Mount Maunganui's own Mount Brewing have been making great beer in their fabulous brewery and taproom since 1996. It's called The Rising Tide. The brewery started by Glenn and Virginia Meikle is a second-generation business these days, with daughter Briar now in charge. In recent years they've strung together regular appearances in our Top 30 thanks to compelling flavour twists, particularly with their cider range. This is a rhubarb bonanza, with an almost dessert-wine quality to the sweet-tart balance. The judges were in love with it: "Very attractive rhubarb aromas. Beautifully balanced with sweetness. Lovely depth and length. Very enjoyable. Impressive fruit expression."

Find out more about Mount Brewing on the Ale Trail.