By James Atkinson
Carlton United Brewers has re-released iconic Brisbane beers Brisbane Bitter and Bulimba Gold Top for a limited time only.
Rarely sighted since the 1980s, CUB says the brands have been resurrected following the "breakaway success" of its new local Queensland beer, Great Northern, which was launched last year.
A strong performer from the outset, Great Northern sold more than 500,000 cartons in less than 12 months, the brewer says.
It says the beers will look as close as possible to their original packaging, with Brisbane Bitter featuring the 1979 'City Scene and Story Bridge' label, and Bulimba Gold Top maintaining its original blue and gold branding.
The beers return under the supervision of CUB's brewing operations manager Geoff Day, who says what was once considered old is now back in fashion.
"The success of Great Northern shows there's a craving for local beer brands. Now we’re going to mix a local beer with a vintage appeal."
"Although it’s a limited release, we’re expecting a very positive response from these beers. I think they will take people on a journey, not only down Brisbane’s great brewing past, but also remind them of their own past," he says.
Brisbane Bitter and Bulimba Gold Top were brewed locally at Yatala, Australia’s biggest brewery. CUB says Yatala's brewing facilities can produce limited edition brands alongside the production of 30 beers, one cider and 15 spirits.