Media Release

James Squire steals limelight with release of hop thief varietal series

An evolving American Pale Ale celebrating different hop flavours

July 2013 – Beer lovers are set for a treat this month with the release of the fifth edition of the Hop Thief Varietal Series – James Squire Hop Thief 5, an American Pale Ale showcasing Centennial and Citra hop varieties.

A true reflection of James Squire’s ‘life full of flavour’, the Hop Thief Varietal Series commemorates his ‘hop’ theft shortly after his arrival in Australia. Claiming that his partner Mary Spencer was ill, Australia’s first brewer stole a quantity of herbs known as horehound – the closest thing to hops he could find at the time – so he could brew beer. As penalty for stealing the ‘hops’, the judge ordered James Squire receive 150 lashes – and provide two barrels of his finest ale.

It took Squire another 15 years of playing many different roles in the flourishing colony to truly come full circle, from ‘hop thief’ to becoming the first person to grow hops on Australian soil.

“Whilst there have been four limited Hop Thief releases over the past few years that showcased hops from around the world, Hop Thief 5 marks the transition to a permanent release series. From now on the beer will be available all year round; with seasonal changes to the hop recipe,” said Malt Shovel Head Brewer, Jeff Potter.

Hop Thief 5 delivers a distinct, full-bodied hop flavour true to the American Pale Ale-style. The Centennial and Citra hop varieties add robust citrus and stone fruit characters, balanced by a rich malt body.

“We hope this new release will give our drinkers something to savour, as well as build anticipation for the next edition to the Varietal Series, which will once again celebrate the unique characteristics of different hop varieties,” said Potter.

James Squire Hop Thief 5 is available on tap at select venues across the country from early July.