By James Atkinson
McLaren Vale Beer Company officially hits the 'brew' button at its new Willunga Brewery in McLaren Vale, South Australia today.
General manager of operations, brand and hospitality, Josh Stuart, said the new brewery will offer a more tangible story and focal point for locals and consumers.
"It further moves to reinforce our SA roots, with over 90 per cent of the team being of South Australian Heritage," he said. [continues below]
MVBeer head brewer, Jeff Wright in the new Willunga facility
MVBeer has been entirely contract brewed since the company's inception in 2008.
The new four-vessel, 35-hectolitre brewery is now fully operational and will produce all keg beer in the current Vale range, including VALE/ALE, VALE/DRY, VALE/DRK and VALE/IPA.
Stuart said the facility complements the brewer's McLaren Vale hospitality venue, the VALE/INN Taphouse and Kitchen, which will enable its locally produced craft beers to be served with matching food.
The company said it has experienced "tremendous growth" over the past three years, moving from a single-man operation in 2008 to having more than 15 full-time staff in 2012.
"The brewery development serves as a key part of the overall growth as the company continues to increase its sales and marketing footprint and produce more great craft beer for the Australian public," it said.