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)

Cherry and Peanut Cookies: Celebrating WA beer week

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.

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)

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)

Perth's new breweries update

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!

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Boozewatch Beer of the Week - Save Money

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

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.

Indi Beer Dinner New Date

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.

Little Creatures Fremantle Construction Update

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!

Beer shorts from around the traps . . .

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

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.