BRAHMA
InBev
Brazil, 4.8% ABV
First created in Brazil in 1888, the first thing that is noticeable about this pale lager is its uniquely-shaped bottle. Basically, it is designed to fit snugly in your hand to enhance the drinking experience. Enjoyment is the priority here. Brahma encompasses the Brazilian philosophy called ‘ginga’. In the UK, of course, ginga is something occasionally shouted at unfortunate ginger-haired people, but the Brazilians are much more civilised than that. An African word that found its way to Brazil through a dance/martial art called Capoeira, ginga (pronounced jin-ga) means never taking life too seriously and always being free-spirited. Other than capturing that in the bottle’s design, that’s what they want us to get from the beer’s taste. I’m not saying you immediately want to do the Samba, but it will certainly put you on the road to having a time. It’s not too gassy and is a drink to be savoured and appreciated, rather than rammed down the throat. It’s light, yet strong, and perfect if ice cold, either at home or in the pub. But you’ll have to be quick – InBev relegated Brahma from their ‘core drive brand lagers’ in summer 2008. A poor result for a promising 2005 £5 million signing. The stars in the Brahma logo are inspired by the stars that were visible in the sky above Rio on the day the republic of Brazil was declared. Brahma would get five more stars if I was awarding them, but as I’m not, I recommend you give this one a try and discover a new meaning for ginga. SW
