Aug 08 - Traditional Beer Tasting At The Rock Hotel
Last night, the Rock Hotel hosted a unique tasting event to showcase the artisanal beers produced by the Kettal brewery in Palmones. Beer enthusiasts gathered by the hotel’s poolside bar to sample the six beers which make up Kettal’s standard range.
Each beer was matched to a specially chosen tapa made by the innovative Rock Hotel kitchen. Standout dishes included “Salmorejo de Fresa” and a twist on the old favourite: “Chorizo with Quail Eggs.”
Kettal, which is based in the Palmones commercial park across the border, was opened by retired businessman Tim Revill and his business partner Mercedes Scanlon. They aim to produce beer using “the flavours that nature provides, with no artificial additives.”
Kettal’s range of beers will suit all tastes. For example, last night we tasted their Trillo “Cerveza de Verano” which is a light, lager-like pale ale; a delicious and refreshing thirst-quencher. At the other extreme is their Fanega ale “Doble Malta” which is a far richer offering with an unmistakable toffee flavor. The firm also produces a traditional black porter which they have named El Yunque. This tar-like liquid has hints of coffee and dark chocolate. All in all, a welcome diversion for the palate and a change from a market saturated with nondescript and tasteless lagers.
