Cascade Pale is celebrating 190 years of production with a number of commemorative events including special labels, packaging and lighting up the Cascade Brewery in its signature green.
The Cascade story began in 1824 when pioneering industrialist Peter Degraves used a 2000-acre grant to establish a sawmill on the lower slopes of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington in South Hobart. But, eight years and a short stint in gaol later, Degraves turned the site into a brewery and Cascade was born.
Brewery Manager Jesse Cartwright said the local love that generations of Tasmanians have for Cascade and its Pale Ale is unparalleled. “Affectionately known simply as ‘Green’, ‘Pale’ or ‘Degraves Ale’ after its founder, Cascade Pale Ale has cemented itself into the history books as a Tasmanian icon,” he said.
“It was the first beer brewed at the site in 1832 and has been brewed on-site ever since – except for a three-month stretch in 1967 when production moved to Melbourne after the devastating Black Tuesday fires nearly destroyed the brewery.”
“While the style of the beer has changed with the times, it has always been brewed with the finest ingredients and is still brewed at full strength 5 per cent ABV.
Cascade Brewery is Australia’s oldest. The brewery and bar employ more than 80 people and help support hundreds of local businesses, standing as a unique example of Australia’s industrial heritage.
“Cascade has been enjoyed by generations of Tasmanians. This is because we use the freshest water from Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the finest ingredients, and have an enduring commitment to quality,” Cartwright said.
Only 6000 limited-edition slabs will be made, and will be available through independent retailers in Tasmania.