South African brewers toast to a growing beer heritage

This Heritage Month, South African brewers are celebrating more than just their craft; they are toasting to a rich heritage steeped in creativity, resilience, and community connection.

"Beer here reflects our maak a plan spirit," explains Craig Claassen, chair of the Craft Brewers Association of South Africa.

"If we can’t import an ingredient, we use what we have - and we make it work. That innovation is what sets South African brewers apart."

Although South Africa's craft beer sector is relatively young, emerging less than two decades ago, it is rapidly carving out its unique identity.

Brewers are increasingly experimenting with indigenous ingredients such as buchu and African wormwood, all while maintaining adherence to world-class quality standards.

Claassen highlights the importance of terroir—the influence of local climate, soil, and resources—in shaping the character of beers, much like it does with fine wines.

A heritage on tap at Triggerfish

Among the frontrunners in this exciting movement is Triggerfish Brewery, located in Somerset West, which recently marked its 15-year anniversary. Brewer François van Heerden shared, "Our success lies in combining resourcefulness with a dedication to quality. We’ve brewed more than 50 styles, from blonde ales to bold stouts and even a 13.5% Belgian strong ale. It’s not about volume for us - it’s about care, variety, and flavour.”

True to the ethos of South African brewing, much of Triggerfish’s equipment is repurposed, demonstrating ingenuity without compromising on quality.

"If an ingredient is more expensive but makes the beer better, we use it," Van Heerden insists, reflecting the commitment to elevate brewing standards.

A heritage of quality and responsibility

As brewers venture into new territory, the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) underscores the paramount importance of quality, consistency, and responsible consumption. BASA CEO Charlene Louw said, "South African beer has always been about community - from sorghum brews in villages to modern craft festivals. Today, brewers are proving that heritage can go hand-in-hand with responsibility. Beer is meant to be enjoyed in moderation, as part of our culture, not in a way that causes harm."

Brewing the future

Events such as Fools and Fans in Greyton and Triggerfish’s Winterfest illustrate the collaborative spirit between homebrewers and professionals in fostering South Africa's burgeoning beer culture.

Claassen notes, "For craft brewing to thrive, you need to encourage home brewing. It’s how many of us started, and it keeps the spirit of experimentation alive.”

As South Africans celebrated Heritage Day on Wednesday, the rallying cry from brewers across the nation is unequivocal: local beer transcends mere consumption.

It stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and community—an enduring heritage truly worth raising a glass to, responsibly.

BUSINESS REPORT