Cascade Brewery

Brewery in Tasmania, Australia

Cascade Brewery in Hobart, Tasmania

Cascade Brewery is a brewery established in 1824 in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. It is the oldest continually operating brewery in Australia. The brewery is located in the foothills of Mount Wellington, providing a picturesque backdrop to its historic buildings and gardens.

History

Peter Degraves, founder of Cascade Brewery

The Cascade Brewery was founded by Peter Degraves, an Englishman who emigrated to Tasmania in the early 19th century. Degraves, along with his brother-in-law, Major Hugh Macintosh, established the brewery in 1824. The site was chosen for its access to pure mountain water from the nearby Mount Wellington.

Degraves was a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential for brewing in the colony. He designed the brewery to be self-sufficient, incorporating a sawmill and a flour mill to support its operations. The brewery quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality beer, and it became a staple in the Tasmanian community.

Architecture

The architecture of the Cascade Brewery is notable for its Georgian and Victorian influences. The main brewery building, constructed from local sandstone, is an iconic example of 19th-century industrial architecture. The building's facade features a distinctive clock tower and ornate detailing, reflecting the prosperity and ambition of its founders.

Production

Cascade Brewery produces a range of beers, including lagers, ales, and stouts. The brewery is known for its commitment to quality and traditional brewing methods. Cascade's flagship beer, Cascade Pale Ale, is a classic example of an Australian pale ale, characterized by its crisp, refreshing taste and balanced hop bitterness.

Environmental Initiatives

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Mount Wellington, source of Cascade's water

Cascade Brewery is committed to environmental sustainability. The brewery has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including water conservation measures, energy efficiency improvements, and waste reduction programs. The brewery's location at the base of Mount Wellington allows it to use pure mountain water in its brewing process, minimizing the need for water treatment.

Cultural Significance

Cascade Brewery is an integral part of Tasmania's cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination, offering tours that showcase the brewing process and the history of the site. The brewery's gardens are also a highlight, featuring a variety of native and exotic plants.

Fauna and Flora

The Tasmanian tiger, once native to the area

The area surrounding Cascade Brewery is rich in biodiversity. The brewery's gardens are home to a variety of plant species, both native and introduced. The nearby Mount Wellington is a habitat for many native animals, including the now-extinct Thylacine, also known as the Tasmanian tiger.

Related pages

• Hobart
• Mount Wellington (Tasmania)
• Thylacine