Jump online, head on up and get into Katoomba’s for Mountain Culture Beer Company – number one on Untappd, top 10 for New Brewer of the Year 2020 Awards and RateBeer, and recently announced as Australia's best brewery.
Mountain Culture Beer hasn’t always had it easy. Only established in 2019, they faced the disastrous Australian bushfires and then the pandemic. The husband-and-wife duo Harriet and DJ McCready are now known for producing one of the best craft beer experiences, constantly pushing themselves when it comes to the uniqueness and quality of their production. The graphics on their tinnies are cool and the whole experience is too.
As you approach the building, it’s almost unsuspecting as a brewery. The historic structure with creamy white exterior and light teil profile is something to pause and admire. The original building was constructed in 1912 and has seen many different lives through the decades. Previously, it was fitted as a Civic Video, and as a nod to history, the McCreadys brewed Be Kind Rewind in memory – and it topped the national beer list!
When you walk inside, you’re greeted with an interior that is simple but elegant. Long timber benches sit out on an open-air back veranda, with simple tables and stools in the front and a long bar and kitchen in between. Make sure you ask what’s on tap because you might just be lucky enough to have a ‘one-of-a-brewed’. They are constantly creating limited run batches giving you an excuse to come on back.
If you aren’t an avid beer drinker, don’t worry, there is honestly something for everyone. Break the ice with a lager or go for the oak milk beer, if it’s in stock – so good. For those very familiar with the craft beer scene, grab a paddle and try a bunch of different flavours like we did, you can’t go wrong.
Mountain Culture is, first and foremost, a brewpub. The in-house kitchen cooks up a storm with American-style burgers or go for a bowl of sides like marinated olives. Great flavours that complement the Mountain Culture style.
Mountain Culture Beer is based on 23-25 Parke Street, Katoomba. With their growing following and word of mouth recommendations, they are planning to open another brewery in Emu Plains sometime soon. Keep a lookout for it and add it to your weekend bucket list.