New microbrewery opens in canberra

A new day has dawned in Canberra, and no, thankfully, it has nothing to do with politics. The city synonymous with politicians, roundabouts and fireworks is now home to an exciting new microbrewery and taphouse, BentSpoke Brewing Co.

Owners Richard Watkins and Tracy Margrain hope the brewery will become a local beer brand, with this reflected in the names of their brews the Barley Griffin, Mort’s Gold and Braddon Bitter, which pay homage to Canberra identities and landmarks.

One of Australia’s most respected and awarded brewers, Watkins has twice been crowned Best Australian Small Brewer at the Australian International Beer Awards.

“We’ve only just started to break in the brewery,” said Watkins. “Eventually we will boast 18 different varieties of beer and cider all brewed on premise, including cask conditioned real ales, lagers, seasonal one-off batches, and barrel aged Belgian styles.”

Hand crushed cider is another speciality of BentSpoke.

“We’re delighted with how our first cider has turned out,” said Margrain. “It was crushed here in Pialligo from Batlow apples, which given the season, is as local as you can get. With both our beers and ciders we’re delighted to be bringing a new artisan experience to this already vibrant neighbourhood.”

Beers will be available to purchase both over the bar and to takeaway in custom-made two-litre flasks, called ‘Travellers’.

With the brewery on full-display patrons can watch Watkins hard at work on the next batch as they sample the latest beer. Brewery tours, brewer talks, tasting paddles, and ‘meet-the-producer’ dinners are in the planning as the brewery ramps up production.