Brett Atkinson explores the craft beer pubs of Perth and Fremantle.
Hops-laden, assertive and downright tasty craft beers are surging in popularity in New Zealand, but two decades before that, Kiwi beer drinkers were exposed to well-named beers and breweries from Western Australia. Now a new generation of WA brewers are keeping the hoppy dream alive.
Here are six essential stops for the travelling beer buff:
* Sail and Anchor
64 South Terrace, Fremantle
This corner pub in Fremantle was actually the first incarnation of Matilda Bay Brewing in 1984, and while the brewery's original brands are now owned by multinational SABMiller, the Sail and Anchor's still one of Australia's finest beer destinations. With 43 taps, there is plenty of scope for the pub's own brews and a dazzling array of international guest beers.
* The Monk Brewery and Kitchen
33 South Terrace, Fremantle
Across the road, The Monk's a relative newcomer, but is already renowned for seasonal brews linked to beer festivals. It's a top spot for Oktoberfest or grab an outdoor table and a pint of The Chief, an India pale ale.
