Valley Hops Brewing, a new independent brewhouse and rooftop bar has opened its doors — just in time for warmer days and balmy Brisbane nights. The team behind Fortitude Valley institution Cloudland is crafting top-notch beers on their Ann Street rooftop that celebrate local characters from the iconic neighbourhood.
For an independent brewery that unreservedly pays tribute to its neighbourhood and puts the people of the Valley at the core of its ethos, it makes perfect sense that Valley-trained brewer and beer-obsessive Josh Warren (formerly Green Beacon) is at the helm of the brand new brewhouse as Head Brewer.
“The Valley’s awesome and I’m excited to see people from the community coming up to the rooftop. It feels great to be open, to see people trying new varietals and enjoying the beers,” says Josh. “I can’t wait to try some new recipes out and see what people like.”
Josh is eager to celebrate the Valley’s people, places, and moments in time with his signature, house-brewed beers. The core range features a crisp, light-bodied lager called Diehards, a nod to the local rugby league team, Exhibitionist Tropical Ale, Fiesta Mango & Passionfruit Sour, Herbalist IPA, Interloper Hazy IPA and 21 Pubs Pale Ale.
In a first-of-its-kind for Brisbane’s brewing scene, all of the beer is crafted in a two vessel 15BBL brewhouse on a rooftop. Guests enter the glam brewpub via a lift, stepping out into the bar area featuring a beautiful metalwork arbour with creeping vines, large fire pit with built-in benches and a mix of wooden picnic style, booth and high bar seating — made for enjoying those Valley views. The venue’s design features stone, brick and metallic accents, in bold contrast to the verdant plant life. To complete the look, a bespoke leadlight takes pride of place behind the entire length of the bar, with a patchwork of coloured glass made by hand.
Alongside its signature brews, Valley Hops Brewing serves up a tasty menu featuring authentic flavours from the charcoal grill and wood fired pizza oven by chef Damian Falkingham. And the best bit — everything is bite-sized and designed to be eaten without a knife and fork.
Paul Janssen, General Manager of Valley Hops Brewing, says, “Our aim is to make beer that locals love to drink. We created Valley Hops Brewing to celebrate the wonderful playground and entertainment precinct that is the Valley. We think it deserves its own beer. Through our beers, we share stories of the people, places and times that have shaped the Valley throughout its fascinating history. We want to make the Valley proud to have its own beer, in a place people can enjoy drinking it. It’s great to see the mix of people coming in, bringing their mates, partners and family who aren’t into craft beer (yet!), which is why we offer premium wines, delicious food and a great experience for all.”
Valley Hops Brewing is now open, 7 days.