The Horse

Poziere came to us as a foal at foot when we bought his mother as a brood mare. Luckily for them as it works out because it was 2021 when the east coast of Australia had severe floods, and the people we bought them from lost all but three of their horses.

Poziere is the first horse to bear the Nickelrose prefix and wear the Nickelrose brand. His name comes from the town of Poziere in France where my grandfather fought in WWI as part of 1bn. All the horses we breed are named after WWI battlefields. We are concentrating on promoting the Heritage Stock Horse lines, including the Waler lines from WWI, and Poziere bears the HSH post nominal to indicate his heritage bloodlines. He comes from great campdrafting bloodlines and shows a lot of intelligence and character. He is a well handled gelding and is currently being started under saddle to prepare him for his life in competition.

Being a family of dark beer fans, Porter’s and Stout’s are a staple for us. This is an appropriate beer to name after Poz because he has a dark brown to black coat with no markings at all - and the last time I made this beer it came out dark and toasty and full of Rosemary, a homage to the boys returning from the battlefields of WWI.

Porter Beer: A Rich and Robust Delight

On this fine day, let's embark on a journey deep into the world of beer and acquaint ourselves with the exquisite delight that is a porter. Originally conceived in the early 18th century in London, this hearty and hospitable brew has captured the hearts and palates of beer enthusiasts ever since.

The Birth of a Classic

Picture yourself in the bustling streets of London, during the days when beer was the quintessential beverage of choice. In those times, the robust and dark brews known as porter began seeping into the glasses of eager patrons. The term "porter" derived from its popularity among the hardworking laborers of the bustling port city.
Contrary to popular belief, the creation of porter cannot be credited to a single individual. Rather, it emerged from a blend of styles, enchanting us with its dark allure and hints of roasted malts.

A Harmonious Symphony of Flavours

At first glance, a porter reveals itself as a beer that adorns the glass with its deep brown, occasionally black, hues. A gentle pour might reveal a creamy head that lingers, embracing the dark liquid beneath.
Upon lifting the glass to our lips, we are enveloped in an enticing bouquet of malted aroma. The scent dances with notes of chocolate, coffee, toffee, and the occasional hint of caramel, arousing our senses and inviting us to indulge.
As we take that first sip, a warming blend of flavors envelops our tongues. The toasty and roasted malts greet us, accompanied by a subtle sweetness. The prominent echoes of dark chocolate and coffee are often joined by touches of nuttiness or even a faint smokiness, adding complexity to the symphony of taste.

A Feast for the Palate

Porter's smooth and velvety texture can best be described as a gentle caress on the tongue, charmingly coating our palates. Its medium to full-bodied nature contributes to a satisfying and indulgent drinking experience, making it a marvelous choice for those seeking a more substantial beer.
One may think a beer with such complexity could be overpowering, but the genius of a well-made porter lies in its balance. Its bitterness is typically moderate, providing a gentle counterpoint that prevents the beer from becoming overly sweet while allowing the malt flavors to shine through.

A Versatile and Inviting Companion

With its delectable character, porter pairs beautifully with a wide range of culinary delights. Its roasted notes harmonize adeptly with savory dishes such as grilled meats, barbecued ribs, or hearty stews. The chocolate and coffee undertones make it a perfect companion for indulgent desserts like chocolate cake, crème brûlée, or even a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

As we bid adieu to our exploration of the porter, let us savor the knowledge that this venerable style will continue to evolve, capturing the imagination of brewers and beer enthusiasts alike. In an ever-growing craft beer scene, the versatile and enchanting porter remains a timeless classic, inviting us to raise our glasses and rejoice in its rich and robust glory.