South Africa’s craft beer industry has come a long way in a short time. The first microbrewery in SA to turn commercial was Mitchell’s Brewery in Knysna in 1983. But it wasn’t until 2013 that this craft beer craze really began to take shape, with dozens of microbreweries popping up across the country.
This sudden surge in innovative new beer flavours left people wondering if this was just another fad or something that would reshape the alcoholic beverage industry as we know it.
More than 150 craft breweries and numerous local and international awards later, we can safely say now is the best time in South African history to be the ultimate craft beer lover.
What Makes a Beer a Craft Beer?
The main difference between craft beer and standard beer is in the name – it is crafted, not manufactured. The term “craft beer” was first used in the 1970s to describe a new age of small breweries using traditional methods to brew cask ale – unfiltered, unpasteurised, and served from a cask without added nitrogen or carbon dioxide pressure.
Craft beer, also known as artisanal beer, is made by independent breweries in smaller quantities. Craft brewing often uses unique ingredients not commonly found in mainstream beer production, such as berries, chocolate, and honey. Industrial beers focus less on unique flavour and more on mass production. While we still enjoy industrial favourites, there’s something special about a well-crafted craft brew.
Create a Craft Beer Experience with Thirst
We love our clients and go the extra mile by personalising events according to your needs. That includes stocking your favourite drinks and creating themed experiences. We also have various craft beer bar structures on offer. Having craft beer at your event is a great way to keep your party “hopping.” Here’s why:
1. Large Variety
No matter the occasion, time of year, or food pairing, there’s a craft beer for it. Each brewery makes beer in its own unique way with special ingredients. Part of the fun is trying different craft beers from across South Africa, encouraging guests to interact and share thoughts on unique flavours.
2. Better Ingredients
Craft beer often uses organic, high-quality ingredients. Brewers are passionate and focused on quality, unlike bigger breweries that prioritise mass production. While some large breweries innovate, microbreweries have more freedom to experiment.
3. Greater Alcohol Percentage
Most craft beers range from 5–10% ABV, but some reach 10–30%. Local industrial beers usually don’t exceed 6% ABV. Fewer beers mean fewer calories, mimicking the strength of Belgian and German beers for an authentic experience.
4. Craft Beer and Good Food Go Hand in Hand
Like wine, craft beers can enhance the flavour profile of meals. Hosting a craft beer experience at your event creates a memorable explosion of flavours worth talking about.
5. Support Small Local Businesses
Craft brewing requires dedication, especially when competing with industry giants. Drinking craft beer promotes entrepreneurship and supports passionate locals. Check out this list of Getaway’s top 10 SA craft breweries, including:
- Devils Peak Brewing Company
- Darling Brew
- Zwakala Brewery
- Cluver and Jack
Craft beer is here to stay, and it’s only getting better. Take your next event up a notch by offering some of the finest artisanal beers South Africa and the world have to offer. Cheers!
