I stopped by the Mehana brewery in Hilo and got a chance to sample all their beers on tap and chat with the brewers. Nice, clean, small brewery and very open and pleasant to visit. There was a small tasting room with a nice young lady pouring small plastic cups to about 5 people while I was there.
This brewery was bought out of bankruptcy last year and they are trying to build up a base of sales to make sure the business is solid. After that, the brewer said they may try some new types and flavor tweaks. DeMare Enterprises Inc., a Hawaii corporation, is the new owner of the Hawaii Nui and Mehana Brewery. Location is 275 East Kawili St. in the industrial area of Hilo.
I had recommended they work on the Porter and I really like ones with coffee and coconut as additives, for that unique island taste. He said that was being done by the other two brewers on the Island and they would consider something different. The Porter they have now is quite smooth yet uninspired. A great try for beer drinkers who are not really into dark, strong brews. I really like the coconut/coffee taste from the other 2 on this island the one from Maui. I don’t think if done right, it would be an overlap.
He said they may try a lager as a new part of the line up. Lager takes about 3 weeks longer than ales and in my opinion, is harder to get right. I am not a fan of the Long Board from Kona brewery and think it needs to lose the sweet. doughy taste.. I did try one from Aloha brewery on Oahu I liked better. I will be taking a trip there to visit and try again.
I will be back to this brewery again to taste and chat. It is my local craft brewery and I wish them all the luck in the world! I will do a review of each beer, one by one. I can already tell you I am a fan. Here is a link to their site. Mehana Brewing
Mehana Brewery beers include Mauna Kea Pale Ale, Volcano Red Ale, Hawaii Crow Porter, Tsunami IPA and Humpback Blonde Ale.
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