The Inspiration Behind the Knockout
Fresh from the New Zealand hop harvest, Head Brewer Abby was buzzing with ideas. Surrounded by some of the world’s most expressive hop varieties, she returned determined to capture that intensity and showcase the knockout character of Southern Hemisphere hops.
“I wanted this brew to be a bit of a tip of the hat to New Zealand hops. Nectaron and Riwaka were absolute standouts — they had this incredible mix of tropical fruit and grassy complexity that I couldn’t wait to bring to the glass.”
The idea? A NEIPA that still hits those juicy, tropical notes the style is known for, but with layers, softness, and structure that make it memorable.
The Hops
Abby built a hop bill that’s as expressive as it is balanced:
Whirlpool: Citra (US), Galaxy (AUS), Riwaka (NZ)
Dry Hop: Nectaron (NZ), Riwaka (NZ), Galaxy (AUS)
Dry hop rate: 16g/L
“Nectaron brings pineapple, passionfruit, and juicy stone fruits in a tidal wave. Riwaka’s got that dank, grassy freshness that adds a whole new dimension. It’s not a typical NEIPA flavour — but that’s why I love it.
Citra adds bright citrus and floral notes in the whirlpool, while Galaxy cranks up the tropical fruit profile with passionfruit and stone fruit, rounding everything out."
The Malt Bill
This isn’t just about hops. The grain bill was carefully built for body and mouthfeel, essential for a NEIPA that drinks as juicy as it smells.
- Base malt
- Malted and rolled oats
- A touch of wheat
- Golden Promise for extra depth and structure
“The oats and wheat give that signature creamy mouthfeel, while the Golden Promise helps balance the weight of the hops with just enough backbone.”
Brewing Philosophy
Abby takes inspiration from traditional styles, but always adds a personal twist.
“Even when I’m getting creative with hop combinations, I want to respect the core of the style. With NEIPAs, I love experimenting in the whirlpool and dry hop. You can keep things interesting for drinkers while still hitting that haze, hop aroma, and soft bitterness.”
Final Word from Abby
“Knockout ‘K.O.’ NEIPA isn’t just fruit juice in a glass — it’s a full sensory experience. It’s got layers, depth, and a complexity that keeps you coming back. I wanted a beer that could bring warmth, weight, and flavour even as the weather cools down — and I reckon this one does it.”
Want to try Knockout ‘K.O.’ NEIPA for yourself?
It’s our Beer of the Month for June — bold, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavour. Available now on tap in The Kennel and in takeaway cans.
It's a limited release. Don’t miss it.
