After a recent trip to Rockhampton and Mackay I despaired a little about how slowly the beer revolution is progressing outside of Brisbane. They have some really great pubs up there, beautiful old pubs with lots of character - the sort of place you can really enjoy a beer. Unfortunately, the selection was pretty much, "We have both kinds - XXXX Heavy and Gold". About the only concession to the march of time is that you can get VB and a number of Foster's brands in most places. So, when last week I headed up to Stanthorpe for another work trip, I fully expected a similar run and took a stash just in case. I was surprised and delighted to discover that Stanthorpe's rapidly growing reputation for wine and other gourmet produce has spread to beer as well. The first surprise came at dinner at Vineyard Cottages & Cafe where in addition to a well-stocked wine list, host Peter Cumming had included a good selection of beers meaning I could enjoy a 2004 Cooper's Vintage Ale with my steak.
On my second night I was even more suprised to discover the Commercial Hotel. Billing itself as Stanthorpe's first wine bar, the Commercial is exactly the sort of character-filled old pub you find in most country towns - but with great beer too. The owners, Robert & Shayne Johnson, have restored it beautifully and stock a range of beers that would shame most pubs in Brisbane, in addition to showcasing the region's wines. What's more, they are looking at developing the range further and in December will be offering food that they aim to match.
There have been a lot of murmurings about a brewery opening up in the area and the old Oxford 152 brewery has even been moved up there - though I gather those plans have fallen through. Though, given the development of the wine industry and the tourist trail and high standard accommodation that's offered in the area, it can't be too long before a brewery moves in.