Thanks to an array of world-class wineries on its doorstep, Cape Town has always been a favorite destination for oenophiles. In recent years, however, the city’s drinking scene has been decidedly hop-heavy, with a plethora of breweries opening in the Mother City to slake South Africa’s thirst for artisanal ales. Here are a few breweries that will get you tapped into Cape Town’s craft beer movement.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Jack Black’s Brewing Company
Arguably the most accessible — and certainly one of the largest — craft brew companies in the country, Jack Black’s opened in 2007 when the micro industry in South Africa was just starting to rev up.
The brewery prides itself on offering a range of beers for every palate, whether you’re into easy-drinking pale ales or intense dark ambers. Its flagship Brewers Lager is a full-bodied, balanced beer, while its ominously named Skeleton Coast IPA pleases adventurous beer drinkers who appreciate a lot of hop-i-tude.
The taproom is always bustling thanks to a tasty food menu, with the homemade burger consistently winning rave reviews.
Woodstock Brewery
Located in Cape Town’s hip Woodstock neighborhood, at this brewery, you’ll always get a warm — if raucous — welcome. When its doors opened in 2010, Woodstock Brewery’s expertly crafted ales helped cement the district’s reputation as the city’s premier location for artisanal foods and drinks.
The taproom always features a few year-round beers, as well as taps dedicated to seasonal or specialty beers, offering a wonderful chance to try the producer’s take on sour beer and porter. While you’re visiting the taproom, you can order some pub grub, too.
Devil’s Peak Brewing Company
Opened in 2012, Devil’s Peak quickly became one of South Africa’s most award-winning craft beer companies. With a focus on innovation, its AfroFunk sour facility houses its impressive barrel-aging beer program and will give many Capetonians their first taste of trendy, old-is-new-again sour-style beers.
Try The King’s Blockhouse IPA, which is a hearty, hop-forward World Beer Award winner, or you can sample some experimental brews thanks to a rotating tap selection of barrel-aged, limited-edition picks.
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