There’s a new brew on the block

Brewhogs Micro-brewery launched in Barbeque Downs, and Mike Martin of the brewery was delighted that 300 community members attended.

He said they were given a tour of the brewery by Nxusani, which is a treat in itself considering her credentials.

Martin said Nxusani holds an honours degree in microbiology, a diploma in brewing, and is the first black person in South Africa to be approved as a brewing training provider, and will complete her Diploma in Master Brewing in June.

She has had experience working at SABMiller before she went on to pursue a career as a craft brewer and joined Brewhogs Micro-brewery as the brewmaster, shareholder and general manager of the organisation.

Nxusani said, “Brewing is not only my career but also my passion, my hobby. For me, craft brewing is about perfecting the balance between the science and the art. We love our craft!”

While the brewery has just opened its doors in Barbeque Downs, it dates back to 1984 as a showpiece brewery for Gold Reef City. It was established in the country as Barney’s Tavern in 1985, “where it stood on show as a working brewery for nine years”, said Martin. He said the brewery was then moved to Newtown in 1993.

“Due to liquor licensing issues, the brewery was ‘mothballed’ indefinitely in Garankuwa. The derelict brewery was then purchased by Brewhogs and completely refurbished in 2013 – and re-established in Kyalami, where it stands today,” said Martin.

“The 4 000-litre brewery now has the capacity to produce 32 000 litres a month, with the option to increase production with the addition of a further two fermentation tanks to 48 000 litres per month.”

He explained the beers were natural and preservative free with two different beers, a premium pilsner and original red lager.

Community members can try the beer at the tasting bar every Friday from 3pm to 5pm at the brewery which is at Unit 50, Barbeque Corner on Dytchley Road in Barbeque Downs.

Details: 011 466 0746 or info@brewhogs.co.za