Pot Luck: Mount Macedon Pale Ale from Holgate

The sleepy hamlet of Woodend, 45 minutes north of Melbourne on the way to Bendigo, used to be known for two things: its award winning vanilla slices and for being home to the largest (dead) fresh water crayfish in Victoria. Now it’s being put on the map for an even loftier reason, its very own craft brewery.

Holgate Brewery has been pumping out a top selection of craft brews over the past few years and have just installed a bunch of new kegs to keep up with demand. Their best seller is the Pale Ale, a honey coloured brew of Vienna Malt with caramel notes, nicely balanced with the piney hops courtesy of the Pacific North West.

A well balanced, easy drinking beer for all seasons. If you’re in the mood you can even drink it on tap at the new brewery (and try a vanilla slice while you’re at it.)

Mount Macedon Pale Ale is available from Purvis, Blackhearts and Sparrows, Bimbo Deluxe, Cookie, Atticus Finch and other good beer stores and pubs.

For more info visit www.holgatebrewhouse.com