4 Pines Brewing Company’s well respected Beer Mimics Food event is back as part of Melbourne Good Beer Week.

This year, Chef Andrew McConnell (Cutler & Co., Builders Arms Hotel, Cumulus Inc., Golden Fields) and lovable larrikin/comedian Mick Molloy have been enlisted to brew their own food-inspired beers for the occasion. The duo are looking to inspire innovation in brewing with their, ahem, creative concoctions which will be revealed to the public at the Builders Arms Hotel on Wednesday 21 May.

Tasked with creating a beer that is influenced by food flavours, these two gents lead the creative process alongside the brewers at 4 Pines to invent two limited-edition beers that they believe, will knock your socks off.

In his Beer Mimics Food debut, Molloy aims to appeal to Aussies and Kiwis alike. Whether you use the word ‘jandals’ instead of ‘thongs’ or mistake a ‘chilly bin’ for an ‘esky’, the Anzac Biscuit Stout will soothe the most parochial of inter-Tasman rivalries. Using Kiwi hops, it’s a full-bodied brew with a hint of oats, coconut and golden syrup; said to be both liberating and unifying. He may not have the advantage of past brewing experience, but Malloy assures us his beer is big, bold and booming.

“The Anzac Biscuit Stout combines two of my favourite things – biscuits and beer. It’s a match made in drinking heaven. The brewing process was great to be part of. It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to brew my own beer so I was like a mad scientist at 4 Pines,” said Malloy.

McConnell, a Beer Mimics Food veteran who dazzled beer-lovers with his Signature Relish Ale at last year’s event, is back with the confidence of a peacock and a new flashy brew, the Asian-inspired XO Sauce Ale. The blend of dried scallop, chilli and garlic with an ale may divide the masses, but we’re led to believe McConnell’s brew is a classy crowd-pleaser.

“XO sauce originated in Hong Kong and after living there for many years it became one of my favourite flavours. I love the sweet, savoury, umami qualities of the sauce which I think will pair really well with a good cold lager,” said Andrew.

Beer lovers are welcome to make their own judgment on the limited edition beers at this free event during GoodBeer Week. The crew from 4 Pines will also be there so it’s a chance to meet the brains behind one of Australia’s favourite craft breweries.

Event: 4 Pines’ Beer Mimics Food

Date & Time: Wednesday, 21 May, 6:00pm

Cost: Free

Venue: Builders Arms Hotel, 211 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Melbourne

For more information, visit the 4 Pines Beer website.