December 9, 2016 is the 10th Birthday for Cowaramup Brewing Company.

Started in 2006 by Jeremy Good and Claire Parker, the brewery was one of the early pioneers of the craft brewing industry in the south west. And it almost didn’t happen!

“Jeremy was originally looking to run a pub, but I really wanted to run something a bit more family friendly, as we were a young family,” says Claire.

“We visited the region with some friends in 2000, and they thought the location would be perfect for a microbrewery. I had experience in working in Singapore’s first microbrewery, and Jeremy was passionate about all things beer, so we thought we would give it a go!”

Claire and Jeremy faced many challenges in just getting the business started- from finding and developing a site, designing (and redesigning) the building, creating the business plan, gaining Shire approvals and liquor licensing and getting that first brew just right.

“It certainly was a long 5 years,” Claire recalls, “There were several times we questioned if it was worth the effort, but, once we were up and running, we were both glad we stuck it out.”

Jeremy has been the head brewer for the last 10 years, and has created a reputation for creating high quality beer, with the Pilsener taking out the Champion Lager Award at the Australian International Beer Awards in 2011.

“We really focus on the quality and consistency of our product, which is why it is brewed and sold at the brewery and a few select bars and restaurants,” he says.

The third brewery to open in the region, it is popular amongst locals and tourists for its great food and service, family friendly atmosphere, picturesque rural setting as well as great beers,

The brewery offers six beers on tap – Pilsener, Hefeweizen, Lightsign Summer Ale, Special Pale Ale, India Pale Ale and Porter.

“My beer styles are certainly influenced by my English background,” said Jeremy “I grew up drinking English Ales. The Australian climate is also perfect for lagers and we were one of the first craft breweries in the region to produce a German style Hefeweizan. We have recently tweaked the Lightsign Summer Ale, so now it’s a mid-strength beer, offering our customers more variety.

For Claire, the 10 years of operation have been the top achievement.

“Having got through those first five years, working towards getting up and running was such an achievement. With the growth of the craft beer industry over the last 10 years, it is very humbling to have lasted all that time. We couldn’t have done this without all our great staff and the wonderful customers who have visited us over the past 10 years.”

For Jeremy, winning the award in 2011 for the Pilsener was the big highlight, but the Annual Beer Dinner is also a favourite.

“The Award was wonderful as recognition of the hard work over the years. The Annual Beer Dinner is a great social event. I really enjoy being able to meet other beer lovers, and share the passion for craft brewing.”

Going forward, Cowaramup Brewery hopes to introduce their quality beer to the growing number of craft beer enthusiasts.

“The growth of the industry over the last 10 years has been enormous, and we look forward to growing and improving our beer, while helping people to understand more about the beer brewing process, and just enjoy good quality beer!”

Cowaramup Brewery is open every day from 11am to 6pm. Weddings, birthdays and private functions can also be booked.

To learn more about how to brew a great beer, join Jeremy on a behind the scenes tour of the brewery! Meet with Jeremy, see the brewhouse and enjoy a lunch of food and beer pairing. Tickets are limited and must be booked direct with the brewery.