Mountain Culture Beer Co has rapidly emerged as a defining presence in the Australian craft beer scene. Founded by DJ and Harriet McCready in 2019, what began as a small penrith brewery in New South Wales, has grown into a nationally recognized brand with multiple production facilities, award-winning beers, and a loyal following of beer enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the Blue Mountains, Mountain Culture’s journey from a local brewpub to national distribution is a testament to the couple’s passion, innovation, and adventurous spirit.
Founding of Mountain Culture Beer Co
The origins of Mountain Culture Beer Co trace back to DJ and Harriet’s mutual love for both brewing and adventure. In 2019, after extensive travels and brewing experiences, they decided to establish their brewery in the picturesque town of Katoomba. The location was no coincidence—nestled in the rugged Blue Mountains, it offered the perfect blend of natural beauty and inspiration. This decision reflects the couple’s desire to combine their appreciation for the outdoors with their deep passion for crafting high-quality beer.
DJ McCready’s Brewing Journey
DJ’s brewing journey began in a humble apartment in 2007, where a friendly competition between him and his flatmate sparked a lifelong passion. What started as a casual hobby quickly became more serious when DJ began volunteering at a local brewery, gaining valuable hands-on experience. His brewing knowledge expanded significantly during his time in the U.S., where he led the experimental brewing program at Oskar Blues, one of the most influential craft breweries in the country. This experience, particularly in developing unique beer styles, would later influence his approach at Mountain Culture.
The Birth of a Dream in Europe
The idea for Mountain Culture was further cemented during DJ and Harriet’s travels across Europe. Visiting iconic breweries throughout the continent, they became inspired to create something of their own. The couple dreamed of a brewery that combined the traditional craft of brewing with a spirit of adventure, innovation, and community. Upon returning to Australia, they settled on the Blue Mountains as the perfect backdrop for their vision, giving birth to the dream that would soon become Mountain Culture Beer Co.
The Katoomba Brewpub
Mountain Culture Beer Co officially launched in 2019 with the opening of their brewpub in Katoomba. They transformed an old Civic Video store into a modern brewhouse, which quickly became a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The brewpub’s cozy atmosphere, combined with its innovative beer offerings, helped establish Mountain Culture as a rising star in the craft beer world. The location also embodied the adventurous ethos of the brand, offering a unique experience for visitors and craft beer enthusiasts alike.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Despite its early success, Mountain Culture faced significant challenges in its first year. The devastating Black Summer bushfires that swept across Australia in late 2019 and early 2020 posed a threat to the business. Additionally, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced the brewery to pivot its operations. DJ and Harriet quickly adapted by shifting their focus to online sales and distribution, allowing them to continue reaching customers despite the lockdowns and restrictions. This ability to adapt during trying times proved to be a critical factor in the brewery’s ongoing success.
Online Distribution and Innovation
With the pandemic changing the way consumers accessed products, Mountain Culture quickly embraced online distribution. This shift not only kept the business afloat but also allowed it to expand its reach far beyond Katoomba. The brewery continued to innovate with new and exciting beer styles during this period, including their now-iconic Cult Juice NEIPA and Status Quo Pale Ale. These beers quickly gained a following, helping to establish Mountain Culture as one of Australia’s most exciting breweries.
Expansion into Emu Plains
To meet growing demand, Mountain Culture opened a second production facility in Emu Plains in 2021. This expansion significantly increased the brewery’s production capacity, allowing them to distribute their beers to more locations across Australia. The Emu Plains facility also gave DJ and his team the space to continue experimenting with new recipes and brewing techniques, further solidifying Mountain Culture’s reputation for innovation and excellence.
National Distribution and Recognition
By 2023, Mountain Culture’s beers were available nationwide, marking a major milestone in the brewery’s growth. Their flagship beer, Status Quo Pale Ale, won the prestigious GABS Hottest 100 People’s Choice Award, cementing its place as Australia’s top beer. This accolade brought further attention to the brand, making it a household name among craft beer aficionados across the country.
Crafting Beer with Adventure in Mind
At the core of Mountain Culture’s success is its founders’ adventurous spirit. Whether it’s the rugged landscapes of the Blue Mountains or the bold flavors in their beers, DJ and Harriet have crafted a brand that resonates with those who seek out unique experiences. Each beer is designed to inspire, with flavors that reflect the couple’s love for the outdoors and their desire to push the boundaries of traditional brewing. This adventurous approach to beer-making has been a key factor in the brewery’s ability to stand out in an increasingly crowded market.
Innovation in Brewing
Innovation is central to Mountain Culture’s philosophy. From creating cutting-edge styles like their Wet Hop IPA to collaborating with international brewing legends like Sierra Nevada, the brewery continues to push the boundaries of what craft beer can be. DJ’s background in experimental brewing has allowed Mountain Culture to stay at the forefront of the industry, constantly introducing new and exciting flavors that challenge the status quo.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community
Beyond beer, Mountain Culture is deeply committed to sustainability and community. The brewery takes a responsible approach to environmental impact, implementing sustainable practices in their production processes. Additionally, they are actively involved in supporting the local community, using their platform to promote events, initiatives, and collaborations that bring people together. This focus on sustainability and community has helped Mountain Culture cultivate a loyal following of fans who appreciate both the quality of the beer and the values behind the brand.
The Fan Favorite Beers of Mountain Culture
Mountain Culture’s beer portfolio is as diverse as it is innovative. Two standout favorites are the Cult Juice NEIPA, known for its hazy and juicy flavor profile, and the award-winning Status Quo Pale Ale, which has become a national favorite. These beers, along with a rotating selection of limited releases, have earned Mountain Culture a reputation for brewing some of the best craft beers in Australia. Fans eagerly anticipate new releases, knowing that each one will bring something fresh and exciting to the table.
The Future of Mountain Culture Beer Co
Looking ahead, Mountain Culture shows no signs of slowing down. The brewery has plans for continued growth, with potential new collaborations and expansions on the horizon. DJ and Harriet remain committed to their original vision of creating a brewery that not only produces great beer but also serves as a hub for creativity, community, and adventure.
Pre-Order the 2024 Advent Calendar
For those looking to experience the best of Mountain Culture’s offerings, the 2024 Advent Calendar is a must-have. Packed with limited-release and fan-favorite beers, this advent calendar offers 24 days of craft beer bliss leading up to Christmas. Pre-orders are now open, and with the brewery’s growing popularity, it’s sure to sell out fast.
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