Brewing nicely
Taking Dad out for a beer and pizza is very rewarding
IT’S NO exaggeration to say that I’ve a wonderful father. The lovely Lawrie could never do enough for his only darling child. Even at my grand old age a quick call to daddy can guarantee a taxi ride, shelf up putting or a reliable shoulder to cry on. I’ve often wondered how and when I could possibly repay him. Well that day recently came with an invitation to Stewart Brewing, aka: Heaven in Loanhead.
Whilst obviously situated in an industrial estate, the largest craft brewery in Edinburgh has a beautiful set up. With a rather pretty outside seating area, a cool bar and pizza eatery and shop where you can buy beer and a funky t-shirt at the same time, it’s a great place to visit. We begin with a welcome beer. We were there to try three new offerings, Beinn Brewing, inspired by
Scotland’s scenic landscape, that will be stocked in Lidl at the bargain price from £1.59 a can. Dad opts for the Beinn Hazy (New England IPA) and not to my surprise, requests one of the cans on display rather than chilled, as he wants to ‘taste it’. Old school, but he has a point. I opt for the straight from the fridge Citrus Belter, conditioned with orange zest delivering a delightful, refreshing hint of fruitiness.
And then we’re onto the grand tour. I’ve been shown around wine caves and whisky bonds where silent magic is undoubtedly happening but seeing the action of a brewery is infinitely more exciting. Stewart Brewing have adorned their huge beer tanks (probably not the technical term) with some fabulous artwork. The hiss of the gas and industrial pipes are something of a turn-on, even for an almost beer virgin like me. Stewart Brewing have an eye-catching graphic colourful branding and it was quite something to see the blank cans piled high on pallets waiting to be adorned with their groovy labels.
Back to the hospitality area and the pizzas are wafting their deliciousness from the wood fired oven. Head Brewer Craig Scotland takes us through a tasting and his enthusiasm and knowledge of his craft is absolutely infectious. The beer is cracking and the pizzas divine! They even served a marshmallow and condensed milk dessert pizza. Genius, and perfect with Tropical Trossachs, a pale ale with sweet pineapple and ripe mango.
Should you buy Stewart’s new Beinn Brewing Lidl beers? Absolutely. Ought you to head for an evening of beer and pizza in Loanhead? Book it now. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with pals or a work jolly. You can even book a session to make your very own beer. I’ve some handyman jobs needing done round the house and it could very well be the tradesman/ dad’s reward.
Stewartbrewing.co.uk