encompasses all you would expect from a traditional English ale. Do not be fooled by this though, this amazing beverage is as Australian as a meat pie. The synchronization of the taste of English ale with that of having that distinct Australian, Boag’s taste is amazing. As with many boutique beers, there is an interesting history. “In 1929 the Great Flood swamped much of Launceston without warning. Wizard Smith, J. Boag & Son’s drayman, at great risk to himself sought to save the brewery horses. Riding his pushbike until he could go no further, he plunged into the rising floodwaters and swam into the stables, successfully leading the horses to dry ground. For his bravery Wizard was rewarded with a job for life”.
The seamless marriages of flavour in the beer aren’t what you would expect; sweetness and bitterness walk hand in hand. Fruity and spicy aromas compliment each other with the greatest of ease. The flavour is an incredibly complex one, but the perfect balance of these flavours has completed this as a superb boutique beer, but this blend has the makings for an easy-enough-to-drink session beer as well. Its pleasant aftertaste lingers in your mouth, and the aromatics tease your nose long after the drink has been taken.
The most unfortunate thing about this beer is the fact that it is only a Limited Edition. Currently, I have only seen it at 1st Choice or Dan Murphy’s Liquor barns, clocking in at around $16.99 per six pack, or just over $60 for a carton. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. This beer is worth finding. Well done, James Boag’s.
Rating (out of five):
Quick Facts : 5.0% alcohol – 375ml amber bottle – Twist top
Category : Ale, Beer Reviews
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Just a delightful ale with a very refreshing taste.
I have been trying to obtain a carton of Wizard Smith here in Adelaide however have had no luck.
Boags should brew another batch for say an annual release. It is too good an ale not to as it sells itself.
Enjoyed a taste of wizard ale after our tour of the brewery, why isnt this available on the mainland?
Its almost worth the $100 return air fare just to sample it again except the wife wont let me!
I bought a 6-pack after the tour only to find when I got home that it was mixed. Should have bought another.