Maitland Gaol is one hell of a place to kick back with mates. Just ask Ivan Milat. But like all outdoor venues, it’s at the mercy of the weather. For a Bitter and Twisted to reach peak enjoyment, you require Goldilocks conditions. Thankfully, for the first leg of the two-day event, conditions were perfect. There was a persistent wind, but that wasn’t going to prevent a sold-out crowd from tasting a wide array of boutique beers and lending an ear to some supreme musical talent.
First stop was one of Bitter and Twisted’s old faithful and, as it did every year, Morpeth Brewing Co.’s stand demanded repeat business. Their Black Tractor Black IPA was delicious – dark, hoppy and brought to life with a few fruit notes. Their East Coast Cream Ale was as the name suggested, a full-bodied pleasure to imbibe. One of the day’s highlights was their clean and refreshing Close Call IPA, a brew made from North American hops and Australian pale malt. Top shelf.
One of the surprise packages was Nomad’s Freshie Salt & Pepper Gose, a refreshing brew that warranted return tastings. The brewery from Sydney’s Northern Beaches concocted their own version of a German gose, using sea water and Tasmanian pepper – salty beer shouldn’t work, but it was not overpowering, more a subtle kicker – and bloody delicious.
Another stand-out beer was The Governor Golden Ale by Sydney’s Rocks Brewing Co. The easy-to-drink drop was a light golden colour and had hints of stone fruit and citrus. A great cleanser and suitable session beer.
There were a few cool kids from Sydney in attendance this year. Young Henrys have a consistent range of beers, and their Natural Lager went down a treat as the sun reached peak midday heat. It’s a simple, gentle and dry beer that’s made for hot weather. The other trend-setter was Modus Operandi. Easy brews were the order of the day, and their Layback Aussie Pale, with its hop aromas and mango finish, proved a winner.
The musical highlight of the day was William Crighton and his band, who showed off their ragged, emotive folk rock prowess. Amongst fan favourites like ‘2000 Clicks’ and ‘Priest’ were new tracks like ‘Talking to God’ and ‘Lost Without You’, and a couple of superb covers, like Redgum’s ‘Poor Ned’ (perfect jail tune) and the Amazing Rhythm Aces classic ‘The End is Not In Sight (The Cowboy Tune)’. A mighty songwriter and performer backed by a supreme outfit.
Honourable mention goes to Wasted Wanderers. The Adelaide trio have a soul-tinged take on blues rock – very melodic and hugely listenable. Keep your ears out for them.
It was another brilliant day out. Bitter and Twisted has done its reputation as an essential sojourn – a session amongst friends and frothies – no harm whatsoever. Here’s to next year.
