New core range beer - Gluten Free Pacific Ale
We have recently retired an old favourite, XPA, to make space in our core range for a new beer!
Pacific Ale has carved out a unique place in the Australian craft beer scene, offering a refreshing, hop-forward drinking experience that captures the essence of the country’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. TWØBAYS Founder and CEO, Richard Jeffares, used to love drinking Stone & Wood (credited with creating the Pacific Ale style), before he was told he could no longer have gluten. This is our interpretation of the style, and of course, ours is 100% gluten free so everyone can enjoy it.
Unless you have recently gone gluten free, the chances are you will never have had the chance to taste this beer style as this is the first time anyone has brewed a gluten free version of this Aussie icon. Whether you’re new to the style or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide delves into the origins of Pacific Ale, its signature tasting notes, and the best food pairings to enhance your drinking experience.
The Origins of Pacific Ale
The Pacific Ale style originated in Australia, pioneered by Stone & Wood Brewing Co. in Byron Bay in 2008. Their take on the beer, initially branded as “Draught Ale,” was inspired by traditional Belgian wheat beers but adapted for the Australian climate and tastes. Unlike heavier ales or intensely bitter IPAs, Pacific Ale focuses on lightness, freshness, and drinkability.
One of the key defining features of Pacific Ale is the use of Australian-grown Galaxy hops. This hop variety, renowned for its tropical fruit characteristics, imparts a distinctive passionfruit and citrus aroma, setting Pacific Ale apart from other pale ales. We’ve also thrown in a healthy dose of Nelson Sauvin from New Zealand. The beer is typically brewed with a combination of pale malt and wheat malt, contributing to a slightly hazy appearance and smooth mouthfeel, but of course being a TWØBAYS brew, we’ve substituted the malts with malted millet (Vienna and Cara) and yellow corn.
Since its inception, Stone & Wood Pacific Ale has influenced numerous breweries, inspiring a wave of similarly brewed ales that emphasize sessionability, fruity hop character, and an easy-drinking nature, so we felt it was time gluten free beer drinkers could enjoy the same experience.
Tasting Notes
Pacific Ale is known for its bright, aromatic profile and refreshing taste. Here’s what you can expect when sipping on a glass:
- Appearance – A pale golden hue with a touch of haze.
- Aroma – Bursting with tropical fruit notes, predominantly pineapple, pine and citrus, thanks to the generous use of Galaxy and Nelson Sauvin hops.
- Taste – A light malt backbone supports a juicy, fruity hop character with subtle bitterness. The yellow corn grits provide a smooth texture, making it exceptionally easy to drink.
- Mouthfeel – Soft, slightly effervescent, and incredibly refreshing with a dry, clean finish.
Batch #1 of TWØBAYS Gluten Free Pacific Ale ready to ship
Perfect Food Pairings
The fruity, refreshing nature of Pacific Ale makes it an excellent match for a variety of dishes, especially those that complement its tropical and citrusy notes. Here are some top food pairings:
- Fresh Seafood – Pacific Ale pairs beautifully with grilled prawns, fish tacos, and ceviche, enhancing the natural sweetness of seafood with its bright, citrus-driven flavours.
- Spicy Dishes – The beer’s light body and fruity profile help balance the heat of spicy Asian dishes, such as Thai curries or Vietnamese banh mi.
- BBQ and Grilled Meats – A great accompaniment to grilled chicken, pulled pork, or chargrilled vegetables, as the mild malt sweetness complements smoky flavours.
- Cheese and Light Snacks – Try it with a soft cheese like brie or a mild goat cheese to enhance its creamy texture and tropical notes.
Pacific Ale is more than just a beer; it’s a taste of the Australian coast in a glass. Its fruity, easy-drinking nature makes it a go-to choice for summer gatherings, beachside barbecues, and casual catch-ups. Whether you’re enjoying it with fresh seafood, spicy dishes, or simply on its own, Pacific Ale delivers a vibrant and refreshing drinking experience that continues to define modern Australian craft beer culture.
Next time you’re looking for a beer that embodies sunshine, good company, and laid-back vibes, reach for a Pacific Ale - you won’t be disappointed!
