Mass-produced liquor is just so passé. Just ask the multitudes disillusioned with bulk-manufactured drinks that now go out of their way to procure artisan ales, beers and spirits. What started out as a niche movement internationally is now a thriving trend on our local shores, seeing fresh produce markets and small outlets offering the wares of independent entrepreneurs.

“The vast majority of beers currently available are filtered, pasteurised, sterile liquids – the life is literally taken out of them before they reach the consumer,” says Brian Stewart, who recently took over the reins of Robson’s Beer at the Shongweni Brewery from its originators Sherene and Stuart Robson. A development economist by day, Brian has been a home brewer for many years and maintains that Robson’s beer is second to none when it comes to great taste and flavour.

“Our ales are unpasteurised and not artificially carbonated,” he says, explaining that the natural live product contains yeast for a slow secondary fermentation in the bottle. “The process of secondary fermentation provides wonderful fresh flavours and a pleasant natural effervescence which is similar to that of Cap Classique. The yeast continues to work in the bottle, slowly adding layers of flavour over time.”

Shongweni Brewery currently manufactures six beers, of which the Robson’s East Coast Ale is an undisputed favourite. “Our friends say it’s the beer to braai for,” jokes Brian, who says that the easy-to-drink beer goes down a treat with braaied lamb, beef and pork. Inspired by the micro-breweries of the American West Coast, the darker, chocolate- and coffee-flavoured West Coast Ale is also a perennial hit amongst quaffers and pairs exceptionally well with American-style barbeque spare ribs as well as spicy samoosas and rotis.

Brian is adamant that craft brewers have the advantage over bulk producers because of their flexibility and adaptability to the taste and demand of their consumers. “Obviously we do not have the capacity of the mass producers, but we indisputably have more fun!”

Other beers in the Robson’s range include: Durban Pale Ale, Pilsner, Wheat Beer and Fruit Beer.

Want to try it for yourself? In Durban, head to Unity Brasserie and Bar or The Steak & Ale in Umhlanga. Or visit the Shongweni Brewery Estate (B1 Shongweni Valley, Shongweni; 031 769 2061; www.shongwenibrewery.com). It’s also available at restaurants and bottle stores in major centres in the Cape, Gauteng, Limpopo and Free State.

By Annette Klinger
Photograph: Mediaviking