Get Vex

There is much debate about what beverage is best for cooling down on super hot tropical days like the ones we have been having recently here in Barbados. Despite being a religious water advocate, water just cannot cut it on these days, or at least if it does by afternoon you have a most bloated uncomfortable feeling (at least I do) due to the volume you are forced to consume. Anyone who knows me, knows my go-to drink on a hot day (well, maybe any day) is an ICE COLD BANKS beer.

However, Stag beer has recently been giving Banks a run for its money, due to smart pricing at 4 for $10. They are much the beer of choice at any event and as a result, I have imbibed  my fair share. Let me admit though that this is the only reason I drink Stag. It's claim of being "A man's beer" might have something to do with this, because I find it a very harsh tasting lager. With an Alcohol By Volume of 5.5%.  in comparison to Bank's 4.7% no wonder I find it strong for my beer palate. That's just me! 

But, Banks has come under threat on my palate for the last two weeks ever since I discovered the brewery's latest concoction. I have discovered a new beer that is literally so sweet I can't stop thinking about it. 

A few weeks ago, I visited my sister Lorna's house and was offered a beer. I didn't recognise the bottle but found it to be quite interesting. I must ashamedly admit that after the first "sip" it was soo good., I had to ask where it was from? Well surprise, surprise, it is bottled right here in Barbados by my favourite people, Banks!

Vex Yellow Monkey is a blonde lager that becomes more gold the colder it gets and the monkey's face gets vex as it chills as well. Isn't that cool! 'Vex" by the way is Bajan parlance for angry.
The secret ingredient in this prize is HONEY. Traditionally, beer/wine made with honey is known as a mead and is actually nothing new. It is the mother of fermented beverages and was the preferred drink of gods! Knew there's a reason I took to it right away...lol. I am not usually one for sweet drinks but with Vex, while sweet, the beer is very flavourful and honey seems to be the bottom note that lingers a little rather than an overpowering taste. Oh and it's ABV is a mere 4.3%....sweet!
The only drawback thus far is, the beer is so hard to find. I have only been able to get it at JB's supermarket and I recently found out it is also available at B&B Distribution Ltd, Newton, Christ Church. Check it out, you won't regret it.
    My mother would always admonish us saying "when you get vex, you will eventually get back pleased," and this is one sweet case where you can be both vex and pleased at the same time! Two thumbs up Banks Brewery!!

You can learn more about mead here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mead