The Village News
5 September 2018
Hedda Mittner
The Hermanus Brewing Company has done it again by winning a second gold medal at the National Beer Trophy Awards last week for their classic South African lager, Old Harbour Beer. Founders James and Di Rattle could not be more proud – although this year round they say it was a more stressful experience than the previous year, when winning gold came as a complete surprise.
“Once again we were up against all the big national breweries,” said Di. “The standard of competition was also much higher this year, so we had to score additional points to achieve gold.” She added that it was important for them to show the highest quality and consistency, proving that they didn’t just get ‘lucky’ last year.
Brewed at their micro-brewery in the Industrial Area from European barley and Southern hops, Old Harbour Beer is an easy-drinker that was a local hit right off the bat. “The last four years have been a whirlwind of hard work, dedication and sacrifice, but it has put everything in to make sure our brewery is a success,” said James, adding that it is most gratifying to know that they can hold their own nationally against bigger craft breweries.
“Since winning our gold medal in 2017 we have doubled our ‘on-tap’ venues and all the restaurants and bottle stores we supply have shown a significant increase in sales. We are most grateful for the huge support from locals and visitors to Hermanus.”
James and Di, who have been together for over 30 years and have three children, made the life-changing decision to relocate from Cape Town to Hermanus in 2010. He enrolled at the World Brewing Academy in Chicago and on his return he worked under Richard Hammond, who was previously the master brewer at Napier Brewery. Using concise German-based brewing technology and the considerable knowledge and experience of Richard, who is ably assisted by Jay Ndike, the Hermanus Brewing Company runs their micro-brewery in Hermanus Industria.
Since their first release of Old Harbour Lager in January 2015, the team hit the ground running and could hardly keep up with the demand. “When we started out some people thought we were crazy,” chuckled James, “but after the first year we had to double the size of our brewery.” Di is also involved full-time and prides herself on delivering a personalised hands-on service to all their clients while handling the sales, deliveries and marketing side of the business.
“We love living here and doing business with the wonderful people of Hermanus,” she said. “This is our Paradise.” And what about their plans for the future? “We have submitted a fabulous proposal to the Municipality to move our Brewery and Distillery to the New Harbour. We are still waiting for positive feedback,” said James.
Until then you’ll find the Hermanus Brewing Company at 11 Mimosa Street, Hermanus Industria. Contact them on 073 184 6076.
[Photo Caption]
James Rattle, Jay Ndike, Di Rattle and Richard Hammond celebrated the Hermanus Brewing Company’s second gold medal with family and friends at the brewery on Friday.