By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A MUCH-loved locally brewed cider brand has proudly opened the doors of its first on-site brewery in Coldstream.
Napoleone Brewery and Ciderhouse had its official launch on Wednesday 3 September at their new home on St Hubert’s Road which will also produce their new craft beer, launched just under a year ago.
A full house of industry locals were invited to the event, with brewer Ben Waymouth and cidermaker Behn Payten sharing philosophies about the treasured local flavours.
“Everyone was blown away when they entered.
“It’s a creative space where we can really grow the brand, have people try the beers and ciders on site and evolve the products with customers’ taste,” marketing manager Simon Wright said.
A proud family establishment, Napoleone Cider contains fruit that has been estate grown for more than 65 years by three generations of the Napoleone family.
Prior to the move, the cider which began commercial release in 2008, was made at Punt Road Wines along the same road in Coldstream.
“We always intended to create a new home. The move to create it was an easy one as we have quite a following,” Mr Wright said.
Despite being just over five years old, the Napoleone ciders are in high demand here and in other countries across the world.
“It’s quite successful nationally and we are now exporting it to Asia,” Mr Wright said. The site also welcomes an intimate cafe and gourmet pizzeria, Meletos, managed by the same family who own highly acclaimed restaurants, Stones of the Yarra Valley and the Stables at Stones.
Visitors are welcomed to meet the brewer at 11am each Saturday. For more information, visit their website on http://www.napoleonecider.com.au/.
