The Brewers Dray Blog

Perth Royal Beer Show 2011 Results

2011-06-17T18:54:00.000-07:00

Congrats to all the trophy winners at the Perth Royal Beer Show awards dinner last night (17th June 2011), here's a list of the triumphant few . . . .

Commercial Awards

The Hopco Trophy for best Commercial Brewery: Swan Brewery Co Pty Ltd

The Premiers Trophy for the Best Western Australian Beer of the Show: Feral Brewing Co for "Hop Hog"

The Beer and Beef Club of Perth Trophy for Best Commercial Beer of the Show: Holgate Brewhouse for "Hopinator"

The Sail and Anchor Trophy for Best WA Brewery: Swan Brewery Co Pty Ltd

The Cryer Malt Trophy for Best Lager Draught: Swan Brewery Co Pty Ltd for "Swan Draught"

The Edith Cowan University Trophy for Best Lager Packaged: Swan Brewery Co Pty Ltd

Beef and Beer Club of Perth Trophy for Best Ale Draught: Feral Brewing Co for "Fanta Pants"

Beer and Brewer Magazine Trophy for Best Ale Packaged: Holgate Brewhouse for "Hopinator"

Hopco Trophy for Best Stout Draught: Nail Brewing for "Nail Stout"

Edith Cowan University Trophy for Best Stout Packaged: Nail Brewing for "Nail Stout"

The Cryer Malt Trophy for Best Wheat Beer Draught: Mash Brewing for "Weizenbock"

The Pall Australia Trophy for Best Wheat Beer Packaged: Old Coast Road Brewery for "Acres of Wheat"

Amateur Awards

James Squire Trophy for Best Amateur Brewer: Brendan O'Sullivan

The Brewmart Trophy for Best Amateur Beer of the Show: Brendan O'Sullivan for "The Sofa King Hoppy"

The T.W.O.C Trophy for Best Lager: Damien Bussmaker for "Damo's Dark"

Beer and Beer Club of Perth Trophy for Best Stout: Andrew Churchman for "Oatmeal Stout"

Brewmart Trophy for Best Ale: Brendan O'Sullivan for "The Sofa King Hoppy"

The Deliverance Trophy for Best Wheat Beer: Brendan O'Sullivan for "Oh, a Weisse guy, eh?"

WA lead the way at 2011 Australian International Beer Awards

2011-05-20T19:03:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all of the West Aussie winners at this week's Australian International Beer Awards in Victoria. Champion Ale to the Swan Valley's Feral Beer with "Hophog", Champion Reduced Alcohol beer to Fremantle's The Monk with "The Monk Mild", Champion Wheat Beer went to Margaret River's Bootleg Brewing with "Sou' West Wheat", and their neighbours, Cowamarup Brewing took out Champion Lager with "Cowaramup Pilsner". To round things off Gage Roads Pils took out the Champion Packaging award.

So from the 17 trophies up for grabs, WA Brewers were far away the most successful exhibiting state, the breakdown is USA- 5; NZ- 1; Belgium- 1; NSW- 1; VIC- 2 (both for the same beer); WA- 5; There was no trophy awarded for 2 of the awards.
For any that have doubted WA continuing to be the leading craft brewers in the country, hopefully the resounding success of exhibitors in this year's comp may help you reassess your opinion!

A full list of results can be found in pdf format from the following link: http://www.beerawards.com/pdfs/AIBA%20Cataloge%202011%20Final%20V.3.pdf

A nice little article mentioning The Brewers Dray. Thanks @goodbeermatt

2011-04-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

A nice little article from the Tiger Airways in flight magazine, Tiger Tales Australia. Especially nice because we get a little mention! Thanks @goodbeermatt !

Spiced Stout Chutney now available to buy from Ironbark Brewery & Billabong Brewing

2011-03-11T14:55:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the guys at Ironbark Brewery (55 Benara Rd, Caversham, Swan Valley, WA). The first venue to stock our Spiced Stout Chutney and Tomato Chilli Hopped Relish in the valley! They've joined our most recent stockist and good friends at Billabong Brewing (72a McCoy St, Myaree) in showcasing our beery delights! Fancy a couple of jars?

*P.S Don't forget that if you're in NSW you can head to Murray's Craft Brewing Co near Port Stephens and not only sample some sensational brews but also purchase our chutney, relish and beer soaps.

The Brewers Dray : 'Beer & Food' article from Australian Appetite magazine Iss 3/2010

2010-09-22T02:55:00.000-07:00

Here's the beer & food article published in Australian Appetite magazine a couple of months back. Few quotes in there from The Brewers Dray! Its a scanned jpeg, so hopefully you can read it without too many drama's.

Oktoberfest at the brewery: The definitive guide to Oktoberfest celebrations in and around Perth for 2010

2010-09-14T01:17:00.000-07:00

Well it's that Oktoberfest time again, so strap on the lederhosen and get ready to swing your stein to the sweet sounds of the oompah, here's your definitive guide to whats on where in the brewpubs of Perth and surrounds:

The Monk Brewery & Kitchen, Freo
In keeping with the traditional Munich timing of the event, The Monk kick off their Oktoberfest festivities with an Opening Party on Saturday 18th September. The German beer will be flowing, the German food will be in excess and your favourite Monk brews will be on tap! Festivities will continue until the 3rd of October, with traditional food specials including Monk made pretzel, purchase your own limited edition commemorative steins, enjoy traditional German bottled beer and The Monk’s own Oktoberfest lager, and for your sonic pleasure on the 18th The Alpen Duo will be entertaining from 1pm – What’s not to love!
E-mail functions@themonk.com.au or speak to staff at the venue for further info.

Salt on the Beach/Black Salt Brewery, North Freo
On Saturday 2nd October, Salt on the Beach host their Oktoberfest party.
Come dressed in your best German outfit and party on at the beach. Prize for best German dancer and best German outfit! $15 Tickets on sale now! Includes entry, festivities and bratwurst bun. Polka dots playing live from 2-5pm : German Dancers from 5-5:30pm : DJ from 6-10pm : German games all day! Party mit uns in Salz, deutschen Stil! 9430 6866 for tix.

Mash Brewing, Swan Valley
Mash Spring Fair
Mash Brewings First and Biggest Event of The Month for the Spring In The Valley Festival 2010. Join them and celebrate SITV Mash Style, Outdoors at the Brewery. Craft Beers & Food and Great Music all weekend. Live Music by The DTs and DJs Cinnamon & Hustler.
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th October. An Over 18s Event. Tickets $10 (Moshtix)
Doors Open 10am. Get there early to avoid queues!
Beer Lover's BBQ Weekend
Entertainment for the whole family!
BBQ Food/Craft Beer/Kid's bouncy castle.
Saturday 16th October: 11am-5pm/Sunday 17th October: 11am-5pm
Free Entry!
Oktoberfest
Celebrate the worlds biggest festival Oktoberfest at Mash Brewing in their themed Beer Garden with German Food, Special Release Beers and DJs Cinnamon, Hustler & Moosh.
Entry includes a souvenir Stein to take home.
Saturday 23 October: 11am-5pm/Sunday 24 October: 11am-5pm
Tickets $10 + Booking Fee (Moshtix)

Feral Brewing, Swan Valley
It's business as usual at the Valley's most awarded brewery throughout October, with the venue in full party mode on the 9th & 10th for annual Spring in the Valley celebrations. Entry to the party zone will set you back $10, with no pre-booking available, so it's first come first served. Get there early to avoid disappointment! For more info give the guys a shout on 9296 4657.

Ironbark Brewery, Swan Valley
Ironbark are celebrating the month long Spring in the Valley event with live music all afternoon across the weekends. Entry is free but bookings are highly recommended as they are already starting to fill up on available spots. Call 9377 4400 for bookings.

Elmars in the Valley, Swan Valley
It's all systems go at Elmars over the whole month of October, here's just a sample of whats going on, check out their website http://www.elmars.com.au/ for all the info.
Shank & Beer - What a great idea
Every Wednesday during October 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th Elmar’s Specialty Dish – a mouth watering Pickled and Smoked Pork Shank with a glass of award winning Elmar’s Beer (regular size) for just $44.90
Senior's Lunch Special
Every Thursday during October (7th, 14th, 21st, 28th) Enjoy a delicious two course lunch for only $17.50 per person, or three courses for $21.50 per person. Bookings Essential.
Brewery Tours
Friday 1st, 15th, 22nd, 29th October at 10am or 4pm (not available during 2nd week, Fri 8th Oct) Experience a Brewery Tour at Elmar’s in the Valley - included a guided tour of the brewery and explanation of the brewing process, plus beer tasting and a smallgoods sample platter for just $15 per person. Bookings Essential
$5 Beer & Bratwurst
Friday 1st, 15th, 22nd, 29th October (not available during 2nd week, Fri 8th Oct) Enjoy three beer tastings and a smallgoods snack basket (to share) for just $5 per person. Available all day Friday, a minimum group size of 4 people applies.
Cocktail Night
Friday 1st, 15th, 22nd, 29th October (not available during 2nd week, Fri 8th Oct) Visit Elmar’s on Friday nights and enjoy Cocktail Specials & Live Music from 6.30 - 9.30pm
Springfest
Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th October Relax and enjoy live music in the Beer Garden at Elmar’s annual Springfest! Open from 10am - 4pm, tickets are $10 and include a regular beer or soft drink, and more…
Beer Garden BBQ
Sun 3rd, & Sun 17th & Sun 31st The BBQ will be sizzling in the Beer Garden from 3pm with a range of mouth watering Elmar’s products, perfect for an afternoon snack! Relax & and enjoy a delicious Bratwurst with live music by Ben Merito.
Art at Elmar's
Sunday 17th October Stop by Elmar’s and browse through an amazing range of local art & craft displays on show in the Beer Garden from 11am - 4pm. The BBQ will be sizzling from 3pm, however lunch reservations are essential.
Oktoberfest
Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th October Experience Oktoberfest right here in the Swan Valley. Open from 11am - 5pm with live music all weekend, entry is FREE, just purchase your glass, or bring one along from last year.

Indian Ocean Brewhouse, Mindarie
The menu at The Indi takes on a distinct German flavour throughout the month of October, and so to does the beer, which will be available in limited edition Indi steins. "Nice Prices" on the Indi beer range from 5pm-7pm daily. Why not pay a visit on the 17th October for the annual 'Mindarie Festival', the biggest day on the Marina calendar with free family entertainment throughout the day! This year's entertainment line up is bigger and better than ever! Catch all your favourite acts and loads of new original creations too...

THE BOAT COURTYARD STAGE
12pm-3pm The Mod Squad
3.30pm-6.30pm Darren Reid & the Soul City Groove!
INDI BREWERY STAGE
12.30-3.30pm Retrofit
4pm-7pm The Rusty Pinto 'Rockabilly' Combo!
KIDZ ZONE! 11-4pm
The amazing Aqua bubble - come and walk on water $10 entry
Bouncy Castle - FREE
Face painting - FREE
The Sand Wizard craft activity
Happy Hoola Ladies - with lollies- and balloons - FREE
Plus the Boardwalk - Surf Rider - FREE

Plus all the creative flair of the variety arts 'n crafts market stalls, fantastic wandering entertainers including the sensational jazz band "The Gumnut Stompers" and a whole lot more... there is no other place to be on the 17th October. More info ph: 9400 1188

Duckstein, Swan Valley
Duckstein Brewery, Swan Valley presents OKTOBERFEST 2010
Oct 16 & 17 and Oct 23 & 24 (as part of Spring in the Valley). The Duckstein Brewery lies in the heart of the Swan Valley on West Swan Rd. and is a fantastic venue if you are looking for a more authentic German Oktoberfest.

Featuring German-style craft beers; Pilsner, Hefeweiss and Festbier. There will also be a range of wines and champagnes to help celebrate this fun day out. Bratwurst & Pretzels are available for hungry revellers.

Live music can be heard throughout the day with traditional music from the 6-piece Dolomiten Polka Band and party music from Alan Stewart’s Band. There will also be traditional dancing and Shuhplattler from the Rhein Donau Club’s Eidelweiss Dancegroup and a cowbell-ringing performance by Echo der Berge. Plus a range of Oktoberfest games and competitions with prizes to be won. Tix are $12+ bf (2% credit charges apply online) available from Heatseeker.com .

There are currently no specific Oktoberfest events listed for other notable local brewpubs/venues Little Creatures, The Old Brewery, The Generous Squire or The Last Drop.

Other events of note:

Rhein Donau Club in Myaree have a month full of full authentic festivities, but bookings are highly recommended at the popular Oktoberfest venue:
October 1st 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio
Tickets: Members $7, Guests $10
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 2nd 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio & Aerotec
Tickets: Members $10, Guests $15
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 8th 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio
Tickets: Members $7, Guests $10
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 9th 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio & Aerotec
Tickets: Members $10, Guests $15
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 15th 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio
Tickets: Members $7, Guests $10
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 16th 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio & Mercury
Tickets: Members $10, Guests $15
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 22nd 2010
Oktoberfest 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio
Tickets: Members $7, Guests $10
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 23rd 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio & Mercury
Tickets: Members $10, Guests $15
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 29th October
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio
Tickets: Members $7, Guests $10
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 30th 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:Dolomiten Trio & Mercury
Tickets: Members $10, Guests $15
Kitchen & Bar Open from 6:30pm
October 31st 2010
Club presents Oktoberfest 2010
Band:The Alpen Duo
Family Day
Entry free
Kitchen & Bar Open from 2:30pm

And finally The Moon & Sixpence in the city are featuring the traditional Bavarian Hofbrau range:

If i've missed off any events, please either add them to this blog post as a comment or post them on our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Brewers-Dray-Boutique-Beer-Explorer/6389058201 .

Beer & Food matching back on the menu in Perth

2010-03-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

Mash Brewing in the Swan Valley are holding their 3rd Annual Beer Dinner on Friday 26th March at the West Swan Rd venue. Cost is $90 pp which includes a 5 course menu and beers included. Brewer Dan Turley has worked closely with Head Chef Melissa to present a fantastic menu matched to the breweries range of naturally brewed, award winning beers.

Back in the city, The Old Brewery on Mounts Bay Road have a couple of events over coming months, details from the venue below:

"Beer & Cheese Matching Evening
Thursday May 20th, 6:30-8:00pm, $45 per guest.
Join our brewer Mark Reilly, and Perth's biggest cheese guru, Nick Bath of Blue Cow Cheese Company (www.bluecow.com.au)for an evening of education, above all - but also fun. Guests receive a plate of six beers matched up to six cheeses, with both experts talking you through each round. The usual format is six cheeses with six tastes (please note, they are not full glasses) of the Brewery's different draught beers, plus one of two extras. It's an exclusive yet rather informal evening where you'll learn a lot, as each speaker talks about their beer and cheese match and welcomes any questions from the group (maximum of 25 people). The events are held like an open forum, with all guests sitting around the one large table. So if you’re an avid cheese and/or beer aficionado, join this very unique occasion to boost your wine and cheese knowledge, meet people and have a few laughs along the way…For bookings and enquiries, please contact Sage at the Brewery - Tel: 9211 8901, or email: functions@theoldbrewery.com.au

Progressive Beef & Beer Dinner
Friday 27th August, 7:00pm, $115 per guest
If you're looking to learn more about the Brewery's beers, then join brewer Mark Reilly for a great evening. You'll enjoy a great menu designed specially be chef Greg Farnan to accompany each of Mark's award-winning draught beers. Mark will speak about the beers and the food matchings..."

Whats pouring in the Swan Valley?

2010-02-22T18:36:00.001-08:00

List of draught beers by brewer from Western Australia's Swan Valley region on Sunday 21st February 2010.

Elmars
Skippy Lite
Pilsner (T)
Hefeweizen (T)
Alt (T)
Schwarzbier (T)
Rauch Dunkel Weizen (T)

Mash
Pilsner
Haze Wheat (T)
Pale (T)
Sgt Peppers Golden Ale (T)
Killer Belgian Dubbel (T)

Duckstein
Kolsch (T)
Hefeweizen (T)
Dunkel (T)
Festbier
Framboise

Feral
Pilsner (T)
Belgian White (T)
HopHog - American IPA (T)
The Runt (HopHog's lil' brother)
Smoked Porter (T)
Razorback - Barley Wine (T)
Dark Funk - Sour Ale
Rust - Belgian Abbey Style (T)

Ironbark
Aussie Pils (T)
Hannans Lager (T)
Warrior Ale (T)
Blokes Brown Ale
Rousies - Oktoberfest style
Golden Wheat
Desert Lime

(T) indicates beers sampled by customers on The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer on 21/2/10.

Beer Soap : On tap NOW!

2010-01-07T00:55:00.000-08:00

After months of planning and trials, we are pleased to announce that our BEER SOAP has finally arrived! The soaps are currently only available to purchase online or on our beer tours, but we hope to soon have them available at a few selected retail sites in the Perth area.

Our range of wash products have been designed with inspiration from the world's finest brews. All natural, hand rolled, no palm oil and chemical free. Clay based, with the addition of hops, malts, essential oils and other natural ingredients to gently cleanse, revive and refresh. Good for the environment and great for your skin!

But you're a beer tour business, what do you know about making soaps?

Good question. Fortunately a great friend of ours has been hand crafting a range of therapeutic natural herbal products for over ten years and it is by working closely with her that we have developed the 'Beer Soap' range. Pilsner, Wheat Beer and IPA are our core sudsy brands, just perfect for the beer lover who has everything!

So what's so special about them?

First up there's the hops. Hops contain many volatile oils that not only give flavour, aroma and bitterness to your beer, but they also sooth the nervous system and aid sleep. The beer specific malt is added as an exfoliant along with a plethora of other natural ingredients to give you a truly unique washing experience.

We've also found the most appealing thing to our potential customers is the lack of chemicals and oils used in the production of these soaps. They are clay based and DO NOT contain Palm Oil and are free of traditional 'Soap' ingredients, minimising harm to our planet.

For more information on the range please take a look at our site.

On tap now, so why not wash one down today!

Does hite beer damage Australian beer market?

2009-12-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

The weekend just passed was a bit of Hite one for me.
No, I didn't misspell that, I'm talking about the beer.
It's been a while since I had come across the leading South Korean lager brand, not that I'm complaining.
On a trip to Seoul a few years ago I'd sworn myself off the uninspiring local brews of Hite and Cass, preferring the excessively priced equally unimpressive euro fizz on offer.

I spotted on a news feed that Hite Brewery were about to increase their prices by 2.6% in their local market and thought to myself 'poor buggers, they've gotta pay more for that!'
Lo and behold, later that day I was having a look around the local 1st Choice Liquor store and what was stacked to the ceiling before me? Pallets of a new "Premium Cleanskin Lager" with cartons priced at $29.99. On closer inspection of the no-brand brew you discover that the beer is produced in Korea by, you've guessed it, the Hite Brewery. And at 4.5% abv it suggests that they are keen to bolster global volumes on their standard draught brand.
As the picture demonstrates, it didn't take well to being introduced to a glass; presented little aroma; little carbonation (past the initial pour) and was a bit on the sweet side.
Don't we produce enough of these bottom end beers ourselves at sufficient quantities to hit the same price point for behemoth liquor barns? OK, it's good for the pocket of those that care not of their beers flavour; freshness or origin. But surely it doesn't do the Australian brewing industry any favours?
*For the record I only purchased the one stubby!

Beer and Brewer Magazine - Recipe Feature

2009-11-23T16:38:00.000-08:00

We recently helped out our friends at Billabong Brewery with a gluten free recipe to pair with their GF Blonde beer. Here's the recipe as featured in the latest edition of Beer & Brewer Magazine in a snazzy Summer Cook Book lift out. Issue 11 Summer 09 is out now throughout Aus & NZ at all good newsagents & breweries. Buy it!

Happy 21st Birthday Clancy's!

2009-10-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

Fremantle institution 'Clancy's Fish Pub' turns 21 next week and they are pulling out all the stops to make sure the celebrations do not go unnoticed. The Cantonment St venue, a staunch supporter of Western Australia's micro brewing industry, have put together an eclectic week of events to herald their coming of age.

The programme begins in earnest on Monday 19th at 6pm, where $60 will get you a seat at the table for a sensational retro dining experience. One of the many previous incarnations of the building was the original Clancy's Tavern, and the menu for the evening will be based on the venue's original 1975 recipes. Sit back and enjoy the Vichysoisse and Rack of Lamb whilst being entertained by The Muddy Duck Bush Band.

Tuesday see's a change of pace with the 'All Day Freo Pub Quiz'. The quiz is being held over four sessions throughout the day (12-1.30/2.30-4/5-6.30/7.30-9.45) with an entry fee of $10 (incl your 1st glass of Coopers). Proceeds of the daytime sessions go to local Freo charities.

Between 5 and 9 on Wednesday 21st they host 'The Great BBQ Cook Off' between local pubs and restaurants where they encourage you to come down and taste the creations. Heritage, sustainability and development in Fremantle are the topics up for debate from 7pm on Thursday. And on Friday the official 21st Birthday Party takes place. Big band sounds, poets, performers and more will wow you in whats sure to be an unmissable night. $21 tickets include finger food.

Princess May Park comes alive on the Saturday with a real carnival atmosphere, heaps of market stalls, great food, beer and wine tastings and live music on the big stage. $21's will get you in. And to close the week of festivities on Sunday 25th a free family fun day will be held in the park from 12-6.30, followed by the closing party featuring Clancy's favourites 'The Zydecats' and a host of friends who will perform three big sets from 6.30pm onwards, $15 entry.

Best of luck for one of the most fantastic pubs you'll find in WA, always great beer and service. In a port city blessed with brewing hotspots, Clancy's is a must visit if you want to get a real flavour of Freo.

Mash Beer Dinner - Friday 26th June

2009-06-24T23:56:00.000-07:00

If the excitement of WA Beer week left you yearning for more, then a few tickets still remain for the annual Mash beer dinner this Friday night - latest news and details from the Swan Valley brewer:

"Mash Eisbock and Mash Baltic Porter, two new beers that are now on tap at our Swan Valley venue and will be on tap in Bunbury in the next weeks, ended up winning their categories : Eisbock won one of only 7 Gold medals as well as winning the trophy for Best Lager Draught, whilst Baltic Porter was chosen as the Best Stout Draught as well as winning one of the 14 Silver medals.

Two other beers also won medals, Mash Chocolate Beer also winning a Silver medal and Mash Black winning yet another award, this time a Bronze medal. This medal means Black has won medals twice in both the Australian International Beer Awards (Silver in 2007, Gold in 2008 and Best Lager Draught 2008) and the Perth Royal Show Beer Awards (Silver in 2008 and Bronze in 2009)!

If you don’t know about it yet, the best chance this year to enjoy Mash’s handcrafted award-winning naturally brewed beers paired with some fabulous cooking is on Friday the 26th of June, when we’ll be hosting our 2nd annual Beer Dinner. Head Brewer Dan and Executive Head Chef Melissa have matched 5 courses of fabulous modern Australian cooking with 6 superb ales and lagers, with a Gin Gin fillet mignon paired with Mash Eisbock as the pièce de résistance.

The meal will feature talks by Dan and Melissa about their experience in preparing the Beer Dinner as well as their work at Mash. Also during the evening, diners will be invited to take part in a beer quiz and taste the full range of Mash Beers: Pale, Honey Pils, Haze, Mex, Summer Lager, Black, Eisbock, Baltic Porter, Chocolate Beer and Celebration Ale, plus Mash’s own Crush cider. It’ll be a fun and entertaining evening, great for beer lovers and food lovers as well as those who don’t know they’re beer and food fans yet!"

For the full menu click here.

2009 Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Results

2009-06-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

Coinciding with WA Beer Week, results from the Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show for amateur and commercial brewers are in, and congratulations are due to Mal Secourable at Colonial Brewing who have taken out the award for best commercial beer and best West Australian beer at the show, with their always excellent Kolsch. Full results are:

TROPHY RESULTS

TROPHIES - COMMERCIAL SECTION
THE EDITH COWAN UNIVERSITY TROPHY
Best Lager Packaged. Won By: Redoak Rauch
THE WWW.MICROBREWING.COM.AU TROPHY
Best Lager Draught. Won By: Mash Eisbock
THE BAIRDS MALT TROPHY
Best Ale Packaged. Won By: Holgate Brewhouse E.S.B
THE BARRETT BURSTON TROPHY
Best Ale Draught. Won By: Colonial Brewing Kolsch
THE EDITH COWAN UNIVERSITY TROPHY
Best Stout Packaged. Won By: Billabong Porter
THE HOPCO TROPHY
Best Stout Draught. Won By: Mash Baltic Porter
THE WEYERMANN TROPHY
Best Wheat Beer Packaged. Won By: Redoak Framboise Froment
THE BEER AND BREWER MAGAZINE TROPHY
Best Wheat Beer Draught. Won By: Matilda Bay Redback Original

Trophies were not awarded in the reduced alcohol or gluten free sections.

TROPHIES - AMATEUR SECTION
THE T.W.O.C. TROPHY FOR BEST LAGER
Won By: Asher Mitchell, German Pilsner
THE BREWMART TROPHY FOR BEST ALE
Won By: Gryphon Brewing Services, English Best Bitter
THE WYEAST TROPHY FOR BEST STOUT
Won By: Paul Marcos, Robust Porter
THE BETTER BOTTLE TROPHY FOR BEST REDUCED ALCOHOL BEER
Won By: Paul Hyatt, English Mild
THE DELIVERANCE TROPHY FOR BEST WHEAT BEER
Won By: Amphion Brewing, Berliner Weisse

SPECIAL TROPHIES: COMMERCIAL AND AMATEUR SECTIONS
The Beer and Brewer Magazine Trophy for Best Amateur Brewer
Won By: Gryphon Brewing Services
The Morish Nuts Trophy for Best Amateur Beer of the Show
Won By: Gryphon Brewing Services, English Best Bitter
The Adelphi Steak House & Bar – Parmelia Hilton Trophy for Champion
Commercial Brewery
Won By: Matilda Bay Brewing Company
The Cryer Malt Trophy for Best Commercial Beer of the Show
Won By: Colonial Brewing Company, Colonial Kolsch
Premiers Trophy (on behalf of the Government of Western Australia) for the
Best Western Australia Beer of the Show
Won By: Colonial Brewing Company, Colonial Kolsch

Congratulations to all the winners, especially pleasing to see Mash from the Swan Valley amongst the gongs as they are one of the excellent venues that we visit on our brewery tours!

Beery Apple Fritters: Celebrating WA Beer Week

2009-06-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

Our 7th and final entry in our ‘cooking with beer’ series celebrating WA beer week, features an easy yet delicious dessert. Our beery apple fritters are best served alongside your favourite vanilla ice cream. Matso’s Ginger Beer was used, however, it also works fantastically for coeliacs using Gluten Free flours and Billabong Ginger Beer.

Beery Apple Fritters
Ingredients:
- 4 Granny smith apples
- 1 ¼ cups Ginger beer (Matso’s/Billabong) – Use cold
- 1 ½ cups Corn flour (sifted)
- 1 cup Plain flour (sifted)
- 2 tbsp Icing sugar
- 1 tsp All spice
- Canola oil for deep frying
- Extra icing/castor sugar for dusting (optional)

1. Pre-heat oil to 180°C.
2. Core and peel apples, then cut into 8’s. Toss with half cup of corn flour and stand for 1 minute.
3. To make batter, alternate remaining sifted flours with ginger beer, whisking well between each addition. Make sure it is lump free, add sugar and spice.
4. Dip the apple pieces into the thick batter then transfer to the hot oil and fry in batches until they become golden in colour and begin to float.
5. Remove from oil, drain on absorbent paper, and if required, dust with extra sugar whilst still hot. Serve with ice cream.

Keep an eye on the blog later in the day for results from the 2009 Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show plus some updates on beery dinners in the Perth region. The closing event for WA beer week happens this Saturday night (6.30pm) at Mad Monk in Fremantle, where the 'Grand Beer Dinner' will be held. You might be lucky enough to score one of the last few spots by contacting jenna@madmonk.com.au, tickets are $75 for the 10 beer, five course extravaganza.

Beery Mashed Potato: Celebrating WA Beer Week

2009-06-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

Day 6 in our 'cooking with beer' series is all about comfort on a cold wet day (perfect for Perth today!), our beery mashed potato recipe aptly features Swan Valley brewer Mash, and their pale ale. A perfect accompaniment for a few snags and gravy or a juicy rare steak. Tonight is the Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Awards Dinner, where the gongs will be handed out to the brightest and best amongst 17 different categories. Best of luck to all West Aussie brewers!!

Beery Mashed Potato (Serves 4)
Ingredients:
- 600g new potatoes (washed and cut into small pieces, peeling optional)
- 1 med red onion (finely chopped)
- 50g black olives (drained & finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 375ml Mash Pale Ale or Billabong A.P.A (for GF option)
- 1 med red capsicum (finely chopped – if you choose to omit, then replace with sweet substitute, ie a little sugar or sun dried tomato)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp basil (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp parmesan (grated)
- 4 spring onions (finely chopped)
- ¼ tsp salt & cracked pepper
- 1 tbsp melted butter or e.v.o.o (optional)

1. Boil potatoes in the beer in a small saucepan – add a little water to cover if required. Cook with lid on, on a low heat until tender.
2. While potatoes are cooking sauté onions and basil with e.v.o.o over a low heat until translucent.
3. Add garlic and capsicum and continue to cook until aromatic. Add olives and spring onions and continue cooking for another minute.
4. Drain (there may not be much liquid left) and mash potatoes with a tablespoon of butter/e.v.o.o and parmesan. Add remaining ingredients.
5. The recipe is quite volumous, so you have the option to finish the mash to your taste – warmed milk or for a fluffier texture, cream, both work.

Corned Beef in Beer: Celebrating WA Beer Week

2009-06-10T00:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to day 5 of WA beer week, not only is it the final day of judging for the 2009 Perth Royal Beer Show, but also recipe #5 in our week long 'cooking with beer' series. Today we have an interesting twist on an Aussie classic, corned beef (or silverside). Any beer can be used depending on your preference. We chose a stout, which gives a rich, sweet finish that balances with the salty beef perfectly.

Corned Beef (serves 4-6)
Ingredients:
- 2 kg corned silverside (fat removed)
- 375 ml stout (@ room temp)
- 500g onions (chopped small)
- 500g carrots (chopped small)
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ cup of spiced malt vinegar
- 2 star anise
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds (yellow)
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- ½ tbsp peppercorns

1. Place corned beef in a heavy based large saucepan, then add remaining ingredients.
2. If the beer does not cover the beef, then add water to ensure it is fully submerged.
3. Bring gently to the boil, then cover and simmer on a low heat for approx 2½-3 hours. You may need to add more water during cooking. (Check tenderness with a carving fork).
4. Remove the beef from the stock and strain liquid. This stock can be used to cook your veg in (for a totally beery dinner!).
5. Slice beef and serve with a mustard & cheese white sauce.

Throughout the week long celebration of Western Australian brewing we will post the daily events, results and a 'cooking with beer' recipe for your delictation. So please pop back daily to see whats happening and try and get out & about to support your local brewers. If you cant support them this week, then don't forget that you can take part in a celebration of WA brewing every week with a trip on The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer, and whats more, all new tour bookings for June & July made during WA beer week will be entitled to a
WHOPPING 20% DISCOUNT !
(terms & conditions apply-contact us for details)

WA Beer Week Events: Wednesday 10th June

2009-06-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

The third and final FREE consumer event for WA Beer Week is being held later today in Perth at the Parmelia Hilton hotel. The Adelphi Steakhouse plays host to the Western Australian Brewers Association who have organised a series of beer and food matching events showcasing some of the sensational beers from WA craft brewers. Today's event runs from 5.30pm-7pm and is especially for the ladies, being hosted by Sail & Anchor head brewer, Fiona Geraty - who will tell her story about beer and brewing. So if your'e working in Perth today, hang around in town a bit later and head on down to Mill St (just off St Georges Terrace) and help celebrate all that is great and good about beer in the west.

Keep an eye on the blog later in the day where we continue our celebration of Western Australian brewing when we will post day 5 of our 'cooking with beer' series. So please pop back to see whats happening and if you can, try and get out & about to support your local brewers. If you cant support them this week, then don't forget that you can take part in a celebration of WA brewing every week with a trip on The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer, and whats more, all new tour bookings for June & July made during WA beer week will be entitled to a WHOPPING 20% DISCOUNT ! (terms & conditions apply-contact us for details)

Polenta Crusted Stuffed Olives: Celebrating WA beer week

2009-06-08T23:46:00.000-07:00

Day four in our week long series of 'cooking with beer' recipes in celebration of beer week here in WA. This one is a sensational tasty snack that is at its best when enjoyed with a sessionable beer. Although we made it with Feral Belgian White, Billabong A.P.A can be substituted for coeliacs. And if you’re not a fan of smoked cheese, then any semi-hard cheese will suffice.

Polenta Crusted Stuffed Olives
Ingredients:
- 12 mammoth green olives (pitted)
- 100g smoked cheese (small pieces)
- 1 cup beer Feral White (or Billabong A.P.A for GF)
- ½ cup plain flour or GF plain flour (sifted)
- 1 cup cornflour (sifted)
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 cup fine polenta meal
- 500ml olive oil or grapeseed oil (for frying)
- Pinch salt

1. Pre-heat oven to 160°C.
2. In a large bowl make a batter with beer, pepper, plain flour and half of the corn flour. Alternating & whisking well between each addition. Allow to rest. This is a very thick batter that creates a great crust on the olive.
3. Insert cheese pieces into cavity of olive. You will need to get your fingers dirty for this one and make sure that the cheese is well stuffed inside the olive.
4. Toss olives in remaining corn flour, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
5. Roll olives in thick batter, then roll in the polenta meal. Gently roll each olive between your palms to firmly attach the crust.
6. Gently place the prepared olives in hot oil and fry until golden (should be a about 4 mins).
7. Remove from oil, drain on a paper towel and sprinkle with a little salt whilst hot.

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WA Beer Week Events: Tuesday 9th June

2009-06-08T19:14:00.000-07:00

WA beer week's second FREE consumer event is being held today in Perth at the Parmelia Hilton hotel. The Adelphi Steakhouse plays host to the Western Australian Brewers Association who have organised a series of beer and food matching events showcasing some of the sensational beers from WA craft brewers. Today's event runs from 5.30pm-7pm and highlights the synergy of beer and chocolate. So if your'e working in Perth today, hang around in town a bit later and head on down to Mill St (just off St Georges Terrace) and help celebrate all that is great and good about beer in the west.

Keep an eye on the blog later in the day where we continue our celebration of Western Australian brewing when we will post day 4 of our 'cooking with beer' series. So please pop back to see whats happening and if you can, try and get out & about to support your local brewers. If you cant support them this week, then don't forget that you can take part in a celebration of WA brewing every week with a trip on The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer, and whats more, all new tour bookings for June & July made during WA beer week will be entitled to a WHOPPING 20% DISCOUNT ! (terms & conditions apply-contact us for details)

Cherry and Peanut Cookies: Celebrating WA beer week

2009-06-08T01:58:00.000-07:00

Day 3 of WA beer week and it's time for the third of our cooking with beer features in homage to the WA craft brewing scene. Todays offering is another yummy simple little recipe, and if you really want to impress the guests, you can half dip them in melted white chocolate and let them set. Devine!
Cherry & Peanut Cookies (Serves 30)
Ingredients:
- 125g unsalted butter (cubed and @ room temp) - 4 ½ tbsp castor sugar
- 1 lg egg
- 2 cups plain flour (sifted) or gluten free plain flour
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1/3 cup beer (Beez Neez or Billabong Blonde work well) @ room temp.
- ¾ cup glace cherries (chopped)
- 1/3 cup unsalted peanuts (chopped)
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp cinnamon

1. Pre-heat oven to 180°C
2. Cream butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light, pale and fluffy.
3. Add eggs, beat well.
4. Mix sifted ingredients , spices and nuts together in a separate bowl.
5. Alternate adding beer, cherries & sifted ingredients to butter mixture. Mix well after each addition to ensure there are no lumps.
6. Cover and refrigerate for 30 mins.
7. Shape into small balls and arrange on a greased baking tray, flatten lightly with a fork.
8. Bake in a moderate oven for 15 mins or until golden.

WA Beer Week Event: Monday 8th June

2009-06-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

WA beer week kicks off in earnest today, with the first of three FREE consumer events to be held in Perth at the Parmelia Hilton hotel. The Adelphi Steakhouse plays host to the Western Australian Brewers Association who have organised a series of beer and food matching events showcasing some of the sensational beers from WA craft brewers.
Todays event runs from 5.30pm-7pm and highlights the synergy of beer and cheese.
So if your'e working in Perth today, hang around in town a bit later and head on down to Mill St (just off St Georges Terrace) and help celebrate all that is great and good about beer in the west.

Keep an eye on the blog later in the day where we continue our celebration of Western Australian brewing when we will post day 3 of our 'cooking with beer' series. So please pop back to see whats happening and if you can, try and get out & about to support your local brewers. If you cant support them this week, then don't forget that you can take part in a celebration of WA brewing every week with a trip on The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer, and whats more, all new tour bookings for June & July made during WA beer week will be entitled to a WHOPPING 20% DISCOUNT ! (terms & conditions apply-contact us for details)

The Great Beery Breakfast Recipe: Celebrating WA beer week

2009-06-05T02:43:00.000-07:00

Day two of WA beer week, the head is a little sore and although it's past midday it's time for a lazy sunday morning breakfast. If you want to be hardcore and pair it up with a breakfast beer, then I think there is nothing better than a crisp and zingy pilsner, Bootleg Brewery's Wils Pils should do nicely. For a start you can use the beer bread from yesterday's recipe. Chunky pieces of toast and of course some nice crispy bacon would be great to team up with todays two beery recipes. Firstly there's the Beer Poached Eggs, about as easy as it gets when cooking with beer! You can get as extreme as you like with your flavours. We erred on the side of caution and went with a lighter style of beer, using Matso’s Monsoonal Blonde (we also used Billabong’s Blonde as a Gluten Free option). There is no need to add any vinegar to the poaching liquor – as the beer holds the egg together nicely.

Ingredients:
- 375 ml Blonde beer
- 8 eggs
- Pinch of salt

1. Heat beer and salt to a simmer in a small pan.
2. Crack egg into bowl and check freshness.
3. Slide eggs gently into simmering beer – 2 at a time. Gently spoon the beer over the top of the egg to assist in cooking the yolk.
4. Remove from pan, drain excess liquid and serve.
Dynamite Beer Beans
The second component is great as a pasta sauce or to make your own homemade baked beans with a twist. Simply add 2 x 400g tins of cooked cannelini beans (or soak some of the bagged variety overnight and cook until tender).
Ingredients:
- 500g ripe tomatoes (washed & cut in ½)
- 1 med red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup Little Creatures Pale Ale (or Billabong A.P.A for GF option) @ room temp.
- ½ cup malt vinegar
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 lg garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp hot english mustard
- 1 tsp cayenne powder or paprika (if preferred milder)
- ¼ tsp salt & cracked black pepper

1. Pre-heat grill to 220°C. Place tomatoes on a baking tray, cut side up and roast under grill until caramelized (not burnt).
2. On a medium heat, sweat off the onions in a heavy based pan until translucent. Add mustard seeds and garlic – cook on a low heat until seeds start to pop.
3. Add the remaining ingredients and cook for 15 minutes on a low heat.
4. Blend with a stick blender until desired consistency is achieved. The sauce can be left chunky or blended smooth with the addition of a little hot water.

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Cheese & Onion Beer Bread Recipe : Celebrating WA Beer Week

2009-06-05T02:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the launch of Western Australian Beer Week, and to do our bit in celebrating all that is good and great about WA brewing we are publishing a new recipe each day, featuring a WA beer in the mix. Day one is a cheese & onion beer bread recipe, that, like all our recipes this week also has a gluten free alternative for Coeliacs out there, the chef insists on it!
Recipe of the Day
Cheese & Onion Beer Bread (Serves 4)
Remarkably easy to knock together and incredibly satisfying to tuck into. The final product is a hearty and wholesome, delicious beer bread, quite dense with a crunchy, crispy crust. The recipe is very versatile too and open to experimentation – just remember not to add too much moisture. It will work equally well as a desert bread using ginger beer, ramp up the spice content and add some dried fruit. Check out the bottom of the recipe for the Gluten Free alternative(see pic), this version was quite a healthy option and made to exactly the same principles as the main recipe.

Ingredients:
- 3 cups strong plain flour
- 2½ tsp baking powder (sifted)
- ½ tsp salt & cracked pepper
- ½ cup crispy fried onions (crushed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese (grated)
- 355ml Feral Hop Hog (@ room temp)

NB. You can use your beer of choice (check out the difference in using a wheat beer and a stout); Fried onions are available from all Asian supermarkets).

1. Pre-heat oven to 220°C. Grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf tin.
2. In a large mixing bowl combine all the dry ingredients together with the parmesan.
3. Make a well in the centre of the mix then add the beer in stages, working the mixture with a butter knife between each addition (Do not use flat beer as the carbonation is a key element).
4. Towards the end the dough may need a little assistance coming together with your hands, but do not overwork it.
5. Spoon the mix into the loaf tin and bake for 50-60 minutes on a tray in the middle of the oven.
6. Remove from the oven when browned on top, then insert a skewer into the centre to assess if dough in middle is fully cooked (it may need a few more minutes). Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Gluten Free Beer Bread
Most gluten free breads out there are really crumbly and break apart, whilst this bread holds together well and can be sliced thinly and frozen.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups gluten free plain flour (sifted)
- 1 cup soy flour (sifted)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 tbsp linseed meal
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 355ml Billabong Australias Pale Ale (@ room temp)

Throughout the week long celebration of Western Australian brewing we will post the daily events, results and a 'cooking with beer' recipe for your delictation. So please pop back daily to see whats happening and try and get out & about to support your local brewers. If you cant support them this week, then don't forget that you can take part in a celebration of WA brewing every week with a trip on The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer, and whats more, all new tour bookings for June & July made during WA beer week will be entitled to a
WHOPPING 20% DISCOUNT !
(terms & conditions apply-contact us for details)

Western Australian Beer Week 2009 : Event Listing

2009-05-27T02:46:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow see's the launch of Western Australian Beer Week for 2009, a week long celebration(Saturday 6th to Friday 12th June) of all things beer in WA. The event is organised by members of the Western Australian Brewers Association (http://www.waba.orga.au/), with the simple aim of honouring the beer, food, and people of the craft breweries of Western Australia.
The celebration of brewing coincides with the 2009 Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show. Where a team of expert judges come together to grade a vast number of beers from both commercial and amateur brewers. All battling it out for seventeen different class trophies and three overall champion trophies. Free consumer tastings are being hosted by WABA from Monday to Wednesday at the Adelphi Steak House from 5.30 - 7, where the focus is on matching up three different local beers with a variety of gourmet delights. Some new brews have been inspired with Bootleg Brewery will releasing two new beers a Double West Indian Pale Ale @ 5.7% called Epic Ale and a Barleywine at 9.7 % called The Grandfather Part 2. Indian Ocean Brewing Co. have got two brand new beers hitting the taps – the Indi Vanilla Milk Stout and The Indi Kriek. Both beers will be pouring as of the 6th June to coincide with WA Beer Week.

We've been busy in the kitchen recently working on a few ideas and recipes using beer as a major component, and will be posting the results throughout WA Beer Week, so please do come back through the week to get some tasty beery recipes.

Full Events Listing

Saturday June 6th: Trade & Press launch event (invitation only), Moondyne Joes, Fremantle.

Monday June 8th:
Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Judging: 9-5 RAS Showgrounds.
Beer and Cheese Tasting (3 beers and 3 cheeses) at the Adelphi Steak House 5:30-7
Come down and enjoy a supurb matching of three World Class Beers and three hand picked cheeses at The Adelphi Steakhouse.
Last Drop Wheat Beer // Fried goats cheese on raspberry compote
Feral Hophog // Edam cheese on toasted sourdough with chili relish
Gage Roads Saison and Triple // Saffron and vanilla beans poached quince with a blue cheese gratin

Tuesday June 9th:
Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Judging: 9-5 RAS Showgrounds.
Beer and Chocolate Tasting (3 beers and 3 chocolates) at the Adelphi Steak House 5:30-7
Come join us for an evening of three perfectly paired sets of beer and Chocolate.
Duckstein Dopplebock // Milk chocolate truffle with Grand Marnier
Sail and Anchor Xocoatl Porter // Mississippi dark chocolate brownie
Nail Stout // Bitter chocolate mousse with raspberry

Wednesday June 10th:
Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Judging: 9-5 RAS Showgrounds.
Beauty and Beer Tasting (3 beers with Oysters, Cheese, and Chocolate) at the Adelphi Steak House 5:30-7.
This is a special female-focused event. Join Fiona Geraty, Head Brewer of Fremantle's famous Sail and Anchor Pub Brewery as she tells her story about beer and brewing at This very special Beauty and Beer Tasting. Specially designed for those women who love a quality craft beer, the evening will see three craft beers superbly paired with Oysters, Cheese, and Chocolate.
Colonial Kolsch // Oysters topped with Colonial Kolsch beer icecream
Last Drop Wheat Beer // Edam cheese on toasted sourdough with apple cinnamon relish
Sail and Anchor Xocoatl Porter // Mississippi dark chocolate brownie

Thursday June 11th:
Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Awards Dinner. Parmelia Hilton, 7 for 7:30. This is expected to be an exclusive industry event, but tickets may be offered to the public if available. Limited to 150 persons. $75 per ticket.

Friday June 12th:
Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show Exhibitors Tasting.
All breweries entering their beers into the competition are invited. 2-4pm.
Trade tasting 1:30-2 at the RAS Showgrounds, Jim Webster building.

Saturday, June 13th.WA Beer Week Closing Event:
The Grand Beer Dinner @Madmonk Fremantle.

An evening of indulgence in eight Western Australian hand crafted beers, matched with four courses of delectable cuisine. Arrivals from 6:30 for a 7:00pm start. Tickets $75, tables of 4,6,8 or 10, Limited to strictly 100 places. Tickets available by contacting Jenna Carpenter at jenna@madmonk.com.au before June 10th.

Cowaramup Brewing & Mash both have dinners coming up, you need to get in quick with the south west venue to get a limited spot, and i'll post details of the Mash event soon. If you cant make it to one of the events then the lovely people at the International Beer Shop in Leederville have got the following great offers on for local beers. By supporting your local brewers you can gain greater choice, fresher beer, lower your carbon footprint and of course help stimulate your local economy:

WA Craft Beer Week Special
"From June 6-14, we will be offering discounts on WA Craft Beer:
10% off any mixed 6 pack of WA Beer;
10% off any mixed carton (made of 6 packs); or
15% off any mixed carton (made of mixed singles).
This week is all about promoting WA beer, so come down and have a chat - we d love to point everyone in the direction of some fantastic local beers."

Interviews with the brewers (JD Wetherspoon International Real Ale festival)

2009-05-25T02:44:00.000-07:00

Finishing earlier this month, UK pubchain JD Wetherspoons held an international real ale festival throughout its estate of 600 odd pubs. Part of the festival plan involves international brewers being invited to the UK to brew an exclusive beer for the festival. Banks's; Caledonian; Everards & Marston's all open the brewery gates to the selected few - who are encouraged to bring unique and distinctive tastes from their homelands and push the boundaries of cask conditioned real ale. Please find links below to pdf copies of interviews with this years brewers, as taken from the JD Wetherspoon official beer festival magazine.

Richard Adamson, Barons Brewing Co, Australia

Tonya Cornett, Bend Brewing Co, USA

Henk Oexman, Heineken, Holland

Tapio Kangas-Heiska, Sinebrychoff, Finland

Alan Hansen, Yukon Brewing Company, Canada

Luke Nicholas, Epic Brewing Company, New Zealand

Perth & WA Beer and Brewing Updates

2009-05-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well, where do I start, it's been a while since i've given a general update on what's happening in and around Perth, so with WA Beer Week coming up next month, what better time. Palmyra brewer Gage Roads, who recently ended their Australia wide distribution deal with VOK, are set to welcome supermarket giant Woolworths into their business. Subject to terms and shareholder approval in late June, Woolworths will acquire a 25% stake in the brewing business that started up in 2005, through a subscription agreement of upto $1.9million. Gage Roads have been trying on all angles to build sales and brand presence with a core range (Lager, IPA, Pils) being recently supplemented by low carb 'Kutt'; premium Ale 'Wahoo'; a cider 'Blue Angel' and seasonal beers such as 'London Best'. But they just don't quite seem to be hitting the mark. The beers are fine, at times really good, but taps on bars arent as widespread as perhaps they could be (especially in the brewers home town), and pricing in bottleshops is at a premium. For consumers in WA it is sometimes hard to figure why an imported carton of a respectable international brand can be purchased cheaper than something brewed 2 kms away.
Well that could be set to change too. As part of the deal, Woolworths will undertake to purchase 350,000 cases of 'own label' beer annually. It seems that the recent rise of 'own label' supermarket brands isnt just restricted to beans and tomato sauce, so expect to see a six pack of 'Woolies Wheat Beer' on the shelf of your local BWS or Dan Murphy's in the not too distant future.
Salt on the Beach, formerly known as the Oyster Bar, down at Port Beach in North Freo now have a 'nano' brewery up and running in the courtyard. Black Salt Brewery, intend to have upto four in house brews available at any one time. I managed to get down there yesterday arvo, unfortunately the only in house brew available was the Kolsch, supplemented by James Squire Golden. Must have been a busy weekend. The Kolsch was enjoyable, but to my mind, an overly bitter finish for the style - even quite spicy, but not at all unpleasant for a huge hop head. I look forward to heading there in the future to have a wider sample of the range. Out in the Swan Valley, Mash are currently serving a Jailhouse Chilli alongside a new seasonal 'Chocolate Ale' as their beer and food match for May. Adding to the seasonal selection is the 'Celebration Ale' a spiced golden ale, brewed in celebration of a new arrival for one of the brewing team. All conquering Feral are serving up a real gem with their 11.5% Russian Imperial Stout, aptly monikered 'Boris' and the AIBA 2009 Champion Ale, Hop Hog, once again proved to be a firm favourite with the punters on a recent beer tour. As too was the days closing beer, Ironbark's 'Debilitator' - now available to take away in 500ml bottles. In the south west Cowaramup Brewing are getting set to hold their 3rd annual beer dinner on Saturday 20th June. Jeremy Good will be assisted by Feral's Brendan Varis and master brewer Hugh Dunn, who will entertain and inform on beers matched to a sumptuous 3 course menu. Tickets are very limited, costing $90pp and include your drinks for the evening - give them a call on 08 9755 5822 to book. A little further down the road, Margaret River's Bootleg Brewery are giving everyone good reason to drop in during the upcoming long weekend with a new winter menu and at least one new seasonal brew set to be pouring. A 5.8% Double West-Indian Pale Ale, known as Epic Ale brewed with Australian Galaxy hops. You may also be able to grab a taste of 'The Grandfather Part II', which they state is "going to be bigger and better" than the original incarnation from a couple of years back. "Fermented in cabernet barrels from Moss Brothers Winery, the beer will be dry-hopped with freshly picked New Zealand Hop flowers. The Grandfather Part II will, once again, be higher than 9%." Back in Perth, I'm still none the wiser on the rumoured location of a James Squire Brewhouse - Shafto Lane is still out there, and the location would be good for the suits and for those wishing to crawl around from the Belgian Beer Cafe. 8th June sees the national launch of seasonal ale, Hop Thief - now in its third year.
Tony Jones, Chief Brewer reveals: “The hops we are using to create the latest version of Hop Thief are a combination of the well established Australian variety Pride of Ringwood, which is known primarily as a bittering hop, and the locally-bred aroma variety known as Southern Hallertau.
“We have used hop flowers secured fresh from the 2009 Tasmanian harvest rather than using the commonly available pellet form and add them late in the fermentation process so we capture the floral flavours otherwise lost during boiling.”
Jones explains the fermentation process: “Instead of using a hop back which runs hot wort over the hop flowers, the team at the Malt Shovel Brewery will be using an original process to infuse the hops by circulating beer late in the fermentation, over the hops and back into the vessel. The piece of equipment they will be using to carry out the process has been affectionately dubbed the ‘Hopperator’”.
James Squire’s Hop Thief Ale is best enjoyed with spicy and flavoursome meat dishes or strong cheeses to balance out the bitterness of the beer – making it perfect for savouring on a cold winter’s night.

The beer will be available at a rrp of $57.99 per carton & $18.99 per 6 pack .

Further afield, Little Creatures Victorian cousin, White Rabbit, Healesville has now opened its doors and should now be well on their way to trial brew #4. West Aussie Head Brewer, Dean Mcleod (formerly Colonial Brewing & Little Creatures) is working with open fermenters in the brewhouse, english ale yeast strains and all australian hops in a quest to perfect a 5.2%abv "nut brown dark ale" where "the beer delivers mouth filling malt characters, lively fruit driven complexity, a reassuring bitterness, all of which congregates into a delightful balance of flavour". Expect to see it as a guest beer at either Fremantle or Melbourne venues soon - likewise beers from Byron Bay's relatively new brewer Stone & Wood (part owned by former Matilda Bay brewer, Brad Rogers) may make an appearance, as Little World Beverages, parent company to Little Creatures, recently acquired a 20% stake in the new venture. Tasmania's Moorilla Brewery are due to launch their 2009 Imperial Stout, with a limited availability of just 1515 bottles. The 330ml bottles are $25 each or $600 for the 24pk - so I might have to give this one a miss!!
In the Hunter Valley, NSW, Bluetongue Brewery have announced the construction of a new $120 million brewery, with building to begin next month - hoping to be done and dusted by March 2010. Bluetongue (who only started in 2003) are of course now owned by Coca Cola Amital, who are causing further speculation on greater consolidation in the industry by being linked to a possible merger with #1 brewer, Fosters. CCA who distribute the SABMiller portfolio in Australia (Castle, MGD, Pilsner Urquell etc) were mooted to be a takeover target for #2 brewer, Lion Nathan not too long back - before they themselves were approached for a buyout from Japan's Kirin Holdings. That looks set to be finalised soon. The other twist in the plot is that Kirin's main rival back home, Asahi, last month completed the purchase of Schweppes Australia from Cadbury (after CCA declined the option) - don't be surprised if we see them take a dip into the Aussie beer market sooner rather than later.

WA Beer Week 2009 : List of events later this week and keep an eye out for our beer recipe a day throughout the celebration of Western Australian brewing, June 6th-14th.

Perth's new breweries update

2009-04-17T17:25:00.000-07:00

News of council planning hold ups dog the new 'Northbridge Brewing Company', as revised plans tried to sidestep disabled access laws by renaming an upstairs trading area. Clearview Investments Group, who were given the green light on planning in January, have a hit a stumbling block by omitting an elevator fromplans, providing disabled access to a top floor alfresco area (they basically changed the name from a 'skydeck al fresco function room' to the 'skydeck al fresco area'), hence falling foul of Western Australia's disability laws. A bit of cost cutting that will surely have to go back to the drawing board. Hopefully there won't be any cost cutting when it comes to the brews, as former Old Swan brewer and local brewing identity Hugh Dunn oversees operations.

And as speculated in this blog back in October last year, Why has Chuck Hahn been spending so much time in Perth? Well, I'm simply putting two and two together, but Chuck recently intimated in a chat with UK beer writer Roger Protz that Perth was on the radar for a James Squire Brewhouse. If you have visited the Sydney incarnation at King St Wharf, then you know that the format works particularly well on the water - and this is where the other part of the maths comes in. Back in June 08 Perth City Council approved plans for an enviromentally friendly timber built micro-brewery, function room, restaurant & supper club, as part of the newly redeveloped parkland at Point Fraser, close to Heirisson Island and the Burswood casino complex. On the banks of the Swan River, the new site is hoped to be open some time later this year or early 2010 - and i'll bet my bottom dollar that the 'James Squire' signs will be hanging over the door!

Quick Price Survey - How does Perth stack up on beer prices?

2009-04-14T21:11:00.000-07:00

We often complain about the price of beer here in Perth. Some blame the government, others the lack of Pokie revenue, hell, some of you may even blame the greedy licensees!
Well here is a snap poll on current pricing on two of the worlds uber brands, Heineken & Corona, by no means my first choices out of the party esky, but definitely two beers available the world over.

Bar Great Harry, 280 Smith St, Brooklyn, New York City, USA
Heineken (12oz) = $5 US = $7 AUD
Corona (12oz) = $5 US = $7 AUD

Milano Pizzeria, V Aleji 571, Prague 10, Czech Republic
Heineken (.33ltr) = 45Kč = $3.20 AUD
Corona (.33ltr) = 68Kč = $4.80 AUD

Orchid Lounge, 13 Coventry St, London, England
Heineken (330ml) = £4.10 = $8.50 AUD
Corona (330ml) = £3.90 = $8 AUD

The George, 216 St Georges Terrace, Perth, Western Australia
Heineken (330ml) = $9 AUD
Corona (330ml) = $9 AUD

Beer & Chocolate matching this Easter? Why not do it on a budget?

2009-04-08T00:54:00.001-07:00

With Easter ‘the festival of chocolate’ just days away, I thought it would be a good time to delve into the hedonistic past time of Beer & Chocolate matching. I have been advocating the virtue of beer’s rightful place on the dining table for some years now, and often talk on our tours about the joy to be had when pairing a luscious chocolate cake with the intense and complex flavours of a stout.

To those of you in the know, having a bottle of stout handy for dessert time is no revelation. However for some the sheer notion of matching the two up is inconceivable. No doubt those naysayers follow the popular belief that red wine is the natural partner for chocolate. This is quite a well touted idea, and although I’m not saying there aren’t any good red wine/choc combos to be had, the fact is that the flavours of most wines are overwhelmed by the richness of chocolate.

Beer on the other hand offers a different proposition. ‘Chocolaty’; ‘Bitter’; ‘Roasted’; ‘Earthy’ ‘Toasted’; ‘Coffee’; ‘Toffee’ are all flavour and aroma characteristics that can be attributed to beer and chocolate alike. So we’re already off to a good start. Beer also provides the necessary carbonation to cleanse the palate and a certain robustness and richness that can only be delivered by grain, not grape.

When aiming for that perfect match you are looking for the beer to complement the chocolate flavours and mouthfeel, without being overwhelmed by it’s sweetness. It’s about trying to elevate the flavour experience to beyond that of the individual products.

Now I’ve just realized how that last paragraph actually sounds, and I fear that I am treading dangerously close to “wanky” wine territory. Our boutique beer tours try to promote a more informed appreciation of beer selection and enjoyment, without taking the whole tasting process too seriously, so I do cringe a little when I err towards the language of the wine critic. Following a few simple guidelines should get you on the right track to an enlightened tasting experience without the need for a thesaurus or spittoon.

I’m not saying that every beer is suitable for this exercise, but there are four general clusters that tend to work best:

Beers using dark malts
Dark Lagers; Dunkels; Heavier Ales; Stouts & Porters all fall into this category. The roasted malts are what give these beers their dark rich colours and complex deep flavours. The ever present roasted, toasted, coffee flavours of these beers blend beautifully with the similar notes present in many dark & milk chocolates.
Fruity Beers
Predominantly the white beers styled on those of Belgium & Germany, where wheat dominates the grain bill and also some Belgian style ales feature here. These beer styles offer up some classic fruity and spicy dessert flavours (think Citrus; Banana; Clove; Nutmeg; Apple; Peach; Cinnamon; Apricot) that can really heighten the flavour of chocolate, particularly white chocolate.
Golden Malty Beers
Coopers Pale Ale; Golden Ales; American Wheat Ales; Kolsch; Blond Beer , this is a pretty broad category. Lighter and a little sweet in style, these beers pair well with products like chocolate chip cookies where there is lower chocolate concentration, and in the case of cookies, the sweet biscuitiness (if that’s a word?!) complements the beer further.
Belgian Fruit Lambics
Finally, and kind of out there on their own, these sour Lambic styles, Kriek (Cherry) and Framboise (Raspberry) are a perfect off set to rich dark chocolate, with the tartness of the fruit combining deliciously with the bitter sweet chocolate.

Keeping all of this in mind I set out to hold a little Beer & Chocolate experience of my own. However, not wanting to follow the well travelled path of ‘gourmet’ Belgian chocolates and swanky imported liquid gold, and moreover not having the budget amidst the GFC, I decided to try and complete the exercise on a budget. By ‘on a budget’ I mean using up the oodles of ‘brand name’chocolate bars that have somehow steadily multiplied in our cupboards since last Easter. As for the beers to match, I picked up a mixed bag of styles (I didn’t want to just stick to the obvious choices) all at reasonable price points from a local, non-specialist, bottle shop. So they should be easy to get hold of if you wanted to have a go yourself.

TIP: Like with many ales, allowing the chocolate to warm in your mouth a little will help to release some of the volatile flavours.

Here’s my results, so why not go and have a bit of an experiment of your own?

Matilda Bay Beez Neez (4.7% abv, Victoria) & Picnic
Brewed with barley and wheat malts with the addition of amber honey, this beer presents as fresh and crisp with dominant honey notes. The slightly bland finish of the beer is lifted excellently by the caramel sweetness at the end of the Picnic. Whilst the honey sweetness of the beer combines well with the light malt & nuttiness of the Picnic. It’s almost as if the ‘beeriness’ is enhanced of this clean and refreshing Beez Neez.
Note: Also tried with Crunchie – no good, choc was overly sweet and drowned out most of the beer characteristics.

Matso’s Monsoonal Blond (4.7% abv, Broome,WA) & Cadbury Dream
Brewed as a crystal wheat beer based on a Belgian Witbier, I thought the gentle carbonation and slight citrusy notes of the beer likened it to a Kolsch. Paired with the sweet, highly caramel taste of the white chocolate , the initial combination delivers a zesty lemon hit from the beer, before combining to an almost Ginger climax. The residual flavours are gentle and sweet with caramel and honey remaining.
James Squire Porter (5% abv, Camperdown, NSW)/Gage Roads Wahoo (4.6% abv,Fremantle,WA) & Kit Kat
I tried the Porter against a few of the heavier weight Lindt chocolates that I was convinced would be a perfect match, but found that against the high percentage cocoa content that it only just stood up to the intense bitterness levels, undoubtedly it mellowed the bitterness, but didn't really take me to a higher plain. Surprisingly the winner for me with the Porter was the good old fashioned Kit Kat! The residual sweetness of the chocolate balanced out sensationally with the bitterness of the Porter with some shared malt flavours also coming to the fore.
The versatile Kit Kat also performed well with light quaffing Gage Roads Wahoo. Initially the combo raises the beer profile to a fruitier sweeter high than when experienced alone and that holds as the milk chocolaty flavours remain. The sweet maltiness of the biscuit inside balances well with the sweetish Munich & Vienna malts present in the beer.
Matso’s Smokey Bishop (4.5%% abv, Broome, WA) & Lindt Coffee
I found this dark lager to have a bittersweet aroma, a very subtle chocolate flavour with a hint of coffee, and quite a pleasant medium bitterness. This was matched up with a Lindt Coffee Chocolate, this is a pretty good quality chocolate with medium to high bitterness, a very subtle coffee presence throughout and a smooth bitter finish. An excellent combination with contrasting and complementary flavours melding together to deliver a nutty mocha taste sensation.
Knappstein Enterprise Brewery Reserve Lager (5.6% abv,Clare, SA) & Bounty
This pale, complex and fruity lager is one of my fav’s at the moment. Wonderful floral aromas with a high hop bitterness that lingers at the finish. The pairing met wonderfully in the middle, the spiciness of the hop character cut through the increasing sweetness of the chocolate and coconut. This beer also worked well with the Terry’s Chocolate Orange delivering a spicy orange amalgamation, that reduced the ‘milkiness’ of the chocolate so that it tasted like a dark chocolate.
Harviestoun Bitter & Twisted (4.2% abv, Scotland) & Terry’s Chocolate Orange
The cask version of this beer won the Champion Beer of Britain back in 2003, and its probably been longer since I last purchased any. Herbal & Hoppy, refreshing and dry, it reminded me of the Moorish quality of British cask ales, when ‘just popping out for a quick pint’ could easily degenerate to consuming a gallon. The combination with this chocolate finds the orange essence dominating, masking any sweetness of the beer, it’s any interesting spicy orange combination, not unpleasant, but not good enough to stop you from drinking the beer ‘un-paired’.
Swan Stout(7.4% abv, South Australia) & Old Gold
A meeting of old classics with a nice balance of sweet & bitter between these two. Both finished at different bitterness levels, quite high coffee and alcohol flavour from the stout, certain dark roasted malt appeal. Quite adult flavours.
O’Briens Gluten Free Pale Ale (4.5% abv, Ballarat, Vic)
Not wanting to miss out on the wanton gluttony, a more senior member of the household (who unfortunately can now only consume bier sans gluten) gleefully put her hand up to try out this beer alongside some equally suitable coeliac friendly chocolate. The findings:
Fruit & Nut – Hoppiness of the beer complements the toasted nut and the sweetness of sultana.

Chocolate Orange – Spiciness of the beer is brought to the fore.
Ginger Snap – Nice combo, spicy and peppery.
Lindt Chilli Dark Chocolate – Nice contrast, spice & chilli meet, whilst the beer’s bitter finish cuts through the sweet chocolate.

Those crazy ping-pong guys are back - this time they've been paid by Carlsberg!

2009-03-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

You may remember the clips of those most impressive ping-pong ball tricksters doing the rounds a couple of years ago. Well it seems that the endless hours of practice didnt go to waste, with Carlsberg snapping up their talents for a recent TV ad.

Beer Flavoured Chips!!

2009-03-09T06:01:00.000-07:00

MMMMMMMMMMM! Beer Flavoured Chips, Gotta love the Germans for their all round dedication to the national drink!

Yarra Valley brewery destroyed in bushfires

2009-02-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

Thoughts go out to Simon & Beth Walkenhorst of Hargreaves Hill Brewery, who have been one of the many cruelly affected by the Victorian bushfires. The Yarra Valley site was sadly destroyed in last weekends blaze. A benefit gig has been arranged at 'The Local Taphouse' in East St Kilda on Thursday 19th February to benefit both the Red Cross Appeal and The Walkenhorst's. To find out more check out their blog http://thelocaltaphouse.blogspot.com/ .
Beers for the event have kindly been donated by a number of brewers including Little Creatures, Jamieson, The NSW Brewers Guild, Matilda Bay, James Squire, Coopers.
If you cant get along and wish to donate, you can do so via the blog link.

WA Short Updates

2009-01-27T22:37:00.000-08:00

Just a quick run down for you of some recent developments at local Western Australian breweries . . . . . . . . . .
Duckstein - Production has now shifted to the new Margaret River site away from the german brewer's spiritual Swan Valley home. And after a many a parking issue in the past (i'm sure you have suffered at some time here), the Valley site now has overflow parking available adjacent to the current car park. Feral - Earthmoving and landscaping is done and dusted at the Haddrill Rd site, with the extended al fresco seating and dining areas now complete - It looks great and on those busy summer days gives even more punters the chance to settle in for an afternoon of those magic Feral beers. Mash - are also creating a licensed outdoor area, commandeering an area of car park to the rear of the current dining deck. Long overdue, and i'm sure it would have happened sooner were it not for the restrictive local licensing issues. If you havent been down to Little Creatures in Freo for a while, then do pop your head in. The sampling room/shop is well and truly up and running and looks sensational - as too does the new layout. Also to note is that they are offering FREE 'Little Creatures' Bicycle hire from the new annexe, there are not heaps available and it is on a first come first served basis, nonetheless another great initiative. Heading down south and Bootleg Brewery, the Margaret River stalwart, are offering hopheads a real treat with their Settlers Pale Ale being pumped through fresh ’08 crop NZ Cascade Hops from 12pm every Friday. Using a system known as 'The Grasshopper', representatives say "this is a relatively new innovation for Bootleg Brewery, however the concept has been around US breweries for some time". I cant wait to get down there on a Friday arvo soon!
I'm still yet to get into the "new" Old Brewery down on the Swan foreshore, but great to see the site brewing again and some craft beer back on the bar, looking forward to trying brewer, Mark Reilly's trio of new brews.

Beer@Southbound & a disappointing inaugural Perth International Beer Fest

2009-01-15T20:46:00.000-08:00

With Christmas decorations packed away and the new fitness regime underway (who am I kidding?) it must be 2009 and what better way to kick the year off with two summer festivals, of a different kind.

First up was the "Southbound" music festival down in Busselton on Jan 2nd/3rd. Always well organised and sporting a great line up, yadda yadda, i'm sure you'll find much better write ups on the music side of the event in the local street press. It's the beer i'm interested in. Once again there was a 'boutique' brewers area, and this time Gage Roads & Little Creatures beer featured. Great to see punters again being given the option of quality beer on offer, my only slight gripe was the hike on 2008's pricing. $9's for a cup is about the top end of what you want to be paying for a locally produced beer. And whilst we are on the subject of expensive beer . . . . . .

Next up was last weekends "Perth International Beer Festival". Disappointing would be an understatement. As we slowly shuffled towards the entrance (in the stinking heat) the general call from scores of disgruntled punters, heading out of the Langley Park venue, was "don't bother mate" & "save your money" (door entry alone had cost $25pp!). The calls were a little late for us, as unfortunately we were in the 25 minute queue for people who had already purchased tickets (for those without there was a further 20 minute queue to buy a ticket, before joining the rear of our queue). Nonetheless, we had already paid, so whats the harm in having a look anyway.

On entry, the first impression we came across was the regulation selection of average food vans, If you have been to any festival of any description in Perth in the past 6 months, you'll know exactly the one's that I mean. Choice is limited to the fried and the fatty, and certainly doesn't stretch to the needs of those with allergies or food intolerance.

Deciding against a bite to eat, we headed straight for the bar to quench our insatiable thirst (by now over an hour had passed since the last pint of Squire Golden at The Grosvenor). Even with the busiest of pubs (a la Sunday afternoon at Creatures) with 3 deep at the bar, you can handle the delay because you can still lean over and touch the beer. But when you know you've got at least a twenty minute wait for replenishment, whilst you look on at the attractive, yet cognitively challenged bar staff who seemingly find opening a stubbie the hardest of tasks, It is a little hard to keep your cool.

Of the four or five bars, only two appeared to be serving draught beers (a must for churning out the volume - particularly if the alternative is pouring from stubbies into plastic cups), and the selection of beers was pedestrian at best, with pricing at the higher end of Perth pub levels. I cant say I noticed any product that wasn't already being supplied to Perth pubs/Bottlo's through FM Liquor, Lionel Samson or Phoenix Beers. Although I did get a bit excited to see Konig Ludwig Weissbier & Warsteiner (both brands I have an affinity to) advertising flags, alas neither beer appeared to be stocked.
So we decided to do a quick spin around the paddock to see if perhaps there was a quicker route to slaking our thirsts, unfortunately it wasn't to be. We ghosted past the 50 odd thirsty souls awaiting the misfortune of purchasing a Cup of "Phoenix Beer", from that brewing mecca, err, Mauritius. With the benefit of a recent tasting of said beer, and empathy for the rapidly dehydrating keen samplers, I cant imagine that the crowd were best impressed when finally served.

The music was pleasant, although I did feel for the acts. Performing to distant huddles of those queueing for beer and those carefully guarding their small plots under the shade cloth must have been hard work in the blistering conditions. Oh, and lest we forget that there was a mini LaserQuest game; a kids area and some fairground rides. All essential for any good beerfest. Alas, forlornly we exited, parched, pissed off and grumbling "don't bother mate" & "save your money" to anyone who would listen.

Now maybe Ive got it all wrong, and the event managed to deliver all things to all men, and those few grumbling comments made on exit came from the vocal minority who didn't have a great time. I somehow think not, and perhaps promoters ACOS events could do well to have a look at the Sunset Events book of festival promotion.

Regardless of the event being a success or not, my biggest concern is the impact that can be had on future legitimate Beer Festivals, where its all about the beer and not about "the event". I cant help but think that another substandard beer festival event (lets not forget the Fremantle International Beer Fest in '06) somehow sullies the good name of Beer to the WA public.

So for next year guys, I'd just feel a lot more comfortable if you call it a family fun day, and on the long list of events & entertainment just write underneath in very small letters "Beer Tent".

Brewing Jobs at Little Creatures, Fremantle

2008-11-18T00:14:00.000-08:00

Couple of brewing jobs available at Fremantle's Little Creatures Brewery.

To apply for either position, please email your CV to jobs@littlecreatures.com.au

XPERIENCED BREWER On shift and reporting to the Production Brewer, this hands-on person will share the responsibility of the team and rise to the challenge to produce an award winning range of beers that are, on-time, in-spec and on-budget. A technical background (brewing, science, engineering, etc) is desired together with a minimum of three years’ experience as a brewer in a commercial operation. Our goal is simply to make outstanding beer that we are all immensely proud of – passionate brewing professionals should only apply.

TRAINEE BREWER We are looking to recruit a recent graduate to train as a Brewer. The role will suit an individual who has a professional outlook, is career focused and is enthusiastic about brewing and science. The Brewery offers are very multi-skilled environment, and you will find yourself working in all aspects of brewing, processing and packaging. Interested people with relevant trade-based skills and passion for our industry are also encouraged to apply.

Oktoberfest Celebrations in Perth and New Brewery Speculations?

2008-10-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

Looking for somewhere to get into the Oktoberfest spirit?
They are celebrating Oktoberfest throughout the month at the Indian Ocean Brewhaus - where you can purchase a limited edition 1 litre Indi Stein, filled with the Indi brew of your choice for a bargain $25, plus if you buy any Indi Beer during Oktoberfest you go into the draw to WIN the Ultimate Indi Party Pack! Pack Includes: - Kegorator Bar Fridge- 50L Keg of Indi Beer - 8 x Branded Indi Pint glasses. Whilst sampling the beer, why not check out the traditional Bavarian menu on offer. Duckstein in the Swan Valley on Saturday 25th October are having a special Oktoberfest party featuring live music all day and into the night; The Dolomiten Polka Band, Nancy & Christa's German Duo and some popular music from Alan the Music Man. Festivities commence at 11am and traditional German singing and dancing will be the order of the day. A special Oktoberfest Beer has been prepared for the occasion. Bookings are highly recommended. And at Elmars in the Valley on Sat 25th & 26th October more Germanic fun and games can be had with their annual celebrations - Free entry with your purchase of either $5 beer/wine glass or $15 1 ltr Stein. Festivities kick off at 11am both days, finishing late on the Saturday and at 5pm on the Sunday. Get down down there for a feast of German beer, food and music.
New Breweries??
And whilst troubles seem to continue at Fremantle's Mad Monk, (see article) it doesnt seem to halt the interest in new breweries in WA. As previously written, plans are afoot for a new brewing operation within the revamped Northbridge development, there are rumours abound of a new brewery in Midland and has anybody wondered why Chuck Hahn is spending so much time in town?? Perhaps it is time that a James Squire Brewhouse opened up in Perth? Watch this space for news updates.

In Perth or Freo? Fancy a beer with Chuck Hahn tonight Weds 24th Sept?

2008-09-23T20:54:00.000-07:00

Chuck's back in town

2008-09-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

Following James Squires recent nationwide Chefs Match beer and food event, Mr Chuck Hahn is back in Perth this month for more beer and food matching delights. Visit the Windsor Hotel on Mill Point Rd,South Perth on Wednesday 24th September for the Windsor Indian Food Fair, where you can experience a selection of exotic dishes from their Indian chefs partnered with the distinctive brews from the James Squire stable. Your host for the evening Dr. Chuck Hahn, Master Brewer will take you on an exotic food & beer journey. Commencing at 7.30 pm tickets are $70.00 per head with Bookings essential by phoning Kim on 08 94742229.
The following evening, Thursday 25th September, why not head to Origins Restaurant, The Sheraton, Perth for a Five Course Degustation Menu. In partnership with James Squire and Sheraton Perth Hotel the creative, contemporary cuisine prepared by Sheraton's Chef De Cuisine, Travis Collins and his expert culinary team will be paired with the unique tastes of James Squire, in a dinner hosted by Master Brewer Dr .Chuck Hahn from the Malt Shovel Brewery.

"designed not only for lovers of a good ale, but those who are also interested in finding the beer that's right for them..."

Enjoy a five course degustation menu, each dish featuring the freshest West Australian sourced produce and has been matched with sensational James Squire Beer.
$85 per person: Bookings essential, Please phone 08 9224 7734.

W.A Brew News

2008-09-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

Its time for a quick round up of whats going on in the WA brewing scene, where the big boys of micro brewing are experiencing some tough financial times. Two of the more recent additions, Empire and Oz Brewing have exited from their interests in Colonial Brewing and Mad Monk. Empire, who were looking to create economies of scale through a multi-venue hospitality operation, have sold up The Royal in East Perth and the Colonial Brewing Co in Margaret River to Colonial Leisure Group Pty Ltd for an estimated $4.5 million. Whilst Oz Brewing Ltd have sold their 49% in relative newcomers, Mad Monk in Fremantle, with an option to acquire 100% of the asset.
Gage Roads posted a net loss after tax of $3.62 million, compared with $3.07 million loss in 07, yet remain upbeat about the challenges ahead and are hoping a new distribution agreement with VOK Beverages will improve their presence in eastern markets. To support the push, Gage Roads also hope to launch two new high volume products in the current financial year, including a low carb beer set for release next month. Two ciders area also in the pipeline.
Little Creatures continue to buck these trends and forge ahead with their astounding success. Net Profit annually was up 14% to $3.41 million, as the brewer completes its plant expansion plans in Fremantle, opens its first Melbourne venue in Brunswick St, Fitzroy and constructs a new brewing facility on the 'Giant Steps' vineyard in the Yarra Valley - where they hope to develop a new brand. And if you visit either the Freo or Fitzroy venues you can now purchase 'mix & match' cartons of the brewers four beer core range - that's a six pack each of Pale, Pils, Bright & Rogers - so there is something for every one.
In the Perth northern suburbs, Indian Ocean Brewhaus are celebrating a win at the Australian Hotels Association Awards for Excellence in Sydney, having been voted Australia's Best New Redeveloped Venue! A great lead in for a busy Oktoberfest period and the re-scheduled Indi International Beer Dinner on Friday 3rd October (Bookings Essential 9400 1187).

Out in the Valley, Duckstein announce the availability of a Duckstein 5L minikeg to take home and share with friends. The elegantly presented label features the artwork of Nannup artist Marion Duke and depicts the lansdcape of Saracen Estates, Margaret River. This first run of Pilsner is available for a limited time only.

Spring in the Valley is always a busy time for the Valley's original brewery and this year on The 11th & 12th of October will be no different, with around 60,000 people soaking up the wonderful atmosphere and sampling the delights of the Swan Valley. The Duckstein Brewery will again be commencing Oktoberfest celebrations with live music from the Dolomiten German Polka Band, Alan McGowat's Band and a cool DJ. The festivities kickoff at 11am, with FREE entry on a first-come, first-served basis. On Saturday 25th October they are having a special Oktoberfest party featuring live music all day and into the night; The Dolomiten Polka Band, Nancy & Christa's German Duo and some popular music from Alan the Music Man. Festivities commence at 11am and traditional German singing and dancing will be the order of the day. A special Oktoberfest Beer has been prepared for the occasion.
Bookings are highly recommended. If you are driving along Caves Rd in Margaret River and catch a waft of malt and hops it's because they have started brewing!- although, unfortunately it won't be ready to drink until late-October. Watch this space for news of the impending opening.

Thats all for now folks, keep an eye out for more updates coming soon. And remember, you can subscribe direct to this blog via RSS or read any updates on our facebook page.
Cheers

The Brewers Dray in WA Business News

2008-08-20T23:51:00.000-07:00

Click on the image to view the article.

Boozewatch Beer of the Week - Save Money

2008-08-12T03:15:00.000-07:00

Highlighted on My Boozewatch this week is another great double deal at Woolworth Liquor throughout Perth until 17th August. At $39.98 per 24 you can try out two of Germany's most famed lagers in Lowenbrau and Bitburger. If you can't get to Woolies, then remember you can also visit a 1st Choice Liquor outlet, and if the beer is in stock - quote Woolies advertised price - and under their price guarantee, they will let you have it for the same price!

To set up your own personalised weekly beer special alerts visit www.boozewatch.com

Great British Beer Festival : Champion Beer of Britain Announced

2008-08-05T02:35:00.001-07:00

The 31st Great British Beer Festival at Earls Court, London, kicks off today, with a five day feast of over 450 real ales, ciders, perries and international beers.

The usual beer festival activities are on offer once again where you can play some traditional english pub games, enjoy live music, sample some good old fashioned pub snacks and also attend tutored beer tastings. And perhaps most importantly for the brewers of the Bristish Isles, the announcements for the esteemed Champion Beer of Britain are announced. 2005 and 2006 were double winning years for the Essex brewer, Crouch Vale, taking away the top gong with the sensational Brewers Gold, and 2007 was once again the year of the underrated Mild style of ale (Moorhouse's Black Cat was the last Mild to to take overall Gold in 2000), with Shropshire brewer, Hobsons taking the plaudits.

We are pleased to announce with super quick speed direct from London that this years major winners are: CBoB Gold: Altons Pride from Triple fff (Hampshire), Beckstones Black Dog Freddy's Mild was awarded silver overall with bronze going to Wickwar's Station Porter, the champion winter beer from earlier in the year.

Altons Pride has for many years been a great beer available throughout its local area and is most deserving. Congratulations also to Ray from Wickwar, a fellow stalwart from Matt Jacksons Wednesday Club in Bristol, onya Ray!

Boozewatch Beers of the Week - Save Money

2008-08-04T22:44:00.000-07:00

Highlighted on My Boozewatch this week is an Aussie Classic at a great price. Take advantage of the Woolworth Liquor deal throughout Perth on Coopers Sparkling Ale. This iconic Australian stand out is available until 10th August at $44.98 per 24. And don't forget the extra volume value you get with this 375ml beer over the majority of mainstream international imports. If you can't get to Woolies, then remember you can also visit a 1st Choice Liquor outlet, and quote Woolies advertised price - and under their price guarantee, they will let you have it for the same price!

To set up your own personalised weekly beer special alerts visit www.boozewatch.com

New Beer Tour DL Card Design

2008-08-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

Click on the image above to take you straight to a copy of The Brewers Dray - Boutique Beer Explorer's new flyer design.

WA Brewers Got the Bottle

2008-07-21T22:31:00.000-07:00

Indian Ocean Brewhaus are the latest to offer up their beer range in packaged format following the installation of a four head bottling line to their brewing facility in Mindarie. On display at the recent Perth Good Food Show the White, Pale Ale & Pilsner are currently available to purchase from the brewery for $18 per 6 pack. Another WA brewer showing off their new bottling line are Albany's Tanglehead, who hope to increase both their brewing capacity and current packaged line up. Keep an eye out too for the South Wests Cowaramup Brewing Company who are advanced in plans to release their beers in similar packaging to that of Tasmania's Moo Brew (pictured) - From Moo Brew to Cow Town, What could be more suited?

Indi Beer Dinner New Date

2008-07-02T22:39:00.000-07:00

The Indian Ocean Brewhaus at Mindarie Keys have released a new date for the 'Indi International Beer Dinner', presumably replacing last months postponement. The event is due to be held on Friday 3rd October, coinciding with their 2008 Oktoberfest celebrations - get it into your diary and call to book on 9400 1187.

Sign the Petition for Small Brewers Excise Relief in Australia

2008-06-30T23:57:00.000-07:00

Micro-Brewers througout Australia need some kind of parity with small winemakers when it comes to Excise duty paid. Click below to find out more and to sign up to the petition:

http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/excise-relief-for-australian-beer.html

Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show 2008 Results

2008-06-25T23:14:00.000-07:00

"The 2008 Cryer Malt Perth Royal Beer Show was an outstanding success attracting 273 entries from 59 breweries across Australia. In its second year the competition was a resounding success and showed an increased number of entries reflecting the continuing growth of the industry. A panel of Western Australian experts judged a variety of full-strength, reduced alcohol, draught and packaged beers within the Commercial and Amateur brewers sections including lagers, ales, stouts and wheat beers. Seventeen class trophies were awarded, 26 gold, 60 silver and 73 bronze medals."

Results for the 2nd annual Perth Royal Beer Show:

The Top Awards
Best Commercial Beer of the Show won by Redoak Boutique Beer for Redoak Rauch. Best Western Australian Beer of the Show won by Nail Brewing for Nail Stout. Best Amateur Beer of the Show won by Ian Walker of Kelmscott for a wheat beer (with a Berliner Weisse style).

Commercial Trophy Winners
The Edith Cowan University Trophy for Best Lager Packaged won by Redoak Boutique Beer for Redoak Rauch.
The www.microbrewing.com.au for Best Lager Draught won by Feral Brewing Co for Feral Pilsener.
The Cryer Malt Trophy for Best Ale Packaged and Draught won by Gage Roads Brewing Co for Gage Roads IPA.
The Edith Cowan University Trophy for Best Stout Packaged won by Nail Brewing for Nail Stout.
The Hopco Trophy for Best Stout Draught won by Nail Brewing for Nail Stout.
The Pall Corporation Trophy for Best Reduced Alcohol Packaged won by Matilda Bay Brewing Co for Redback Mild.
The Morish Trophy for Best Reduced Alcohol Draught won by Gage Roads Brewing Co for Gage Road Pils.
The Cryer Malt trophy for Best Wheat Beer Packaged was won by Matilda Bay Brewing Co for Redback Original. The Beer and Brewer Magazine Trophy for Best Wheat Beer Draught won by Last Drop Brewery for Last Drop Wheat.
The Coeliac Society of Western Australia trophy for Best Gluten Free Packaged and Draught won by Billabong Brewing for Australias Pale Ale.

Little Creatures Fremantle Construction Update

2008-06-24T18:35:00.000-07:00

Construction at Little Creatures in Fremantle continues at great pace, as these latest photo's show. The super structure is now in place, bridging the gap between the original americas cup shed/crocodile farm and the deconstructed Harbourside nightclub (now home to Creatures Loft), which was purchased in a multi -million dollar deal about 18 months ago. Lets hope that the finalised plans have plenty of additional outdoor seating for those lazy summer days, sunnies on and a pint of pale in hand!

Chuck Hahn back in Perth for more Ales & Tales: 11th July 08

2008-06-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

Brewing legend Chuck Hahn returns to Perth for another beer & food lovers evening. This time hosted by Sen5es Restaurant at the Novotel, Adelaide Terrace, Perth.
I went to a similar event not too long back and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening and $80's seems like great value.
It's happening on Friday 11th July 2008 and is a must for those lovers of the James Squire beer range.

Film Festival - Beer Dinner Postponed - New Website

2008-06-13T02:30:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, the Indian Ocean Brewhaus have announced the postponement of their June 18th Beer Dinner. Unfortunately, two large groups have drastically reduced their seating requirements, rendering the event untenable. They promise to reschedule in the very near future. On a brighter note and on the same evening another WABA member, Tanglehead of Albany, invite you to "Enjoy an evening of food and beer matching with our Brew master and Chef from 6pm. Six courses of great local produce inspired by the complimentary flavours of our award-winning beers. $95 per person, Bookings essential." They can be contacted on Tel: (08) 9841 1733, Email:info@tanglehead.com.au . Little Creatures LOFT are playing host to the launch of WA Beer Week this evening (13/06) and are also transforming the Loft Red Room into a 'cosy cinema' in coming weeks. They have teamed up with FTI to screen an eclectic mix of locally produced short films, over three winter nights. Thurs 26th June/Thurs 10th July/Thurs July 24th are when it happens. Gold coin entry (proceeds to FTI), Doors/Bar open at 5pm, Screening at 7pm. Get there early as places will be limited. Duckstein Brewery have relaunched their website, and it's a great improvement, check it out at http://www.duckstein.com.au/ . A recent visit down south noted that building works were coming along nicely at their new site on Caves Rd, their website states that September 08 is the new proposed venue opening. And finally, if you happen to be down that way over WA beer week, be sure to drop in to Bootleg Brewery and celebrate with the following specials, on all week:
$15 jugs (except Raging Bull) every day of beer week. Daily tours of the brewery with head brewer Michael Brookes at 2pm (Monday to Friday, tours limited to 15 people, so please book)
Happy hour every day from 3:30pm - 4:30pm.
Cheers

Beer shorts from around the traps . . .

2008-06-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Mash Bunbury - First visit down there, and it appears to be a great move for both the brewery and the town alike. Unfortunately they are still to receive the local council's green light to start on-site brewing from their micro-plant behind the bar, however, they are carrying a solid range brewed at the Swan Valley HQ. Mex, Haze, Pale, Black, Honey Pils, and the easy drinking Bunbury Blonde (4.9%) currently grace the bar. Same great value $15 lunch deals as at the Swan Valley site and in a great waterfront location in a small complex (next to Dome Coffee/Bar-Bados) on Bonnefoi Blvd overlooking Koombana Bay. For Reservations Ph:97216111. Whilst on the subject of Mash, the Swan Valley site has undergone a bit of a facelift. Gone have the images of cricketing heroes, to be replaced by a sleeker paint job. The bar area has had some large display boards installed carrying tasting notes and the furniture has had a bit of a freshen up. Our latest tour group were fortunate to be the first to taste the latest seasonal brew, an Irish stout, with thumbs up all round. Special thanks to Mark who took time out to give the group an extensive brewery tour and answer all of their questions. A final note, and it's probably too late for you to take advantage of it, but they also had cartons of the first run brew of 'Mex' available at a very special price of $30's.(See previous post for details on beer dinner) Feral Brewing, Swan Valley - Get in quick to sample the sensational hop showcase that is 'Tusk'. Weighing in at 9%abv and 90 IBU's, this is a beer not to be taken lightly. This imperial IPA is one for the serious hopheads, high bitterness and aroma, with a fairly low malty sweetness. Also, check out the new menus http://www.feralbrewing.com.au/menus.html

Elmars in the Valley, Swan Valley - A relatively new addition on the bar is the 6.1% Maibock, replacing the dunkel. Light golden in colour, low hopping and pleasant malt fruitiness. Would probably prefer it in a Munich biergarten at this time of the year, but you cant have everything! Mad Monk, Fremantle - Big improvements as time has gone on. Service levels have improved and table availability is better, however, they do at times look a little stretched with the numbers on the floor. A previous gripe was the ambiguously titled 'large' & 'regular' servings - this has been rectified, with a 660ml serve of in-house brew available for around $9 - seems like great value. Funky new designs seem to have appeared on the large street facing wall (or maybe I had been there too long?!), there is an expanded non-dining drinking area, live music sunday arvo, the beer range has expanded to six, with an IPA and Porter the latest additions. Founding brewer, Richard Moroney has moved on, and it appears that local brewing legend, Hugh Dunn, currently controls the mash tun alongside Justin Fox. Food has always been excellent. Its great to see a new operator seemingly getting to grips with their market. Essex St Organic Cafe, Fremantle - Have been receiving some good local press lately on the organic eats and were stocking Richmond brewer, Mountain Goat, IPA at $8 per stubby. Lyrebird, Fremantle - New addition to the dining scene Freo, based down at Fishing Boat Harbour. Menu unfortunately didn't really live up to the press hype, delivering fairly standard pub/tavern fayre. Grolsch & Peroni available by the stubby, Becks, Heineken, James Squire Golden and the usual uber brands on tap. Wot no WA craft beers Lyrebird? Sail & Anchor, Fremantle - Sad to hear that head brewer Mel Secourable has moved down to Margaret River to head the brewing team at Colonial, hopefully new head honcho Fiona can continue the good work. Pleasantly surprised on a recent visit, when actually receiving the kind of attentive service that we were used to 4 or 5 years ago. Ive always enjoyed the brews on offer, however, recent times have seen a drop in interest and knowledge of bar staff, it was great to assisted by someone displaying the opposite - hopefully a taste of things to come. Clancy's, Fremantle - Wonderful paint job and general tidy up are just the tonic for this beer lovers haven. Rarely can I say anything bad about these guys, and this time is no different! Northbridge Brewing Co - Awaiting further news on developments at the new city centre site proposed by Mustang Bar owner Mike Keilor’s Clearview. Other than 'The Brass Monkey', it's fairly tough to find a decent pint in Northbridge, so this has to be a winner. Drink Better, Drink Local!

Western Australian Brewers working on their Brews & Chews

2008-06-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

Three Western Australian Brewers Association members are showcasing the wonderful art of pairing beer and food, with in-house beer dinners later this month.

The Indian Ocean Brewing Company at Mindarie Marina are joining forces with the team from current AIBA Grand Champion Brewery, Matilda Bay, to deliver a sensational 5 course degustation menu, alongside suitably matched brews. The menu for the June 18th event reads:

Puntenesca

served with Indi Pilsner/Matilda Bay Redback

Dressed crab with celeriac remoulade with warm Indi Pale Ale bread

served with Indi White/Matilda Bay Beez Neez

Warm goats cheese in crisp potato with pickled beetroot

served with Indi Bock/Matilda Bay Alpha Pale Ale

Indi Calypso Beer sorbet

Roasted breast of duck on potato and onion rosti with caramelised pear jus

served with Indi Pale Ale/Bohemian pils

Cherry chocolate pudding with Indi Bock ice cream

served with Indi’s secret brew/Matilda Bay Dogbolter

It will cost you $85 per person, and you can knock 10% off that if you book for ten or more. Bookings can be made by contacting Hayley on 9400 1187 or by email hayley@mindariemarina.com.au

Saturday June 28th sees the return of the annual beer dinner at Cowaramup Brewing Company, in the state’s south west. Head brewer Jeremy Good is teaming up with Brendan Varis of Feral Brewing, to deliver a fully inclusive ($90pp) five course extravaganza, expertly paired with Cowaramup’s hearty beer range. They hope to open your eyes to some of the wonderful complexities of beer and food matching, in what will prove to be a highly informative and enjoyable night for you and your tastebuds. Please contact Claire for bookings on +61 8 9755 5822 or claire@cowaramupbrewing.com.au. The menu for the evening reads:

Freshly shucked oysters
served with stout shooters

Smoked trout fettucini with caper and roast chilli salsa
served with Cowaramup Pilsener

Toasted coconut and goat rendang with pickled cucumbers
served with Cowaramup Hefeweizen

Warm tapioca pudding with double cream and golden mandarins
served with India Pale Ale

Tasmanian Mersey Valley Vintage Cheddar with prune and walnut log
served with Special Pale Ale

What a perfect excuse for a weekend getaway down south!!

Just a day earlier, on Friday 27th, you can head to Mash Brewery in the Swan Valley for their innaugural beer degustation dinner. The evening aims to showcase their award winning range of hand crafted beers For $110 pp you will be treated to at least 9 different beers and 13 courses, all perfectly matched to highlight the strengths of coupling beer with food. Hear all about the different styles of beer produced at Mash, straight from the brewers, Dan & Mark, with insights into the brewing process and raw materials used. Seats are limited to just 120, so get in quick to book your place by calling the brewery on 92965588.

Shame on you Fosters

2008-05-28T01:19:00.000-07:00

For those lovers of the Cascade range of beers, you may have noticed recently that they have been going down a bit quicker than usual. No, it's not that your drinking problem has worsened, but those keen eyed amongst you would have spotted the change in stubby size. Earlier in the year those lovely people at uber brewer, Fosters, started to roll out it's downsized packaging of the Cascade range.

Quite remarkably, a company spokesman cited the decision was made in order to remain competitive with increasingly popular imported brands like Heineken, Becks, Carlsberg and Stella. What utter rubbish. It all comes down to the greed of the accountants running the Fosters Group, who in turn put the pressure on the Cascade crew.

To add insult to injury, he also added, "It still represents great value when you line it up against its rivals. With any change you make like this, you are going to get consumers who are unhappy with it but we are confident that premium drinkers will accept the changes and continue to drink Cascade,". Mmmm, lets have a think about it, so your'e saying we can have the same beer? Great. Your'e also saying that the price isnt going up? Great. But whats that? Your'e going to give us about 12% less volume, and as a makeweight, we can drink it from a sexy new bottle.

Shame on you Fosters. Do you really believe your going to influence the legions of 'style' drinkers by changing the design, surely its what is on the inside the counts? Apart from anything else, are you not risking the relationships you have with loyal Cascade drinkers across the country?

Well, latest news out of Tasmania seems to be echoing that. This article from Tasmania's paper The Mercury shows that the backlash amongst locals is well underway. http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,23712767-3462,00.html So watch out for an increase in stubby size on the Pale Ale soon, at least if your based on the apple isle. God bless the big brewers!