By James Atkinson
Coopers Brewery has released its limited edition 2012 Extra Strong Vintage Ale, this time in 355 ml bottle format.
The 12th vintage follows the recent release of Coopers Celebration Ale, which was specifically brewed to mark Coopers' 150th anniversary in May.
It comes after the brewer recently told TheShout that "super craft" beers like the Vintage Ale and the Celebration Ale are an important part of its platform for future growth.
Coopers managing director and chief brewer Dr Tim Cooper said this year's Vintage Ale once again lived up to the high standards of brewing excellence expected by beer enthusiasts everywhere.
"We have kept to our philosophy of using only superior ingredients, including premium-quality Australian malted barley sourced from pristine growing regions of the Clare Valley, along with select varieties of aromatic and bittering hops," he said.
The alcohol content remains at 7.5 per cent alcohol by volume, retaining Vintage Ale's title as the strongest beer brewed by Coopers.
Coopers chairman Mr Glenn Cooper said Vintage Ale 2012 had moved to an elegant 355 ml bottle, "creating a more streamlined and sophisticated appearance".
"After receiving such a positive response following the release of 355 ml Celebration Ale bottles, we anticipate the same enthusiasm for Vintage," he said.
Dr Cooper said the strong and complex flavour of this year's Vintage would be best matched with hearty dishes made of meat and poultry, but could also be enjoyed at the end of a meal with sweet desserts and strong cheeses.
The 2012 Vintage Ale is priced from around $75.00 per carton, or around $22.00 per six pack of 355 ml bottles.