GABS Brewer: Mick O’Rance from Goose Island Beer Company

What sort of beer are you making for GABS?
For the 2018 GABS event our festival brew will be a Red IPA.

What’s it called?
The beer will be called “Red Line IPA”.

Where did the inspiration come from?
Inspiration for the beer came from the changing of seasons where a red IPA works best. As GABS is held between summer and winter, our red IPA bridges this gap by having a depth of flavour to suit savouring the beer in the cooler months, yet still being drinkable enough to quaff a few down any day the sun is shining through. The name for the brew originated from our Chicago ties, making reference to the “red” train line in Chicago. It was also my dream BMX when I was as kid.

Would you still drink craft beer if it was all alcohol-free?
Nope!

What’s the dumbest thing you’ve had someone say to you about beer?
“I don’t like beer” when the only beer they have ever tried is a run of the mill lager. Beer is the most varied beverage out there and I believe people just need to find one that suits their tastes.

The Great Australian Beer Spectapular is on in Melbourne on May 18-20 at the Royal Exhibition Building, Sydney on June 2 at the Sydney Showground and ASB Showgrounds in Auckland on June 30.