Craft beer is a term which South Africans use to describe the majority of alternative (aka not South African Breweries Beer). These craft beers come in many different varieties, ranging from dark caramel stouts to light, easy drink blondes. In between one can find the pale, indian and red ales as well as the love it or hate it weiss beer (wheat based). Thankfully for those like me, who are tired of mass produced lagers, craft beers have seen a recent surge in popularity, resulting in a number of micro-breweries popping up. Some of the more well-known ones include Devils Peak, Robson, Darling and Clarens Brewery but, as I found out at the most recent SA on Tap craft beer festival, there are a number of lesser known breweries who are producing some great beers.
The SA on Tap festival is probably the premium beer festival, seeking to bring together a large variety of micro-breweries with the ultimate aim of showcasing what great beer South Africa has to offer. This year’s festival did not disappoint with an impressive line-up from around the country. In addition, a number of artisanal food stalls kept festival goers sated. The site was well laid out with tables under tarpaulins and hay bales near the stage. Bands played through a typical Durban sunny ‘winters’ day.
There were one or two areas which could improve. Limited availability of toilets and the somewhat testing location of the men’s urinals directly adjacent to the ladies toilet line were a bit of an annoyance. Food stalls also seemed to struggle with the demand and organisers should consider including a few more offerings at future events. These are, however, minor points and the day was definitely a success, with everyone I spoke to saying they had a great time.
There were some great beers and ciders on offer. The IPA from Devils Peak, Red Ale from That Brewing Co. (available on tap at Unity Bar and S43 in Durban) and Darling’s Slow Brew were expected highlights and kept a number of drinkers happy for the day. Mention must be made of Agars Brewery which was a particular stand out ‘unknown’ (unknown to my friends and I that is). We sampled the Stout, Red Ale and Blonde and all three were absolute crackers. The Red Ale was particular good with a great natural red colour and full bodied, hoppy, taste. The Blonde from Bassets Brewery was also a really good beer, being light in character but refreshingly tasty. Certainly a beer one could have a few of on hot summer’s day. On the cider side, the mixed berry and cherry ciders made by Clarens Brewery were the clear favourite among the ladies!
So if you’re a seasoned craft beer drinker or someone who’s interested to see what other beers are out there, I would seriously suggest you take note of next year’s SA on Tap festival date. You will not be disappointed!
