Tank 1 is a thick, hazey pale ale from Hammerton with tonnes of papaya, tangerine and passion fruit notes on the nose and palate. Tank 1 is vegan-friendly.
Of all the cartoons I watched growing up, I poured the most time into The Simpsons. Every evening at 6pm, I’d chuck aside any homework and dive onto the sofa just like our favourite yellow family in the opening credits.
The best moments, however, were when we encountered the brilliant guest characters. Best of all were Kang and Kodos, the tentacle aliens. So when I found a beer that seemed to have them all over the label, I couldn’t resist.
Immediately on opening the can I’m assaulted with tropical and citrus fruit aromas: tangerine, papaya, and passion fruit. With more of the same on the palate and not even the barest hint of bitterness, it feels a little like drinking a boozy, adult Um Bongo.
The mouthfeel is interesting. Tank 1 has a thick, pillowy texture thanks to the wheat, oats, and dry hopping. But that’s cut through with a heavy amount of carbonation. The result is a beer with the consistency of sparkling cream. It leaves the mouth watering and the mind confused, in a way I’m not entirely convinced by.
On balance, however, I’m blown away by the sheer volume of tropical fruit aroma and flavour in this beer. It’s fresh, fruity and fun – and during lockdown, that’s something we could all do with a little more of.
