I live Down Under, in Sydney to be exact. I had to go to Melbourne for work for a few months and I found a great little pub called the Elephant and The Wheelbarrow that serves all sorts of UK/European delights. It was there that I discovered what would become my staple diet for the remaining few months -
Old Speckled Hen.
I also learned that this beer is particularly fussy about the way it is poured. If it's rushed it will definitely let you know about it (and I, in turn, will swiftly let the bartender know!) . It tastes like shitee when it's not poured correctly but with a little patience this is one lovely beer.
I've only ever had it on tap. I've been told it's not so good out of a bottle but I'll make my own mind up about that when I get a chance.
I've also had Hoegaarden White on tap here in Sydney. Same story, if it's poured patiently you are well rewarded.
Anyway, that's just my opinion. Everyone else is welcome to theirs!
Hope you had a great 18th _tom_, make the most of your license to drink by trying as many beers as you possibly can. It's much easier to do while you're young!
shakman