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As an addendum, it is worth pointing out that the Malthouse's handpumps are, of course, genuine, unlike the fake ones round the corner at The Bruhaus and The Tap Haus, where the beer is pushed up to the bar by carbon dioxide at the pull of a switch. Admittedly, the artificial carbonation is relatively low at those establishments, but the beer served is some of the most unpleasant, stale, metallic-tasting rubbish that has ever passed this drinker's lips. These places' pretence at serving proper beer simply give the genuine purveyors of the drink we all love, such as The Malthouse, a bad name.
As a further and final addendum, the team behind the Malthouse are responsible for the Fork and Brewer on Bond St, where brewing finally started after various delays in September. Apparently they've had repeated requests to install handpumps and serve real ale. Strangely, they have, as yet, not succumbed.
Looking forward to visiting next month i get there weekend after new year
ReplyDeleteSorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the Malthouse's hand pumps (while indeed genuine) don't serve real ale. They serve bright beer from kegs that they've specifically requested to delivered uncarbed from the brewery. The kegs are then *very* lightly carbonated (just to preserve freshness, in the same way as a cask breather would). A small firkin of ale from local breweries can be found on the bartop from time-to-time, and this is the real deal.
ReplyDeleteYou'll find that this is the case with almost every bar around Wellington. Almost none serve real cask-conditioned ale (although LBQ is beginning to where possible -- ask Dan about this). Everywhere else serves their beer from a decarbed keg, or a bag of bright beer. Very occasionally you will find a firkin on the bar in Hashigo Zake.
Of course, this is not to say that you can't find a good pint of well-kept ale around town. The Malthouse does keep its beer in good condition, and the handpumps are often my default choice when in there. Just putting you on the right track.
Cheers,
Tom