Beer-making techniques used from the 1800s and another from Ireland are the inspiration behind one of BeerFest’s newest stallholders.
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Malting Lagoon, from Coles Bay, is showcasing its beverages to the North for the first time, with owner Mark Kelly saying patrons will have five drinks to choose from.
“We have a California stream, which is an old style from California, which dates back to the gold rush. It’s a copper-coloured lager,” Mr Kelly said.
A “darkish” Irish ale, an “experimental” keg of cider and a pale ale that uses a “relatively” new hop from Australia will also be available.
Mr Kelly, with his partner Jen Hackett, moved back to Tasmania after 20 years on the mainland just 18 months ago and started a bed and breakfast on the East Coast.
“We’ve gone to BeerFest in the past as patrons and liked the event and thought it was our chance,” Ms Hackett said.
Mr Kelly has been home brewing for more than 25 years.
“It was a necessary part of existence at uni because you can’t afford to buy alcohol,” he joked.
“Now, when we moved back to Coles Bay we thought we could try and make something of it and it would go well with out little lifestyle down here.”
When Mr Kelly’s parties became popular with his friends, and the brewing capacity outgrew the home limits, he realised there was an opportunity to make something of his creations.
Malting Lagoon try to make beer that is well balanced and in a variety of styles.
“We try to make beers that go with food because that’s how we like to drink beer,” Mr Kelly said.
The duo said a lot of hard work goes into brewing.
“We’re at three of four kegs a brew and that’s tiny, but it can be seven-to-10 days work to make two kegs of beer,” Ms Hackett said.
Malting Lagoon said its biggest event so far had been attending Bicheno Food and Wine Festival.
“It’s been well received,” Mr Kelly said.
Despite predicted rain at the event, organisers say there is still a 100 per cent chance of good beers.
BeerFest starts at 2pm at Royal Park. Entry is $25 and online purchases can be made until 5pm, with gate sales also available.
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