Presenting a series of Sunday's showcasing the stories from Wine, Beer & Spirits of the Fleurieu.

These are reproduced with permission from Soul Publishing and Rojina Duval.

These stories feature prominent farmers, fishermen, producers and chefs – from Port Noarlunga to Cape Jervis – along with their favourite recipes and tips. Enjoy!

“I grew up south of Adelaide and always enjoyed weekend adventures with my family down to McLaren Vale – mostly stopping in at wineries for my dad,” says Lee Stone, owner of Shifty Lizard Brewing Co. “Years later, after returning from a nine-year stint in the UK, I decided that opening a craft brewery was all I wanted to do after experiencing the amazing beer scene in Europe.”

To do so, however, Lee needed a partner.

“Danny Strapps and I have been mates for over 20 years now,” says Lee. “Growing up in the picturesque Onkaparinga near Adelaide, we spent our days on our pushbikes and kicking the footy around the local football club. Fast forward to the present day, and you’ll come crashing into the pair of us combining talents and experiences to build a fine range of ales with a unique image.

“We made the decision to partner up and start our craft brewery back at the start of 2015. With Danny’s illustrations and my knowledge of beer it sounded like the perfect partnership. The brewery officially launched back in December 2016 and then the Tap House followed a year later!

“It’s a career choice that I don’t regret for a second – though it helps that when business becomes too stressful, I can always wander behind my bar and pour myself a pint!” Lee laughs, then adds, “I love that I can just go for a drive through the vineyards and hills. I don’t have to go far to find beautiful coastlines either, with some of Australia’s best beaches so close!’

“Our most recent news is that we have just launched Soul Bird Distilling, and our first bottled product is likely to hit the market soon, so our Taphouse has morphed into the Brewstillery!

“In terms of our new brews, we’ve launched our limited release Hibiscus NEIPA, and up next is the big, bold and juicy Yeehaaa New England IPA. Following that an XPA and then a new world Radler – called the Radleraide!

PAIRING

“Our silver award-winning Gila Monster IIPA is a big, bold and beautiful beast offering a huge burst of fruity flavour and depth! The 8% backbone and hint of spice make this guy best paired with a full-flavoured, red meat dish.

“Alternatively, Stouty McStout Face is a 5.5% bronze-winning dry stout. Coffee and chocolate flavours give this one a nice balance, while the sweetness from the crystal malt makes it a very easy-drinking stout. Best paired with chocolate and stout-infused ice-cream with a generous crumbling of honeycomb over the top!”

CELLAR DOOR

“The Brewstillery serves up gin-based cocktails in addition to our brews. Customers can try several of our beers in the form of a tasting paddle, or simply relax at a table outside the front of our shop with a pint of your choice or a gin cocktail, and soak up the country air. Feeling peckish? You can also grab a gourmet panini or a bowl of loaded fries from our delicious food menu. Both child and dog friendly, it’s the perfect answer for your next relaxing weekend.”

ADDRESS 33 High Street, Willunga

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