When we think of Australia we think of many stereotypes, perhaps rightfully so. On the negative side, they have a lot of beach surfaces, and it’s definitely a wild place. One thing that does not come to mind, however, is the tradition of brewing excellence. So when Foster’s Lager ads play on television and tout the label “Australian for beer”, I’ve never been impressed. Despite this glaring problem, the product is sold almost everywhere. I see it in specialty beer shops, in bottles and sometimes in bars, and even at a standard roadside gas station. Although I certainly know better now, since it’s been distributed so widely, I believe there must be something about this beer that appeals to me as a beer-loving dude. But after a few cold Foster’s Grays, I’m sorry to report that the findings were less than stellar.
Foster’s Lager has a decent alcohol content at 5%. Poured over the beer is a fizzy yellow, which forms some kind of head, but the appearance is rather implacable. It reminds me of so many uninspired American beer joints and I wonder why anyone pays extra money. > He drives this stuff all the way from Australia. When looking into the six-quart glass it is clear that this beer is incredibly carbonated, which is a sure sign that the manufacturer is trying to cover up a lack of taste, the tongue certainly experiences. True to form, Foster delivers no distinct flavors. The only saving grace it lacks is that the nasty metal dyes in its American counterparts, which is not at all a cause for praise, but kudos to them to leave whatever artificial ingredients are used to make that abomination taste gems everywhere. The mouth feel is pretty light, mostly from the abundance of the aforementioned carbonation. Overall’s rather watery and seems to be a beer choice for folks who just plain don’t like beer. If a huge can and a ridiculous list of solid brews are your thing, give this one a shot. Otherwise, I recommend trying something else.
