Little Creatures Brewery

by Lisa Gammon
(Beer Delegate, QLD, Australia)

Ashley Hazell, brewmaster of Little Creatures Brewery in Fremantle, WA, looking smug. And why not?

Named after the crocodile farm that used to be at the brewery site lies one of a few Australian breweries where the brewers come from a biology and a chemistry background, giving them the "micro atomic advantage". This is Little Creatures Brewery in Fremantle, Western Australia.

THE BREWMEISTER: Ashley Hazell was kind enough to take this beer enthusiast for a brew tour which they don't currently run for the general public. But don't worry, they will expand in mid July and will start tours in August 2008.

"We import hops from the US and Tasmania as to not use pellets," says Ashley. "We use alot of Chez hops and Tasmanian hops."

THE BEER

Pale - 5.2% ABV This was a bit harsh and I couldn't drink too much of it.

Pilsner - 4.6% ABV This was very light and crisp making it easily drinkable.

Bright Ale - 4.5% ABV This was palatable.

Amber Ale - 3.8% ABV Even though it has a midstrength alcohol content, this was one of the smoothest Amber ales I have ever had. I recommend this one for anyone who goes there.

Cider - The sourness is dependent on the apple crop and this time was quite tart and quite enjoyable.

Little Creatures Brewery has found there is a market to expand its range and will produce a variety of ales, including porter and stouts. I really can't wait to try these.

THE BARMEISTER - Roo-dog

With his shaved head and mohawk, let me have a sampler for free.

THE BREW-PUB

I ordered a pizza and found the menu to be limited, making eating there a bit iffy for this journalist. However, they play great music and have an art gallery.

I give this brewpub full support.