Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch’s purveyors of craft beer have bounced back post-earthquake and have indeed carved a niche for themselves in the bustling cityscape. Christchurch not only boasts a dreamlike scenic beauty but also proudly parades its enticing craft beer milieu. In recent years, this city has truly become a vivacious hub for craft beer enthusiasts. This is where seasoned beer aficionados and exploratory drinkers alike quench drink christchurch their thirst for well-brewed, flavoursome craft beer.
Kick-starting our city tour, we land at the doorway of ‘The Pegasus Arms’. This oldest residential pub of Christchurch, located near Cathedral Square, is well-known for its English-style ales and pub grub. To amplify your beer-drinking experience, you can enjoy live music performances, especially during weekends.
A short walk along the Avon River will lead us to ‘Cassels and Sons Brewery’. The owners, thoughtfully repaired the old brick buildings fallen due to the quake and today it serves as their clutter-free brewery and bar knit with wooden tables and a quaint indoor fireplace. Not to miss is their award-winning Milk Stout, perfect for late autumn afternoons.
Next on our list is ‘Volstead Trading Company’, modeled on a prohibition-era speakeasy. It provides a unique craft beer experience completely with its tile-and-wood décor and dim lighting. Committed to spotlighting the efforts of local Kiwi craft brewers, you’ll revel in your stout amid an ambiance of a bygone era.
Another jewel in Christchurch’s craft beer crown is ‘Three Boys Brewery’. Known for its keen selection of ingredients, this microbrewery has successfully etched its name among beer lovers. Their innovative approach to brewing often results in mouth-watering, limited-edition masterpieces. Be sure to try their Oyster Stout which witnesses the simultaneous use of freshly shucked Bluff oysters and darkly roasted malt.
Arguably the largest and most-adored brewery of the city is ‘Emerson’s Brewery’. Having honours of being one of the pioneers of the craft beer revolution in New Zealand, this place is a must-visit. Along with their palatable range of brews, the attached restaurant is also well worth a try.
‘Christchurch Adventure Park’ attracts the adventurous souls and beer enthusiasts alike. After a day of mountain biking or zip-lining, sit back at their bar ‘The Handle Bar’ and enjoy a range of craft beers and breweries on tap, all amidst the lush forest surroundings.
Finally, the ‘Riverside Market’ is a paradise for foodies and beer lovers. Among the plethora of food stalls, there are also excellent craft beer vendors who sell not only local but also international artisan beers, offering a mecca for those curious enough to venture into the labyrinth of flavours that is craft beer.
In conclusion, Christchurch offers a compelling blend of traditional and quirky spaces to delight in the charm of craft beer. Its brewery scene is effervescent and thriving, consistently delighting palates and minds with thoughtful brews and ambiances. So next time you are in Christchurch, venture into these havens to stimulate your senses and quench your quest for a delicately balanced, innovative beer. With every sip you take, you will find the craft beer scene of Christchurch a magnetically stirring place to explore.