Australian International Beer Awards hand gold to Margaret River brewers

Breweries across the Margaret River region have poured a few cold ones to celebrate their latest national recognition. A full order of local producers have returned with gongs from the Australian International Beer Awards in Melbourne in news that brewers say continues to establish the region as a famed destination for beer drinkers and not just wine lovers. Brewhouse Margaret River was singled out by the awards judges with a trophy for its kolsch variety, a gold medal, and medals for three other drinks. Co-director Iliya Hastings said the wins came from Australia’s premier beer awards and winners had to compete against 3000 entries. “It’s a real vindication for all the effort we put in as a business, and the passion, expertise and loyalty of our brewing team,” Mr Hastings said. “We are trying to help build a legacy for our region along with all the other great breweries that puts us all on the world beer map. “Getting this award is a nice recognition that we are doing a good job.” Brewhouse scored gold for their In the Pines Hazy IPA and medals for their Red IPA, Pale Ale and Oatmeal Stout, with the kolsch trophy for the best British or European-style ale. However, Beerfarm and Black Brewing also got their spot at the bar. Black Brewing won silver and bronze medals as well as gold for the company’s Hazy Pale draught, Session Ale and American Pale Ale. Beerfarm’s American-style IPA also snagged gold alongside its reduced-alcohol Hazy Standard canned beers, plus silver and bronze in other categories. Cheeky Monkey also won several silver and bronze. Melbourne Royal chief executive Brad Jenkins, in overseeing the awards, noted entries from more than 400 exhibitors across 21 countries. “Heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of medals and trophies,” he said. “There’s nothing quite like winning at the world’s largest annual beer competition.” Mr Hastings said the “humbling” yet fast-growing national recognition for the region as a destination for beer lovers was one of the drivers behind his company’s expansion. Brewhouse expected to open its new production facility on Station Road later this year at the same time the company unveils its new branding as the Margaret River Beer Co. While Brewhouse would remain as the brewer’s key venue, the new moniker would align with the company’s expansion and the growth of its offering, Mr Hastings said.