Craft brewers are an inspiration. Most started in their garage or shed and through passion and tenacity brought their awesome brews to us, their customers. Like any business that is driven by people who love what they do and who go about their business professionally, many of these breweries have expanded into national enterprises.
One such brewery is the Cape Town based Jack Black Brewing Co. who have become synonymous with the craft beer revolution. With a dedication to quality, community, and sustainability, Jack Black Brewing has etched its name into South African brewing culture.
Origins and History of Jack Black Brewing
Jack Black Brewing Co. was founded in 2007 by Ross and Meg McCulloch, driven by a passion for great beer and a desire to bring the craft beer movement to South Africa. Inspired by their travels and the vibrant craft beer scenes they encountered abroad, the McCullochs returned to Cape Town with a vision: to create a brewery that emphasized quality ingredients, traditional brewing methods, and innovative flavours.
Named after the iconic American outlaw, the brand embodies a spirit of rebellion against the mass-produced beers that dominated the market. Jack Black Brewing quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to craftsmanship and quality, carving a niche for itself in the burgeoning South African craft beer scene. Over the years, the brewery has expanded its operations, continually pushing the boundaries of what craft beer can be while staying true to its roots.
The Beers They Brew
At the heart of Jack Black Brewing is a diverse and ever-evolving range of beers that cater to a wide array of palates. The brewery prides itself on using only the finest ingredients, including locally sourced hops and malts, to create beers that are both distinctive and delicious.
Jack Black Lager: This flagship beer is a testament to the brewery’s dedication to quality. With a rich, full-bodied flavours and a crisp finish, it’s a perfect balance of malt and hops, making it a staple for both seasoned beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Atlantic Weiss: A refreshing and aromatic wheat beer, the Atlantic Weiss features hints of banana and clove, typical of the style, with a smooth and creamy mouthfeel. It’s the perfect beer for Cape Town’s warm, sunny days.
Butcher Block Pale Ale: This American-style pale ale boasts a robust hop character with notes of citrus and pine. Its balanced bitterness and caramel malt backbone make it a favourite among hop lovers.
Skeleton Coast IPA: Named after the treacherous Skeleton Coast of Namibia, this IPA is bold and adventurous, with a strong hop profile and a blend of tropical and citrus flavours.
Pre-Prohibition Lager: A nod to the lagers of early 20th century America, this beer offers a rich malt character with a subtle hop bitterness, providing a smooth and satisfying drinking experience.
The Taproom Experience
Jack Black Brewing’s taproom (find them on Google Maps here) is more than just a place to enjoy a pint; it’s a vibrant community hub where beer lovers can gather to celebrate their shared passion. Located at 10 Brigid Road, Diep River, Cape Town, the taproom exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, with rustic wooden furnishings and a laid-back vibe that reflects the brewery’s ethos.
Visitors can embark on brewery tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, from the selection of ingredients to the final pour. Knowledgeable staff members are always on hand to guide guests through tastings, providing insights into the unique characteristics of each beer. The taproom also hosts a variety of events, including live music, food truck gatherings, and beer pairing dinners, making it a dynamic and engaging destination for both locals and tourists.
Seasonal and Experimental Brews
Jack Black Brewing’s range of beers extends beyond their core lineup, with seasonal releases and limited-edition brews that showcase the brewery’s creativity and innovation. These special releases often experiment with different styles, ingredients, and brewing techniques, offering something new and exciting for adventurous beer drinkers.
From barrel-aged stouts and fruit-infused ales to experimental IPAs and refreshing sours, the seasonal and limited-edition beers from Jack Black Brewing ensure that there is always something new to discover. This commitment to variety and innovation keeps the brewery at the forefront of the craft beer scene, continually surprising and delighting their loyal fanbase.
As an avid tippler and supporter of craft brewers I derive great pleasure from tasting seasonal and experimental brews. I recently acquired a six pack of Jack Black’s Fresh Hop IPA. Connoisseurs of the brewing arts know that a brew is at its best when fresh out the Tun. In the case of Fresh Hop IPA, Jack Black have gone step further to ensuring freshness.
Once a year during the short hop harvest window they use fresh Southern Passion hops from George and brew these hops on the same day they arrive from the harvest.
The result is a beer full of hoppy aroma and crisp and fresh on the palate. If you’ve ever eaten fruit straight of the tree (as opposed to off the shelf after days of travel and packaging) you’ll understand how mouth-watering this beer is.
For more information on Jack Black’s great brews click here. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
