Overview
If 2020 has reminded us of anything, it's that some surprises are truly terrible. But at least there's plenty of the other, nicer kind of surprise to even things out. Like the brand-new Quiet XPA from emerging brewery Heaps Normal, which just happens to be both full-flavoured and surprisingly alcohol-free.
Now gracing bottle shop shelves across the country, the unfiltered booze-free ale is Heaps Normal's debut creation, with more non-alcoholic releases planned for the not-too-distant future. It has been carefully brewed to stand up against its more traditional indie craft counterparts, while also promising the glorious gift of zero hangovers.
As far as the beery stuff goes, it's got tropical, citrus aromas, backed by a balanced bitterness and just a hint of sweetness from the malt. And, in another win for the health-conscious, the XPA is rocking less calories than the average full-strength beer, plus it's made with less sugar than many alcohol-free alternatives.
Heaps Normal co-founders Andy Miller, Ben Holdstock and Peter Brennan
Heaps Normal is the brainchild of four mates — Andy Miller, Ben Holdstock, Peter Brennan and Jordy Smith — who each had various reasons for wanting to cut down the booze and are now on a mission to help normalise mindful drinking. And it's clear they're not alone, with results from last year's Australia Talks National Survey suggesting 90 percent of Aussies see drug and alcohol abuse as one of the biggest issues facing our country.
In fact, according to a recent Neilsen survey, around two-thirds of Australian drinkers between the ages of 21 and 34 are making an effort to minimise their alcohol consumption. And that's data from before a global pandemic swooped in, cooped us all up at home and saw many folks quaffing a little more than usual.
Now, expect to see plenty more booze-free options on offer at bars and bottle shops, as brands like Heaps Normal respond to a growing call for non-alcoholic drinks that taste legit. If you indulged a little more than usual over lockdown and are looking to cut down, you might just be surprised with what guilt-free goodies are out there.
Find out more and order your Quiet XPA at the Heaps Normal website.