Bridge Street Brewery opened its doors in 2011 with legendary craft brewer Lex Mitchell producing a wonderful range of great brews.
Twelve years later and now under the experienced hands of Ryan du Toit, Bridge Street Brewery continues to follow Lex’s original recipes.
Ryan, a biotechnologist who has studied towards my masters degree at Rhodes University says that he has been lucky to have worked with some of the greatest brewers in the country. Like most craft brewers, Ryan started as a home brewer and found that his passion for brewing kept growing until one day he found himself a professional.
Ryan says; “I started off by enjoying a beer with friends but I found that what I really enjoyed was sharing my own crafted beer with my mates.”
Although craft brewing began its revival in South Africa way back in the 80’s and 90’s it only really took off in the 2000’s and Bridge Street Brewery was the first of its kind in the Eastern Cape.
British Style Cellar Beer
Not only was this brewery a pioneer in the region but it is also one of the only British style cellar maturation beer producers in the country. In fact one of the finest examples of an English Ale in South Africa may be found here, namely their Boar’s Head English Ale.
One of the key ingredients in these brews is Fuggel hops. Fuggle is revered as the classic English aroma hop that was and is still used in English Bitter. It produces an earthy taste and aroma.
East Kent Goldings, which are similar to Fuggel, are also used in the brews which also add to the earthy flavor but also add a spicy and honey taste.
“Beer is such a great beverage and the basic recipe has not changed for thousands of years. Craft beer is vegan and vegetarian. It is the alcoholic equivalent of mamas home cooked food. Ales in particular are good for your digestion,” says Ryan.
I have long been a fan of Bridge Street Brewery and their Black Dragon Stout is one my personal favorite.
Celtic Cross, Valley Light Lager and Suns End German Festbier are also served. Watch this space for more on each of these brews.
If you enjoy great quality craft beer and have an interest in English style brewing then this brewery is just up your alley.
“I am a passionate advocate of craft beer because they are made with much love and care and here at Bridge Street Brewery we have some great recipes and old fashioned brewing techniques that produce excellent beer,” says Ryan.
Visit Bridge Street Brewery at 1 Bridge Street, Baakens Valley, Gqeberha. Trading Hours are Monday to Sunday 11am – till late. Kitchen Closes at 9pm.To Book A Table Call: 041 581 0361
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