Irish craft beer: 'Belgian Style' Saison & Foxes Rock

The Crafty Brewing Co label is an 'exclusive' range brewed by the Rye River Brewing Company in Co. Kildare for Lidl Ireland. Their deliciously refreshing Belgian Style Saison (4.8% abv), whatever that means, is very aromatic and crisp while full-flavoured. The brewery's (edited) tasting note says it all (and much more...): 'Hazy and unfiltered with a stiff rocky foam that exudes an aroma of fruits, spice, bubblegum and herbs... (and) subtle notes of Sauvignon Blanc (it really does) from a late hop addition finishing dry.' Good with Thai green curry. €1.99 (500ml).

Co. Louth based brewer Foxes Rock makes a diverse selection of beers including the two tasty little numbers photoed above. The American Style IPA (5.2% abv) is paler (although not light in colour) and yeast-hazy with more aromatic, fruitier profile and nice crisp bite, yet a touch fuller bodied too: great with fish and chips (a quality hake supper from my local chippie). The Red Ale (4.5% abv) is reddish brown in colour with richer, maltier, toasty nose and slightly 'sweeter' palate; certainly not sweet though and still refreshing. A barbecued food beer perhaps? Four bottles (half-litre) for £8 deal at WineMark (Northern Ireland) shops.