Although the Schwarz Family Company shelved plans for a brewery at its Canberra hotel (the Mercure, formerly Olims), the company continues to sell its own Sydney-brewed beer there and to run its annual craft beer festival.
This year’s event – to be held at the Mercure next Saturday from 11am to 6pm – features beers from 15 brewers: Schwartz, Coopers, Little Creatures, Malt Shovel, Lord Nelson, Paulaner, Stricklands, Harts Rocks Brewery, Matilda Bay, Stone and Wood, Mudgee Brewing Company, 4 Pines, Pinchgut, Hop Dog and Dalgety Brewing.
Canberra’s Zierholz and Wig and Pen are notable absentees. Nevertheless, with over 80 beers and ciders on tasting, it’s a significant event for local beer lovers.
A $25 pass ($35 for families) includes a cup and ten tasting tickets. Full details and tickets are available at www.canberrabeerfest.com
Copyright © Chris Shanahan 2012
First published 11 April 2012 in The Canberra Times
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