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

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 Soap : On tap NOW!

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!

Beery Apple Fritters: Celebrating WA Beer Week

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

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

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

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)

WA Beer Week Event: Monday 8th June

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

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.

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)

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

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

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

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!!

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

Yarra Valley brewery destroyed in bushfires

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

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

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".

Oktoberfest Celebrations in Perth and New Brewery Speculations?

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.

Chuck's back in town

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

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

Click on the image to view the article.

New Beer Tour DL Card Design

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

Sign the Petition for Small Brewers Excise Relief in Australia

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