Taking on the big companies who own most of the beer labels we’re used to seeing at the pub or bottle-o, craft breweries offer new and unique flavours. The craft beer market in Australia has grown significantly in recent years. Safe to say, it’s a pretty good time to be a beer drinker right now! Our choices are endless, with many different labels offering such different styles. If you don’t feel like drinking a traditional lager, why not reach for an IPA, saison, stout, or pale ale?
Capital Brewing Co. is one of the newest additions to Australia’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Based in Canberra, hence the name, the label was launched by a group of friends last year. Included in the founding team are brothers Rich and Sam Coombes, who also founded Batlow Cider Co. and Will & Co. coffee together. Sam is also responsible for surf fashion label The Critical Slide Society. Clearly he didn’t already have enough on his plate before starting a beer company too!
Rich and Sam joined forces with the operators behind iconic Canberra venues Honky Tonks and Hippo Co., Tom Hertel and Laurence Kain. Through a shared love of craft beer, Capital Brewing Co. was born. The team recruited Wade Hurley as their Head Brewer, whose experience at some prominent craft breweries in California gives him great insight into what makes a good beer. Together the team have set about creating their own contribution to the Australian craft beer scene, with their Coast Ale being first cab off the rank.
With plans to launch their own brewery in Canberra this year, Capital Brewing Co. has also been able to take advantage of the new Batlow region hop program. Though the area is predominantly renowned for their apples, a recent successful foray into hop farming means the brewery will be able to use fresh hops in their brews.
We recently had the chance to chat with Wade about beer, food, and Capital Brewing Co. Check out our interview below.
What differences have you found between the California beer scene and Australia?
Where do you see the Australian craft beer scene heading?
What attracted you to Capital Brewing Co.?
You’ve just done a collaboration with Grifter. What do you enjoy about working with other breweries?
You’re using fresh hops from the Batlow region. How will this influence the beers you brew?
Fresh hops gives beer a unique flavour. The Cascade hops grown in Batlow have a great fruity aroma. I am looking forward to using more of their hops in different recipes.
What type of beers would you recommend people opt for coming into summer?
What’s the best food to pair Coast Ale with?
Coast Ale pairs really well with seafood. It’s light and has a subtle citrus note. Drink one with a prawn pasta or some fresh oysters by the beach.