
Pale malts lend light bready characters and a lick of honey, too. We’ve also kept the bitterness low and the mouthfeel crisp, something accentuated by a handful of aromatic hops.
It’s wonderfully familiar in the pint - golden straw hues beam under a rocky head – and will be at home where ever quality froths are enjoyed.
Cold IPAs utilise a cool ferment to minimise ester production, maximising their hoppy impact. In this case, PL Brewer, Austin, opted for a Kolsch yeast (hence the ‘K’), which accomplishes the above, whilst keeping things crisp AF.
The grain bill helps with that, too - a blend of malted barley, oats and rice. Remember, we’re shooting for a snappy mouthfeel, not one laden with residual sugars. Mission accomplished.
Expect some cracking hop complexity, thanks to a myriad of additions throughout. The CRYO Citra is perhaps most present, with the remaining strains gifting bursts of orange and tangerine.
Well-integrated bitterness pairs with a stylistically dry finish. Enjoy kold and fresh.
Pirate Life is synonymous with West Coast IPAs, they're what we cut our teeth on as a brewery, and, after all these years, we still love drinking them - which should come as no surprise.
This one was crafted in collaboration with legendary US hop growers, @Yakima Chief and thoughtfully designed by PL Co-Founder, Red. Which, considering yesterday's announcement, makes it a pretty precious brew.
Redman’s delivered so many brand-defining recipes over the journey (including our iconic founding froths), and this one sits deservedly beside them. As you’d expect, there’s some stomping hop strains on offer, plus a sturdy malt bill to back it up.
Enjoy a golden pour and crystal clear filter. Aromas of citrus, pine, and biscuit waft from the collar, which settles thick and white. On the palate, it’s as bold as this big man himself, and that’s oh so fine with us.
Ok, party time….
This tidy reinterpretation of last year’s Deal or no Deal Hazy IIPA is tasting extra juicy after its b’day debut. Turns out a couple of weeks in the keg room has served it well…
Aside from a drop in ABV (11% to 8%), we kept the recipe the same: a solid blend of malted barley, wheat, and oats, and close to 100kg of hops – the majority introduced late and post ferment.
It pours sunny yellow. Expect aromas of tropical fruit, flowering indica, and resinous pine. To drink, it’s assertive and fruity, with well-integrated bitterness and a finish of ripe stone fruit.
Pineapple makes everything better, including this cocktail inspired ale…
There’s a fair whack of tartness on show, too, thanks to lime juice and an overnight lactic ferment. Enigma hops join chili powder in the kettle, gifting a suggestion of bitterness and spice – and that’s all this one needs.
Pale malts provide a hazy pour and a springboard for the tangy titbits to bounce off. Expect aromas of pineapple lollies and lime cordial + a flavour that’s tangy and fresh.
Pair with a wedge of lime. Salt optional.
Since establishing Pirate Life, we’ve connected with countless characters over a coldie. We love brewing, we love people, and it’ll never change.
This lager celebrates just that. An ode to Australia’s most beloved style, it’s crisp and uncomplicated. In other words, a beer that all your mates can get around.
Expect light malty notes, hints of citrus, and a clean, dry finish. Every time.
Now we’ll drink to tha
This fresh take on Cam’s Pina Colada Sour (which lit up taps back in September) is bright, tangy, and built for spring afternoons…
Each five thousand litre batch boasts 800kg of pineapple puree and 100 litres of lime juice. Both bounce nicely off the coconut additions, which present creamy and familiar in the glass.
Soft yellow hues are accompanied by a tropical fiesta of a bouquet – it really does ring true of the iconic cocktail. On the palate, find refreshing tartness and a swift a pine-lime character late.
Californian IPAs have played a pivotal role in our brewery’s evolution. Bright, aromatic, and bitter, they celebrate hops above all else, and that’s a-ok with us.
This Cali Connection champions four iconic US strains - Simcoe, Citra, Cascade and Centennial - which means you’ll cop a decent whack.
Complementary malts provide the ideal foundation, while flaked rice keeps the finish snappy and dry.
It pours honey gold with a crystal-clear filter. Expect archetypal aromas of citrus and pine, with lifted stone fruit notes. On the palate, it’s fresh and bitter, with an express pineapple character reminiscent of…
Along with being really fun to say, Superdelic™ is a belter hop variety out of NZ Hops. It’s championed here in our recent collaboration with Bintani, and the results are super tasty…
A delicate water profile ties in nicely with the grain bill, supplying golden hues and a gentle biscuity body. The mouthfeel is smooth, verging on creamy, and that’s more than fine.
There’s plenty of hoppy character on show, thanks to boil, whirlpool, and fermenter additions. They present juicy and fresh, and the Verdant yeast tastefully supports.
Expect aromas of tinned pineapple, kiwifruit, and red lollies - all drifting from a thick white head. To drink, it’s fresh and approachable (especially for a 7%er) showing more fruit, pleasant bitterness, and a pleasurably dry finish.
Artist Series release #14 features work from South Aussie local, James Smith aka. His piece is packed with vibrant colours and geometric shapes - an ideal match for the liquid in the tin.
In this case, that’s a 6.6% Hazy IPA featuring two belter US hops. The hero, Luminosa, comes bearing fruit (think peach, mango, & papaya) while Strata leans in for a supporting role.
Pale grains offer a yellow hue and notes of lemon sponge. The haze is sturdy and luminous when caught by light – a welcome visual link to the name and James’ design.
Expect a smorgasbord of tropical aromas (like the ones mentioned above) and a flavour that’s fruity and smooth. There’s a gentle Pina Colada vibe there, too.
The ‘X’ in XPA stands for ‘extra’ – something this hazy pale has in spades…
Wheat, malted barley, and oats give it a full body and luminous yellow hue. As you might expect, hops are front row centre, with US strains supplying a myriad of fruity characters.
A sturdy head gifts aromas of pineapple & mandarin. To drink, it’s full and fresh, showing tropical fruits, moderate bitterness, and a lick of resinous pine.
A nod to the highly drinkable pale lagers of Northern Europe, this beer is as approachable as they come.
Pale malts lend light bready characters and a lick of honey, too. We’ve kept the bitterness low and the mouthfeel crisp, something accentuated by a handful of aromatic hops.
It’s wonderfully familiar in the pint - golden straw hues beam under a rocky head – and will be at home where ever quality froths are enjoyed.
Cheers.
Batch #2 of this tasty lager pours cola brown thanks to a blend of pale and roasted malts.
Aromas of dark chocolate, sarsaparilla, and rye loaf drift from the collar, which is lively and tan.
It’s easy drinking and well balanced, showing clean malt flavours, hints of espresso, and a distinctive nutty quality late.
A dry finish (thanks in part to the addition of rice) is complemented by elegant roasty notes.
A stout’s roasty characters are the perfect match for gingerbread! So, in the interest of saving time, we’ve combined the two in this tasty, limited release…
Pale and specialty malts form a sturdy base and a deep brown pour – it’s the same grain bill as our flagship stout, which is a win for existing fans. NZ and German hops provide fragrant lift, something accentuated by the natural gingerbread flavouring, which spurs images of a freshly baked tray.
Expect aromas of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and of course, gingerbread biccies. To drink, it’s full and rich, showing more of the above (much more) and a lingering finish of spice.
Yum.
No style better highlights the interplay between malt and hops than an Extra Special Bitter. And while that sounds a hefty claim, we’re confident you’ll agree after tasting ours…
Like all good ESBs, it’s the grain that draws you in. We went with a blend of Pale, Munich and Biscuit malts for a rich and toasty base.
NZ, US, and UK hops bring a lot to the party, too - including a nice whack of bitterness - while a dual ferment with US-05 and W-34/70 offers floral & fruity characters.
It’s got a gorgeous golden hue and a bold aroma – think dried fruit, milk chocolate, and wheatmeal biccies. To drink, it’s full and flavoursome, showing caramel fudge, toasted malt, and a hint of bitter orange late.
This beer has all the qualities of your go to lager, with a couple of subtle differences…
Brewed out of PLHQ in Port Adelaide, it pours choccy brown, thanks to a blend of specialty malts.
Hop varieties Pacifica and Spalt lend mild bitterness and earthy notes, while a clean fermenting yeast pulls it all together
Expect aromas of biscuit, dried fruit, and treacle. On the palate, find notes of allspice, choc-malt and freshly baked rye.
Pair with an autumn afternoon.
This collaboration hazy pale with the legends at the Fremantle Football Club is packed with juicy fruit characters!
A blend of pale malt and oats gives it a smooth body and sunny orange hue, while Aussie, US and NZ hops join forces to get the job done.
Expect tropical fruit aromas, mellow bitterness, and a refreshing fruity finish.
This tasty, limited-edition stout is the perfect accompaniment to Easter lunch – if Easter lunch is a plate of choccy eggs…
Brewed with a blend of pale and specialty malts, it has a rich chocolatey hit, thanks to the addition of cocoa, roasted cacao powder, and natural chocolate & caramel flavours.
Expect a dark brown pour and aromas of mud cake & espresso. To drink, it’s full and rich, with pleasing roasty characters and a long, sweet finish.
This combined b’day / Artist Series release features work from South Aussie legend, Wendy Dixon-Whiley. The piece was inspired by her epic Rosina Street Mural, which she completed last November in partnership with PL and the Adelaide Fringe.
The beer, a 6.2% barrel-aged saison, spent just over four months on Ex-Sparkling wine casks – their oakiness pairing beautifully with the characterful farmhouse yeast and stone fruit additions.
Prior to packaging, the aromatic liquid went through a secondary ferment, eliminating some of the more unruly volatiles accrued during its time on wood. And things are looking pretty schmick…
It pours sunny orange, with a wave of brisk bubbles. Expect aromas of spiced peach and scrumpy cider – highlighted further by the Enigma and Nectaron hops. The palate is wild and fresh, showing crunchy nectarine, fine tartness, and a lick of cinnamon late.
Everyone’s got a ginger crush. We just decided to put ours in a can…
Expect a warming tickle from our latest brewed alcoholic beverage, thanks to a hefty dose of ginger. Additions of lemon juice lift the offering, while monk fruit extract lends a gentle sweetness.
It pours honey gold with a bubbly head. Enjoy aromas of ginger root and squeezed lemon. On the palate, it’s fiery and fresh, with a lick of tartness and a comforting kick.
Ahem, from the ginger, that is…
It’s sunny yellow, judiciously hopped, and twice the size of our flagship pale. What more could you want?!
As well as doubling the recipe, we replaced Taiheke hops with Amarillo - an ode to South Coast’s maiden iteration, the Light House Pale. Nostalgia aside, it’s a punchier variety, and cuts through the extra with ease.
The malt bill’s the same (there’s just more of it) and we’ve stuck with Verdant Ale Yeast, too. After all, it’s not a South Coast without those juicy stone fruit esters.
Expect that classic yellow hue and a sturdy haze. Aromas of citrus and peach waft from the collar, which settles fluffy and white. To drink, it’s fruity and plush, with pleasant bitterness and oodles of South Coast charm.
The bulk of our cask-aged releases are imperial stouts and fruited goses, so this Czech Style Lager has us chomping (or is it champing?) at the bit…
All up, it spent three months resting peacefully in our Baker Street barrel hall. Four thousand litres on Adelaide Hills ex-chardy casks, and the remaining thousand on ex-whisky, port, and sherry butts – courtesy of our mates at Limeburners, WA.
Back in the cellar, it copped a decent filter and carb, and the results are wonderfully complex…
Expect golden hues and a crystal pour. Aromas of American oak and pear crumble drift from the glass. To drink, it’s medium-bodied and crisp, with honey sweetness, delicate spirit, and a smattering of thistly ribes.
Love a tart and fruity sour? Get a load of this blushing beauty…
Brewed with pale malts and Aussie hops, it’s got a swift tangy hit, thanks to a lacto sour and copious fruit (and root!) additions.
Pomegranate juice, ginger juice, sweet orange zest, and orange concentrate join forces to get the job done, and the results are refreshing AF.
It pours peachy blush with a gentle haze. Expect aromas of squeezed OJ, pomegranate molasses, and that textbook lacto funk. To drink, it’s fresh and tart, showing pink grapefruit and a tickle of ginger late.
This brewed alcoholic beverage is bursting with lemony vibes…
Crafted at PL Port Adelaide with quality malted barley, it’s been hit with two hundred and sixty litres of lemon juice for a bright and tangy lift. A hint of sweetness helps offset this, while natural fruit flavours put a bow on it all.
It pours a deep yellow with a crisp head of foam. Expect vibrant citrusy aromas. To drink, it’s crisp, bright, and just the right amount of tart, making it the ideal summer bevvy.
It seems there are very few things in life that are simple these days, especially in the world of beer. Everywhere you look it’s hazy this, adjunct that, milkshake, smoothie, thick shake, cereal juice, fruit puree, lactose... It’s a bit much.
Which is why, most brewers, at the end of a long shift of tossing things once reserved for Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory into the fermenters, just want to sit down and wrap their hand around a glass of something cold, clear, and uncomplicated.
This beer was crafted with traditional ingredients, using traditional techniques. It is made for people who want to sit down with a beer that demands far less attention than the person sitting across from them.
Water, malt, hops, yeast... German Perfection.
The Australian Sparkling Ale has a rich history down-under, it is, after all, our only ‘native born’ style. There’s a few tasty examples in the market today and we reckon this one’ll tuck in nicely…
A blend of specialty pale malts lends a golden hue, chewy bread-like characters, and rocky head of foam. We recommend a glass, if only to cop a squiz.
Aussie hops, Galaxy and Pride of Ringwood, are showcased nicely, too, gifting herbaceous notes and a welcome lick of bitterness, while the Cream Ale Yeast Blend offers an array of fruity esters.
We gave it a proper carb, so (along with a moreish taste) you’ll get that trademark sparkle on the tongue. You bloody ripper.
We teamed up with one of Australia’s oldest distilling families to bring you a refreshing take on the Sidecar cocktail.
Brewed in the heart of Port Adelaide with pale malted barley, wheat and oats, it has been blended with a select brandy parcel from SA’s iconic St. Agnes Distillery.
To achieve the tartness synonymous with the drink, we gently soured the wort using Lactobacillus, then added lemon juice for a final tangy flourish.
It pours a shimmering bronze. Expect aromas of stewed lemon and brandy spirit, with lifted notes of baked biscuit. To drink, it’s deep, citrusy, and brimming with old world charm.
Love a juicy peach? Partial to an IPA? Sus this spring release, it’s as plump as they come…
Pale malts lend a clean foundation and hazy, golden hue, with US and Aussie hops tastefully elevating additions of white peach puree. Mmm.
Verdant yeast gifts a lick of apricot, too, resulting in a wonderfully aromatic offering – one sure to satisfy fans of India Pales, fruited ales, and NEIPAs alike.
Expect a bouquet of freshly cut stone fruit, with lifted notes of lemon zest and vanilla. On the palate, it’s swift and fruity – conjuring imagery of peach juice dripping delicately down the arm.
A blend of lime and cucumber gives this beer a refreshing hit. And for the record, it’s as cool as a…
We’ve been using the same malt base for our sours since 2019 – pale malt and wheat – this lends a clean foundation, allowing the additions to take centre stage.
In this case, that’s lime in the form of puree (post ferment) and natural cucumber essence, which is introduced to the brite tank prior to packaging.
It pours light hay, with a shimmer of green. Expect aromas of sweet citrus and cut cucumber. The palate is everything you’d expect: tangy, bright, and oh so quenching.
The crew at El Camino Cerveza have been serving up legendary Tex-Mex for years. And now they’ve got a beer to call their own…
This Mexican-Style Cerveza was brewed at Pirate Life HQ using a blend of Pilsner Malt and rolled rice. This gives it a light body and crisp, dry finish.
NZ hops were selected for their vibrant citrus characters, something elevated by the addition of lime juice and lemon peel.
Expect a straw-like colour and a white head of foam. Zesty aromas of cut lime bounce from the tin. To drink, it’s bright and fresh – the ideal accompaniment to El Camino’s turbocharged menu.
After a sumptuous summer pale? Brew dos with the legends at Knobby’s is ripe for the plucking…
It pours like liquid sunshine, settling golden in the glass. Expect aromas of ripe mango and citrus, with lifted spearmint notes. To drink, it’s gentle and fruity, showing mellow bitterness and a packet of juicy vibes.
Go on, pluck it.
This limited-edition Belgian-style dark ale spent thirteen months aging on Adelaide Hills cherries.
Brettanomyces – a wild yeast strain – was also introduced, spurring a secondary ferment with compelling results.
Expect a deep cherry pour, vibrant carbonation, and the distinctive characters only ‘Brett’ dare deliver.
Presented in a bespoke, crown sealed bottle, this rare and curious gem will both delight today and reward with careful cellaring.
Artist Series release no. 12 features work from Adelaide based painter, BZRK•ONE (aka Jake Fuss) and is an acute collision of crafts – something this grass-roots initiative continues to deliver.
The beer, a cherry juice infused wheat ale, spent the last 10 months on ex-chardonnay casks; taking up the oak (and its previous contents) with measured enthusiasm.
On sampling the de-racked liquid, we caught hints of Brettanomyces, so left it in the tank to mellow. Coz when Brett rocks up, you let him party till he’s ready to leave.
The finished beer pours maroon with a cushion of foam. Expect aromas of dried cherries and plum, with flickers of farmhouse funk. On the palate, more cherry, spritzy carb, and a lick of buttery oak.
This easy drinking draught was brewed by Pirate Life in partnership with the Fremantle Football Club and is a proud celebration of all things ‘Freo’.
Premium Aussie malt gives it a light foundation and hint of sweetness, while NZ and US hops gift notes of stone fruit and citrus.
Crisp, refreshing and built for game day, it’s best sipped ice-cold as the mighty Dockers take centre stage. Cheers!
This tasty dark lager pours dark brown thanks to a blend of pale and roasted malts.
Aromas of biscuit, chocolate, raisin, and tropical fruit (thanks to Motueka hops) drift from the collar, which settles thick and tan.
It’s easy-drinking and well-balanced, showing clean malt flavours, notes of dark chocolate, and a distinctive nutty quality late.
A dry finish (thanks in part to the addition of rice) is complemented by elegant roasty notes.
This year’s ice-beer is a beast unto itself…
Instead of blending an array of beers like previous batches, we brewed an imperial stout especially for the project. This gave us more control over the final outcome.
An increase in the freeze distilling temperature (from -30°C to -11°C) led to a notable drop in ABV. That’s right, this one settles in at 16.4% - though we reckon it’s still best shared.
After being extracted from its glacial mass, the concentrated liquid was returned to the cellar, where it rested on vanilla for just over a month.
It pours rich brown. Expect aromas of brewed coffee and choc-dipped orange, with lifted herbal notes. To drink, it’s elaborate and fiery, showing blackstrap molasses, vanilla, and a tickle of phenolic spice.
This Red IPA offers the palate a reassuring squeeze, serving up truckloads of familiar flavours. Go on…your tongue deserves a hug!
You’ll find a warming blend of pale, caramel & roasted malt, and a big smack of tropical fruit from the hops. A hardy British Ale Yeast ties things up nicely, offering tasty esters and a well-balanced 6% ABV.
It pours deep red and fiery. Expect aromas of toffee dipped pineapple and peach.
To drink, it’s bold and lively, with swirls of fruit salad, well-integrated bitterness and a full, lengthy finish.
Back in January, we racked 4,500 litres of Lime Gose into premium Aussie sparkling wine barrels.
It’s the third time this recipe has seen wood, and given the results, won’t be the last.
You can thank Aitor Nieto-Cortes for the liquid (a careful blend of pale malts, Motueka hops, Native Finger Lime, and table salt) and Sammy Petering for managing the casks – all twenty of them.
Their contents were sampled periodically (and the details recorded) before being returned to the cellar as a blend. It’s always an anticipated moment, retrieving beer from those oaky cocoons…
It pours peachy green, with a cloudy head of foam. Expect aromas of lime cordial, young oak and raspberry jube. There’s a flicker of soy in there, too. On the palate, lime zest and brown sugar pairs with a pleasing zap of salt.
All this activity and still delightfully refreshing. Lime spider goes long on the finish.
Just what this blustery weather calls for - an Imperial Brown Ale loaded with flavour.
What’s that? It’s a Burton collab too?! Even better.
Nine malt variants give it a sturdy backbone and dark toffee hue, while Columbus and Fuggles hops gift earthy notes. Of course, it ain’t a stack without maple syrup - we went with 50 litres in boil, courtesy of our good mates at Slopeside Syrup.
Glug, glug.
Once poured, you’ll get aromas of caramel fudge, pot coffee, and baked oat slice.
The palate is viscous and rich, spurring imagery of maple syrup flowing from the pancake’s edge - which is kinda what we were shooting for.
Every good beer and whisky tells a story, one that begins with malt and water. That's where the similarities end and the stories head in different directions.
Where beer enjoys a cool, calm and short-lived journey, whisky's path is one of patience and measure with the barrels aged for years at a time. Within this beer these two tales weave themselves back together.
Pour it with relish, and be greeted by the sublime, silky oak barrel scent of fine malt whisky, vanilla, peat smoke, pine needles and chocolate coated honeycomb.
Take a sip and the palate reveals the rich, decadent stout you'd expect, but with a surprising umami quality, sweet spice and gentle acidity.
Like a great whisky, this beer transforms as it slowly warms in your glass. Those with patience will discover that much like ageing whisky in a barrel, if kept in a cool, dark place this Stout will continue to evolve and surprise.
As far as we’re concerned, there aren’t enough Black IPAs in the world, especially
imperials. Here’s a take on one of our favourite styles…and just in time for GABS!
A hefty, almost ‘Belgian’ malt bill gives this beer a solid foundation, and a wicked dark brown hue. US hop strains, Columbus, Centennial, and Simcoe bring herbaceous and piney notes, while molasses and Amber Candi Sugar lend richness and depth.
Expect a complex bouquet of espresso, mandarin, treacle and sticky resin – blessings from the malt, hops and Abbey Ale Yeast. To drink, it’s deep and expressive, with lashings of dark chocolate and a curly mid-palate bitterness.
IBIPA? Uh huh.
It's a common sight down under, those wheat fields plump wth crop. Rows of golden stems horizon bound.
For us brewers, it's a celebrated seed and the bedrock of many a cracking beer.
With that in mind, we crafted Sunlit using a healthy dose of Aussie wheat, fragrant hops, citrus zest, and a clean fermenting yeast.
The result is a luminous ale that's well-balanced, approachable and (much like the grain itself) best plucked fresh on a summer afternoon.
This specialty stout takes inspiration from one of Australia’s most iconic treats. Fancy a raspberry lamington after tea? Yep, so do we…
Brewed with a hefty blend of malted barley, wheat and oats, it is full-bodied, smooth and packed with familiar flavours, including raspberry, vanilla, cocoa, and a welcome sprinkling of coconut.
Don’t forget, it is a stout, so expect a decent whack of dark chocolate and coffee aromas, too.
Since dropping Mosaic back in 2017, we’ve brewed close to twenty single hopped IPAs.
Our latest, Azacca, celebrates the US hop strain of the same name and is brimming with character.
A simple grain bill of Pale Malt and Carapils gives the beer a golden hue and a hint of residual sweetness, while hot and cold side hop additions combine to get the job done.
Expect aromas of pineapple, peach and pine. To drink, it’s full-bodied and clean, with a sturdy mid-palate bitterness and a lick of candied pawpaw late.
Quad muscle? Nah. Quad bike? Cool. Quadrupel? Oh, god yes!
Inspired by the Trappist brewers of Belgian, Quadrupel refers to a beer rich in flavour, complexity and (without glamourising it in any way shape or form) ABV. This is our first as a brewery and we’re quietly chuffed with how it’s turned out.
A blend of Pale, Toffee, and Crystal Malts gives it a hefty backbone and a deep caramel hue. Perle and Spalt hops lend a tickle of bitterness and earthy notes, while a combo hit of molasses and Dark Belgian Candi Sugar lends a syrup like viscosity.
Once poured, the nose is greeted with aromatic esters of raisin and clove studded baked pear – thanks to the Belgian Abbey Ale yeast. The palate is loaded with ginger snap biccies, cinnamon, and bread & butter pudding, which sounds like a mouthful, and guess what? It is.
A bloody tasty one.
As the label suggests, this specialty IPA (developed by PL Brewers, Aitor Nieto Cortes and Jake Haysman) is like settling down into a bed of fluffy clouds.
Did we say clouds? We meant hops…
It’s got a monster grain bill (including Vienna Malt, Chit Malt, wheat and oats) and a good whack of new season Mosaic, Simcoe and Citra. There’s even a few drops of vanilla for a delectably fragrant boost.
It pours sunny hay with a persistent haze. Expect big aromas of papaya, mango and
lychee, with notes of milk bottle lollies. The palate is full and sweet, showing more tropical fruits, vanilla, and a long, juicy finish.
Take two of this Herculean brew (conceived in collaboration with local eatery, La Popular Taqueria) spent over five months aging in choc-bourbon barrels, and the results are delectably complex.
Much like the previous batch, ingredients from La Pop’s Mole Negro (a dark and luxurious Oaxacan sauce) are on full display – think cocoa, traditional spices, and four (yep four) chilli variants, to name a few.
As for the casks, all nineteen had their interiors flamed, then doused with a solution of cocoa and water prior to filling; a process designed to impart greater flavour than oak and spirit alone.
It pours jet black with cola highlights. Expect aromas of molasses, dark choc-hazelnut, bourbon
soaked raisin, and spice. On the palate, we find more of the above - much more - along with hints of espresso, plantain, and smoked chilli, too.
Partial to a stout? Uh huh, and a brick of choc-coated honeycomb? Nice, check this bevvy out…
First off, we layered nine (that’s a lot) grain varietals in the mash, then hit it with a good dose of cocoa. That distinctive honeycomb taste comes from Belgian Dark Candi Sugar - a bit of brewing wizardry for the win.
It pours deep brown with a tan head of foam. Expect aromas of choc-honeycomb and espresso. On the palate, we find the perfect balance between roasty and sweet, with lifted notes of toffee and choc-caramel.
Go on, treat yourself.
This Rice Lager was developed by PL brewer James Russo, and is our first official crack at the style. We’re calling it Russ Lager down at the brewery, but you don’t have to.
Brewed with Pilsner Malt, Acidulated Malt and a good whack of flaked rice, it’s been hopped with Motueka and Sorachi Ace. A full month in tank (that’s two weeks fermenting on German lager yeast and a further two conditioning) has delivered refreshment and complexity in equal parts.
It pours golden and crystal clear. Expect aromas of frangipani and rice pudding, with lifted notes of dill. On the palate, it’s clean and savoury, with sharp carbonation and a mild, lingering bitterness.
This recipe was developed in collaboration with Aussie sporting hero (and all-round legend) Erin Phillips. It’s a nod to her time in Texas - where she played b-ball, met her now wife, Tracy and, as it turns out, drank a lot of iced tea…
Brewed with pale, toffee and roasted malts, it’s been infused with over twenty-five kilos of fragrant Dilmah tea. Peach and lemon puree were added post fermentation, along with a further dose of tea, natural peach essence and citric acid for a zesty lift.
So, if you’re partial to a brewski (and a refreshing iced tea like our bud, Erin) do yourself a favour and cop this beer. A cappella now, “Peaches come from a can…”
Packed with real strawberry and natural fruit flavours, this brewed alcoholic beverage is über refreshing and can be enjoyed from the can or over ice.
We reckon a sprig of fresh mint works well and recommend playing around with the mix. You’ll just have to ask yourself, ‘What’s my ideal Crush?’ Ahem, we’ll leave that one there.
How ever you land, expect waves of freshly cut watermelon & ripe strawberry, a hint of natural sweetness and a crisp, fruity finish from the liquid itself.
Remember, it’s just a little Crush.
We pack over two hundred and thirty kilos of real passionfruit, pineapple, and mango into every batch of our Tropical Crush, making it one juicy beverage indeed.
It’s naturally brewed and can be sipped from the tin or enjoyed over ice. We like a tall glass - cause that orange colour is simply too good to ignore.
Whatever the method, expect a wave of real tropical fruit, refreshing tartness, and a crisp, fruity finish.
Remember, it’s just a little Crush.
Brewed collaboratively with Sydney based brewery, White Bay, this Imperial IPA represents 7 years of friendship, shared ambition and guidance. Our roots run deep with these guys, in fact Jess Walker (one of their most talented brewers) was part of our founding crew at 89 South Road.
The beer itself was crafted at White Bay on the Balmain Peninsula and is a winning blend of our respective styles. Pale malt, wheat and oats supply the base, with crowd favourite hop strains Motueka (NZ) and Mosaic (US) kicking off intense fruit characters.
It pours a golden hay with a gooey head of foam. Expect aromas of blackcurrant, tropical punch and sticky pine. On the palate, find more fruit (think apricot and mango), a full and lively mouthfeel, and a mellow bitterness which lingers delicately on the tongue.
If Pivotal Moment means ‘shift in direction’, then we very much like this direction…
This session ale was developed by two brands who live life their way and should be enjoyed wherever good vibes reside.
Brewed with pale malts and quality hops, it’s mid-strength and comes in a one-off tin designed by Aussie artist, Nick Curl.
You can expect a sunny yellow pour and aromas of tropical fruit.
On the palate, clean flavours pair with bright carbonation and a refreshing finish.
No. 11 in our artist series features work from South Aussie painters, Elizabeth Close and Thomas Readett. The original piece (located at Adelaide’s Railway Station) was completed in partnership with the Adelaide Fringe and Pirate Life back in 2021.
It was our job to craft a beer that did justice to the label’s beautiful linework, which depicts SA’s unique topography, the power of community and banter amongst mates – courtesy of some adorable native frogs.
We started with malted barley, wheat, and gypsum forward water in the mash. The wort was then hit with Nectaron and Idaho Gem hops before being sent to tank. There, it was united with a hardy ale yeast. A further whack of pellets post fermentation secured an intense & punchy bouquet.
It pours deep gold with a creamy head of foam. Expect aromas of stewed stone fruit and red berry, with lifted notes of spice. On the palate, it’s dank and fat, showing solid bitterness and a slathering of tropical fruit. Toffee malt goes long on the finish.
This saison is the second in a series of collaborative beers made by Pirate Life and Imperial Measures Distilling.
Crafted in the Port using a blend of pale grains, German hops and LalBrew Farmhouse yeast, it’s been carefully infused with IMD’s award winning Mandeaux Liqueur – a French style spirit fashioned from locally sourced mandarins.
Expect aromas of candied citrus, thistle & pear, refreshing tartness, and a dry finish from this elegant limited release.
“If you’ve ever spent time with a mandarin, spend some time with this beer.” – IMD Head Distiller, David Danby.
Thanks to our new Raspberry and Lemon brewed beverage, the pathway to summer refreshment has never been brighter…
Brewed with purified water and pale grains, this easy drinker is full of fruity flavours. You can thank natural raspberry puree for that, and a splash of lemon juice as well.
In the spirit of ‘crushability’, we’ve dialled back the bitterness and kept the body light - the resulting liquid is alluring to say the least.
It pours fiery pink, with a fluffy head of foam. Expect aromas of raspberry coulis and lemon lime. To drink, it’s vibrant and flavoursome with a crisp, fruity finish.
Introducing the second annual Pirate Life beer made exclusively for the Adelaide
Fringe. Crafted here in SA, It can be enjoyed for the duration of the 2022 festival and is the ideal accompaniment to a night out on the town – or session down here in the Port.
A simple grain bill of Carapils, Pilsner and Acidulated Malt gives the beer light,
bready flavours, while Pacifica and Saphir hops lend aromas of orange zest,
blackcurrant and freshly cut grass. To drink, it’s clean and refreshing, with
moderate bitterness and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Cryer Malt have been supplying us with quality ingredients for years. This pilsner showcases two of their most celebrated producers and just quietly, it’s the best…
The grain bill, which consists of Pilsner Malt, Acidulated Malt and Carapils, comes courtesy of German maltsters, Bestmalz. This combination makes the beer bready, slightly acidic and a little bit sweet.
Hop varieties Loral® and Ahtanum® from Yakima Chief Hops (US) supply a lick of bitterness, along with notes of citrus, cedar and wild berry. It’s these characters you’ll find drifting from a firm yet energetic head.
Expect a cleansing mouthfeel, bright carbonation, and a full body that keeps the palate satisfied.
This summer ale is fresh, vibrant, and bursting with tropical fruit flavours. Brewed with pale malts and NZ & US hops, it pours light orange with an attractive haze.
In the glass, aromas of pineapple and stone drift from collar, which settles cloudy and white. To drink, it’s moreish and clean, with a well-rounded mouthfeel and soft mid-palate bitterness.
Enjoy cold and fresh.
Mixing a whisky sour takes a minutes. Brewing one on the other hand…
Back in August, we soured an ale using lactobacillus and lemon juice in a bid to emulate one of our favourite cocktails.
Of course, we couldn’t get there without the influence of whisky and oak, so we hand-selected eighteen casks from the Limeburners distillery (including ex-sherry and port butts) and pumped the liquid in.
After four months spent resting, the beverage hits tantalisingly close to brief.
It pours marmalade orange, with a loose head of foam. Expect aromas of preserved lemon, panettone and oak. Tart apricot, bourbon and spice delight the palate, which is full, complex and wonderfully acidic.
Transfer and Pirate Life Brewing are dreaming of gold medal fantasies. Consider this the every unofficial celebratory drink to cheer on the Australian and New Zealand Snowboarders. But don't let the gold go to your head just yet, this easy-drinking ale will keep even the most crook judging straight.
Please don't throw this limited edition can at the TV.
Crafted in collaboration with Beach Burrito, this ale has a smooth mouthfeel and gentle bitterness that renders it highly approachable.
Perfectly paired with a burrito and the summer sun.
In late 2020, we filled sixteen ex-chardonnay casks with Belgian Blonde Ale – a beer crafted with pale and specialty malts, Perle and Motueka hops, and a hardy ale yeast.
Each barrel’s contents were sampled periodically (and the tasting notes recorded) allowing us to thoughtfully tailor the final blend. Turns out twelve months on oak will drastically alter a beer, but we had a feeling it might…
It pours bright and golden, with a thick head of foam. Expect aromas of honey, oak and crushed table grape. There’s a farmhouse quality there, too.
The palate largely mirrors the above (and that’s just fine), singing with notes of oaked chardonnay and mulled cider. You’ll also be rewarded with bright carbonation, and a delicate acidity that leaves the tongue twirling for more.
Twelve months done good.
Mango Super Sour exists in a world of its own. Somewhere north of the beer sphere and south of RTD…
It starts off innocently enough, with milled grain and water on our SkyCity kit. Post brew, the liquid hits a fermenter, and that’s where things take a turn for the wort.
All up, we hit it with sixty litres of lemon juice and two hundred kilos of mango puree. For context, that’s 35% more than the total amount of grain used. Uh huh, this bevvy’s packing fruit.
It pours a wild orange, with a sherbety head. Find plump aromas of mango and fresh citrus, too. On the palate, it’s bright and full, with pleasant acidity and a truck load of tropical feels.
Our second Saison enlists the stylings of PL brewer, Jake Haysman. His interpretation of the classic Belgian (hmm, kinda French) style is elegant, fresh and bursting with complexity.
To begin, he knocked-up a wort using malted barley, wheat and oats, and after a light hopping with Mandarina Bavaria, sent it to tank.
Here the hybrid non-diastaticus yeast made short work of the sugars, fermenting at a lofty 28°C, and with the aid of Deltazyme AMG (which enhances attenuation) a bone-dry finish was achieved.
It pours a striking lemon yellow. Aromas of citrus and thistle dance from the head, which settles cloudy and white. To drink, it’s clean and sharp, showing tangerine, lemongrass and mellow phenols.
‘Tis the Saison.
Brewed by Aitor Nieto Cortes on our SkyCity kit, this Imperial IPA settles in at 10.1% ABV. He’s thrown a fair bit of malt at the equation too - all pale, all premium, alright.
Mandarina Bavaria hops brings bitterness to the boil, with whirlpool and post ferment additions of Mosaic, Strata and Cryo Azacca gifting a plethora of dank & fruity notes.
It pours golden and deep, like nectar in the glass. Expect punchy aromas of tinned peach and resinous pine. To drink, it’s robust and full, with big malt, well-integrated bitterness and slew of tropical fruit flavours.
This unfiltered ale pays homage to a PL classic, albeit through a slightly ‘hazy’ lens.
It’s brewed with a selection of premium malts. Wheat and Pale lend a sturdy base, while Carapils adds body and a light toffee hue.
It pours with an attractive opacity, thanks to polyphenols accrued during dry hopping. International varieties Kohatu, Riwaka, Strata and Mosaic supply intense aromas of tropical fruit, with lifted notes of citrus and pine.
It’s moreish and malty, with a well-rounded mouthfeel and fine midpalate
bitterness. There’s glimpses of our OG West Coast Pale, but in all
honesty, this one’s a little more approachable.
We seem to be getting pretty good at that…
This mid-strength fruit sour is vibrant, fresh and crafted for ultimate crushability…
Brewed with pale malts and a handful of Aussie hops, it’s been gently soured using lactobacillus. A post fermentation addition of raspberry puree enhances tartness and gifts a striking hue as well.
It pours coral pink with an energetic head. Expect zesty aromas of lemon and summer berries. To drink, it’s refreshing and tangy, with bright carbonation and a hit of raspberry late.
The Belles Original Draught is a collaboration beer celebrating the long-standing friendship between Belles Hot Chicken and Pirate Life Brewery. It was hand-crafted in the heart of Port Adelaide and serves as a refreshing take on a traditional German style.
Brewed with purified water and premium malt & hops, it pours clear with a transfixing golden hue. Expect aromas of lemon biscuit and white pepper, with lifted herbal notes. To drink, it's bright and full-bodied, showing tangerine, honeyed malt and a hint of savoury sage.
This fruit sour is vibrant, refreshing, and deliciously tart!
Brewed using pale and wheat malt, it’s been lightly hopped, and is infused with blackcurrant and cranberry puree. Lactobacillus generates a pleasant acidity, while bright carbonation enhances the offering.
It pours with an attractive berry-like hue. Zesty aromas drift from an energetic head, though the real reward is yet to come. Once sipped, notes of cranberry and blackcurrant delight the palate. It’s full-bodied, tangy, and utterly moreish.
Halloween is upon us once again, and to celebrate we’ve spiced things up with an über spooky brown ale...
It begins with premium malts, Simcoe, Willamette & Fuggles hops, and a handful of aromatic spices. Brown sugar adds depth to the boil, while 200 kilos of pumpkin lend sweet & earthy characters.
It pours nut brown, with flecks of butterscotch. Expect aromas ginger snaps and treacle, with notes of bitter orange. The palate is round and glossy, gifting toffee malts and pumpkin pie. Notes of choc caramel linger long.
Pirate Life Brewing launched with three beers: IIPA, Pale Ale and Throwback IPA. Not many people know this, but it was almost five, and the ‘Trắng White Ale’ was on the list.
Turns out this South East Asian inspired Belgian Witbier was Red and Jack’s first ever home brew back in 2013 but after consideration, was respectfully archived – not because it wasn’t delish but because it was a (bit of a) headache to produce.
We’re stoked to share it with you today, and considering its historical signifi- cance, thought Red’s original notes were pertinent to share. Turns out they’re still on point...
“A Belgian Witbier spiced with our favourite aromatics from this exciting region provides a beer that epitomises the balance and finesse of cooking and brewing heritage from their respective backgrounds. Yin and Yang.
The elevated carbonation combined with a slight tart quality lends itself to cutting through and balancing spicy-hot or oily foods, while the wheaty base and subtle flavourings will compliment food from almost anywhere.”
There’s plenty to like about this beer, not least that it’s wrapped in an original oil painting by legendary local artist, Donovan Christie. His recent exhibition, ‘The Milk Bars Are On Me’ is brimming with 90’s suburban nostalgia and serves as a unique nod to the liquid inside…
Pale Malt, Crystal Malt and oats lend a full and balanced body, offsetting the beer’s acidity with bullish certitude. That tartness (which is hard to miss) comes courtesy of pineapple puree, lime juice and lactic acid, with Mosaic and Citra hops gifting a bagful of fruity notes.
It pours golden and deep, with a creamy head. Expect aromas of citrus and zesty pineapple. To drink, it’s lively and fresh, with a lick of toffee malt and a familiar pine lime quality late.
The words ‘la dolce vita’ refer to a life rich in food, family, art, and love – an ethos PL passionately endorse. With that in mind, we crafted Lager Italiana, a beverage best consumed ice-cold in the afternoon sun. Oh, and be sure to polish the boccias...
A grain bill of Pilsner Malt, Carapils and Acidulated Malt keeps things light and fresh, and the hops shine through as a result. We went with Pacifica and Saphir as they lend a variety of noble and new world notes.
It pours sunny hay with a frothy head of foam. Expect floral aromas, with lifted notes of orange peel and continental loaf. The palate is clean and bright, showing citrusy hops, gentle malt and esters of pepper and pear.
Match with wood fire pizzas and a wedge of Nonna’s braciola.
Our second collaboration beer with global tea brand Dilmah is primed and ready to pour! So grab a mug, get comfy, and prepare to sip in style...
Crafted with a blend of pale and specialty malts, this IPA has been infused with over one hundred kilos of Premium Ceylon Earl Grey Tea sourced directly from the Ratnapura region of Sri Lanka.
The leaves (which are hand-picked) lend complexity to the brew and tastefully complement hop additions of Cashmere, Pacifica, and Willamette.
It pours golden orange with a creamy head of foam. Expect aromas of bergamot and preserved pineapple, with lifted malty notes. On the palate, savory citrus, well-integrated bitterness, and a lick of lavender late.
Do try it!
All the flavour with a fraction of the calories? Yeah, righto!
Hand-crafted at our Port Adelaide Brewery, this flavoursome pale contains less sugar than any other PL beer. You can thank glucoamylase for that – an enzyme which (among other things) helps to minimise residual carbohydrates.
Citrus pectin was subbed in to maintain body, while hot side, cast and late ferment hop additions supply a bucket load of fruity characters.
It pours light gold, with a persistent haze. Expect aromas of pineapple, passion fruit and pine. The palate is light and juicy, with refreshing carbonation and a fine, lingering bitterness.
Artist Series release no. 8 features work from Adelaide based illustrator, Tim Wood. His piece (much like the beer) is alluring, dark, and compels contemplation, so get your fingers on a can while it’s within reach.
Inside you’ll find an imperial stout developed by PL crew members, Rafael Aragon and Zack Lang. It’s a generous beverage, and one worthy of Wood’s transfixing tin.
Pale and specialty malts form the base, while Mosaic hops and post ferment additions of blackcurrant juice and blackberry puree generate deep fruity notes.
It pours dark brown, with mahogany highlights. Expect aromas of 70% dark chocolate and berry syrup, with hints of brown sugar from the boil.
The palate is rich, roasty and delightfully acidic – think choc-dipped blackcurrants and berry studded gâteau. Rock candy and cacao play nicely on the finish.
What do our New World Kolsch, Lime Gose, and Oat Cream IPA have in common? Hot tip: They were all created by PL brewer Aitor Nieto Cortes, and if history is anything to go by, this one should be pretty tasty too…
Brewed on our five-hundred litre SkyCity kit with a blend of pale malts, this beer serves as a refreshing take on a classic German style.
It was fermented under pressure at 15°C to minimise ester production and calls on Cascade & Amarillo for an intriguing hoppy hit.
Pouring pale hay with a fluffy head of foam, one can expect bready aromas, with pings of zested lime. On the palate, it’s clean and fresh, with notes of lemon biscuit, and a hint of honey late.
The Creed has been handed down through generations and shaped legions of Port Adelaide People.
The Captain - Limited edition 1 of 4.
$5 from every case sold goes towards building the Club museum.
This winter sour draws inspiration from Black Forest Gâteau, a rich and decadent dessert. It is complex, well layered, and the brainchild of PL guns, Zach Lang and Tom Camp.
Pale, crystal, and roasted malts form the base of this beer, which has been hopped with Fuggles & Perle, and soured gently using Lactobacillus.
Additions of cocoa, lactose, and vanilla supply chocolatey notes, while over six-hundred kilos of cherries lend charm and tartness to the brew.
It pours deep brown with amber highlights. Expect aromas of stewed cherry and dark chocolate, with elegant notes of brewed soy. The palate is robust and lively, conjuring imagery of Black Forest Cake oozing with jam.
In 1961, Vermont locals Mikey and Ginny Cochran built a rope tow on their hillside property. It would form the basis of a vibrant ski culture within their community and make world champion athletes out of their kids.
Fifty years on, at Slopeside Syrup, their grandchildren proudly carry on the family name, bottling pure maple syrup a mere snowballs throw from those now iconic hills.
Discover the fruits of their labour in every sip of this Maple Bacon Coffee Porter - a robust winter warrior courtesy of Pirate Life, Burton Snowboards and of course, the Cochrans.
It pours dark brown, with a tan head of foam. Expect aromas of ristretto coffee, milk chocolate, and Manuka smoked malt. On the palate, it’s mocha by the campfire, with elegant notes of maple syrup and vanilla.
Celebrate International IPA Day 2021 with an imperial India pale ale developed by PL brewer, Charléne du Toit. It’s bold, flavoursome, and features ingredients from either side of the Tasman.
Much like our flagship IIPA, hops are central here, with characterful New Zealand and Aussie strains pairing well. It’s almost like they’ve done this before.
Pale malted barley from Geelong forms the base, while specialty grains from NZ’s Gladfield Malt add layers of complexity. It’s a suitable chassis and one needed to withstand the barrage of hops.
It pours autumn orange with an attractive froth. Expect aromas of tinned fruit salad and blackcurrant juice. To drink, it’s malty and bitter, with notes of candied nectarine and an abundance of Trans-Tasman charm.
Pair with lamb chops and a lively anecdote.
‘Whale Tale’ (aka Kyle Armstrong) is an Adelaide based artist. He’s also the winner of the inaugural ‘Can of Art’ competition held last year in collaboration with SALA and the Gilbert Street Hotel.
Kyle’s prize? An epic one-off tin wrapped in his work. You might have seen a similar piece on the Gilbert’s Russel Street façade...
Inside the can you’ll catch a California Pale Ale (developed by PL brewer, Jackson Purser) with a clean malt bill and liberal amounts of Mosaic, Strata, and Idaho-7 hops. Yep, we’ve used them before. Yep, they’re bloody good strains.
It pours golden with a fluffy head of foam. Expect aromas of stone fruit, black currant, and sticky pine. To drink, it’s clean and hoppy, with a hint of biscuit malt, and an assertive back palate bitterness.
Our Miso Icky Sticky Stout has landed! And guess what? There’s a whole lot of gooey goodness coming your way...
It’s brewed with twelve individual grain variants, Perle + Taiheke hops, and a slew of specialty ingredients – including fifty litres of miso caramel courtesy of PL Head Chef, Rocky Oliveria.
The miso (which is made by fermenting soybeans) adds a wicked saltiness to the beer.
It pours dark brown, with a syrup like consistency. Expect aromas of black treacle, espresso, and choc dipped orange. On the palate, more coffee, Dutch Liquorice (like a lot), and a delightful burnt sugar quality late.
The finish is longer than a Typhoon Class Submarine. Which by all accounts is pretty long.
If we learnt anything from last year’s ice beer release, it’s this: If ya wanna taste, ya gotta be quick. Apparently freeze distilled beverages are quite the commodity. Here’s why...
Picture a one thousand litre tub filled with specialty stout in a refrigeration unit set minus thirty degrees. Ok, now picture fifteen of them.
As the water in the beer freezes, a concentrate drips from the ice. We collect it, repeat the process, then bang it into kegs and cans.
The liquid pours dark brown and dense. Expect aromas of brewed coffee, chocolate cake and sticky date. To drink, it’s elaborate and fiery, with notes of salty liquorice, molasses, and cacao.
Imperial Stout Ice Beer. Best Shared.
This hazy IPA is made with purified water, pale malts, East Coast Ale yeast and the king of all hops, Mosaic.
Low bitterness gives it considerable appeal, while forty kilos of post ferment hop additions ratchet up the fruit factor. Like, to eleven...
It pours a luminous yellow, with a characteristic haze. Expect aromas of pineapple, candied strawberry, and crushed pin. One the palate, ripe pawpaw, malt sweetness and a soft, pillowy mouthfeel.
Turns out good things do come in small packages…
Brewed with a blend of pale and roasted malts, this beer settles in at a modest 1.1% ABV. And while it’s not very often you see figures like that strapped to the side of a dark ale, this sessionable example stands tall and proud.
It pours chocolate brown with a tan head of foam. Expect aromas of biscuit and freshly brewed coffee. To drink, it’s clean and roasty, with a medium body, and fine back palate bitterness.
This is a visual beer. The kind you would see in your friends hand and say, “What the heck is that?” Followed closely by, “…and where the heck can I get one?” It’s deep, plum jam appearance is owed to over 200 kg of Boysenberry puree and the roasted malts Chocolate and Carafa III. As the head settles strawberry blonde, we’re reminded of that first iconic sparkling shiraz on Christmas Day. Robust boysenberry, milk-chocolate cake, young balsamic and fermented cherry greet the nose. The palate hits clean, rewarding with tight acidity, stewed boysenberry, dark chocolate and black forest fruits. Adding to this slew of excess is an unexpected umami driven back palate, delivering notes of brewed soy and roasted, unsalted peanut. You can thank Lactobacillus (along with our amazing brew team) for PL’s exemplary sour offerings of late. Its brief 24 hour presence in the kettle is felt long after the acidic evolution of the wort has taken place. In the case of Boysenberry Dark, you’ll experience a definitive pucker, without it being overwhelming or impolite. Smashing.
Developed by PL crew member Alex Mattingly, this NEIPA is fruit-forward, coral pink, and serves as a reminder that homebrewers are capable of mouth-watering things. Like we were ever in doubt!
It was crafted with a blend of oats, wheat, and malted barley at the District - our home away from home in Adelaide’s CBD.
US hop varieties Centennial and Mosaic present well, though it’s the dragon fruit and raspberry additions that truly bolster the offering.
The beer’s transfixing hue is accompanied by a gentle haze. Expect aromas of raspberry lollies and tropical fruit. On the palate, notes of stewed dragon fruit complement a bright and refreshing mouthfeel.
Balanced bitterness, clean finish, cheers Mattingly.
This collaboration red ale celebrates two iconic South Aussie producers, denotes a heartfelt comradery between them, and is a tasteful blend of their respective crafts.
Brewed in Port Adelaide from the highest quality ingredients, it has been infused with a bespoke Amaro distilled using not one, but three of Pirate Life’s award winning IPAs.
The spirit, which was fashioned at the Imperial Measures Distillery, lends a distinctive herbal quality to the beer; elegantly offsetting notes of toffee malt and spiced fruit.
Pair this specialty release with crème brulee, close friends and a roaring fire.
In late 2019 we racked four thousand litres of Coffee and Molasses Baltic Porter into oak casks. The barrels (previously used to house rum) spent eight months imparting their unique spirit into the beer.
Today, we relish the results – a harmonious blend of ‘aged’ and ‘non-aged’ porter using only the finest and most complimentary casks.
Pour to reveal aromas of molasses, biscotti, and farmhouse cherry cider – the latter courtesy of a spontaneous Brettanomyces ferment in barrel number three.
On the palate you’ll find liquorice straps, stewed berries, and lifted notes of spiced rum. It’s complex and warming, with a gentle oak characters and an acidity that lingers pleasantly on the tongue.
Presented in a one-off can designed by Adelaide Tattoo Artist Harry Plane, this limited-edition release is ideal for the beer enthusiast and art lover alike.
This collaboration beer with the legends at ‘Eyre Roasted’ is packed with quality ingredients, including coffee beans direct from their Port Lincoln roastery. Sound tempting? Heck yeah it does...
Brewed with premium malts and purified water, this specialty porter boasts Slovenian hops and over 200 kilos of Dave and Cat’s ‘Four Bean Blend’ – which showcases single origin coffee varieties from across the globe.
It pours dark brown, with a latte crema. Expect aromas of espresso, rye loaf and cacao. On the palate, notes of dark chocolate pair with cold brew coffee and spice.
Pair with warm bacon bagels.
The word ‘lupulada’ means hoppy in Spanish, and that is oh so fine with us! Brewed with pale malts and flaked corn, this Mexican style cerveza has been dry hopped with New Zealand varieties Motueka, Pacifica and Wakatu.
The resulting liquid is brimming with citrus characters; let’s call it a welcome deviation.
It pours crystal clear, with a hay like hue. Expect aromas of cracker, preserved lemon and pear. On the palate, bright carbonation accentuates notes of biscuit and lime.
“Dos cervezas por favor!”
Mole Negro is a dark and luxurious sauce hailing from Oaxaca in Mexico’s south west. It’s also the inspiration behind our latest collaboration beer with the crew at La Popular Taqueria...
Set for release at Tasting Australia festival in May, this imperial stout is brewed using wheat, oats, malted barley, Mosaic hops and a good whack of powdered cocoa.
The spice additions come next (think cumin, marjoram and thyme), followed by four toasted chilli variants post fermentation - and you can thank the La Pop crew for that.
It pours black, with ruby highlights. Expect aromas of fudge brownie, sarsaparilla and freshly cut chilli. On the palate, dark chocolate pairs with notes of bourbon barrel and smoky chipotle. It’s smooth, bold and delectably complex.
¡Salud!
Brewed with a blend of pale, biscuit and roasted malts, this imperial brown ale features over seventy freshly baked pretzels, courtesy of our mates at Lobethal Bakery.
Fuggles hops lend bitterness and earthy notes, while Dark Candi Sugar and sea salt combine to create a rich caramel-like quality.
It pours dark brown, with a maple head of foam. Expect aromas of coffee drops and molasses. On the palate, salted caramel complements notes of sticky date pudding and spice.
For lovers of brown ales, baked pastries, or anyone who’s uttered the words, “These pretzels are making me thirsty!”
No. 3 in our ‘DDDH NEIPA’ series has landed. It’s phat, juicy, and absolutely still a beer...
Brewed in Port Adelaide with a selection of pale malts and oats, this New England IPA is packed with hops – as you might expect. The trick (at least we’ve found) is to limit their presence on the hot side, and throw the majority into the fermenter itself.
This keeps the bitterness down, while generating succulent fruity characters synonymous with the style. All up, six varieties are on show here, but it’s the Cryo-Centennial that really intensifies the bouquet.
It pours marigold orange, with a gentle haze. Expect a myriad of fruity aromas, including orange, mango, guava, passionfruit and pear...to name a few.
Simply put, we took ingredients from one of the nation’s most beloved Easter treats and threw them into a beer. The result is a riotous festive beverage that’s bound to please...
This ‘Pastry Stout’ has been brewed with a blend of malted barley, oats and wheat. Hot side additions of orange zest, jujube syrup, and spice trigger imagery of freshly baked hot cross buns, while cocoa and lactose lend a rich chocolatey hit.
It pours black with a tan head of foam. Expect aromas of cinnamon, raisin and treacle. On the palate, ristretto coffee pairs with notes of dried fruit, allspice and ganache. It’s deep, doughy and decadent.
Happy Easter.
It might not be Nan’s, but it’s pretty bloody good...
Modelled on the quintessential ‘feel-good’ dessert, this nitro sour strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet.
It’s brewed with malted barley, wheat and oats, and wields a lip puckering tang - thanks to both lactobacillus, and the zest and juice of some one thousand lemons. Give or take a coupla fruits.
Mosaic and Citra hops complement the beer’s unique citrus quality, while vanilla pods and lactose add depth and luxury too.
It pours smooth, with a dense and glossy head. Expect aromas of freshly squeezed lemon before relishing that ‘silky’ mouthfeel you’ve come to know and love.
We won’t dive too deep into the flavours on this one, you’ll just have to head down to the brewery and nab yourself a slice!
Back in 2015, Pirate Life beers were West Coast through and through. And while we have evolved, our roots are anchored deep. This recipe harks back to a founding affinity for dank and resinous brews, and just quietly, we’re amped with the results...
Like any decent DIPA, it’s been comprehensively hopped, and includes mash, kettle, whirlpool, and fermenter additions of the following US strains: Mosaic, Idaho-7, Strata and Columbus.
Not a bad line up, though personalities this large require offsetting; hence the malt bill, which is both robust and complementary.
It pours golden and clear, with a lively head of foam. Expect aromas of stone fruit, crushed pine and blackcurrant. The palate shows tropical fruits and herbal sage, with a fine residual sweetness and respectable 80 IBU.
Our second collab beer with the legends at Jujubes SA is here. It’s all natural (as always) and gives a cheeky nod to a familiar favourite...
Brewed with premium malts and US + Aussie hops, it’s been gently soured with the good bacteria, Lactobacillus. Post ferment spice additions delight the senses, while seventy kilos of Jujube syrup adds complexity to every sip.
It pours copper, with a creamy head of foam. Expect aromas of nutmeg, vanilla, and bitter orange. The first gulp is instantly reminiscent of cola (there’s no denying it) but with a cleansing acidity that sweeps the palate clean.
Raisin toast lingers pleasantly on the tongue. Enjoy. Responsibly.
This tantalising pilsner is a modern take on a timeless classic, and calls on a unique tap to secure the perfect pour.
In this case ‘perfect’ alludes to the beer’s monumental head, which is both excessive and somewhat of an oddity. But don’t be dismayed, it’s true style, and comes courtesy of heightened carbonation and a nifty restrictor fount.
Both Pilsner and Acidulated Malt supply a sturdy base (the later lowering the liquid’s PH and hence increasing the acidity of the beer), while Pacifica hops lend a telling grassy whip.
In the glass, aromas of white bread, mint and freshly cut grass pair with a range of distinctive esters. It's bright and cleansing to sip, with a refined bitterness and soft biscuity finish.
Slow Pour Pilsner. More head than you’re used to. Like, a lot more...
History has produced some pretty iconic ‘duos’. Bonnie and Clyde. Ren and Stimpy. Cheese and Vegemite. And while PL respectfully acknowledge these well-known pairs, we reckon Orange and Mango’s got ‘em beat.
Brewed using pale malts and Enigma hops, this beer has been soured with lactobacillus. Late ferment additions of mango puree and OJ only amplify said pucker, which is good news for those who dig a bit of tingle.
It pours like bubbly juice, but let the record state that ‘this is not bubbly juice’ – it is beer. For grown-ups. A zesty fragrance greets the nose, but like most kettle sours, your tongue will take the lion’s share...
Picture piercing an orange’s skin with your teeth, then gorging on the pulp within. Got it? Good. Now you’re in the ball park. As your palate jolts to attention, a dollop of mango quells the acidity, leaving you with thoughts of apricot pie, and that mimosa you sipped on at brunch.
Take that Bonnie and Clyde.
Introducing the second in a series of collaborative beers created by Pirate Life and Riot Wine Co. It’s bright and invigorating with a distinctive fruity twist…
Brewed with premium pale malts, this summer sour boasts an addition of strawberry puree – that’s 252 kilos in every 5,000 litres of beer to be precise.
Enigma hops supply a lick of bitterness, while a host of natural botanicals (the same of which are used in Riot’s Rose Spritz) lend intricacy to an already cracking bouquet.
It pours clear, with an attractive peach like hue. Expect aromas of strawberry candy, citrus and bitters. On the palate, bright carbonation accentuates notes of blood orange and passionfruit.
Riot Sour Spritz. Oh, so drinkable.
PL’s second triple-hopped New England IPA is unfiltered, unpasteurised and juicy AF!
Brewed with a blend of pale malts and oats, it calls on hop varieties Citra, Mosaic, Amarillo, and a comparatively new strain from the Yakima Valley, Bru-1.
With less hop additions on the hot side and more in the fermenter, we keep the bitterness down, while securing an intense tropical fruit bouquet. Oh, and bucketloads of flavour too.
It pours golden yellow with a persistent haze. Aromas of mandarin, guava and pineapple dart from the collar, which settles cloudy and white. On the palate, it’s all fruit, with a soft mouthfeel and pings of resinous pine.
DDDH NEIPA 2. Still a beer.
Introducing the first annual Pirate Life beer made exclusively for the Adelaide Fringe. Brewed with premium pale malts + Aussie and NZ hops, the Adelaide Fringe Draught is fresh, familiar, and ready to session. Pair with friends and a great show.
Double dip? No. Double Denim? Maybe. Double Acai and Passionfruit? Oh god yes! This beer is brewed using a simple grain bill of Pale Malt and Wheat. It’s distinctive tartness comes from a combination of both lactic acid (from Lactobacillus) and over 500 kg of Passionfruit pulp. The Acai berry, which is native to South America, lends the beer a rich fuchsia like hue. It's zesty, revitalising and at 6.4%, just the right amount of wild!
This gose was brewed with pale malts, New Zealand hops and a variety of specialty ingredients, including Native Finger Lime, coriander seed and Murray River Pink Salt.
It was gently soured using Lactobacillus and spent two months aging in ex-chardonnay casks. The resulting beer is bursting with complexity.
It pours like lime juice cordial, with a delicate pillow of foam. Expect aromas of vanilla, citrus and almond croissant. On the palate, oaked chardonnay compliments fresh acidity and a moreish salty tang.
Crafted for art and beer enthusiasts alike, no. 4 in our acclaimed Artist Series showcases work from UK based painter ‘Nerone’. His fluid lines and fresh neon pallet perfectly compliment the liquid in the tin, a tongue tingling Raspberry and Lemon Sour.
Brewed with Pale Malts and Aussie hops, this beer obtains its distinctive tartness from Lactobacillus. Late ferment additions of raspberry puree and lemon juice bump up the pucker, while simultaneously contributing a range of stewed fruit notes.
It pours coral pink, with a persistent haze. Expect aromas of raspberry cordial, lemonade and a soft lacto driven funk. Flavours of berry jam and rock candy are offset by a bright citrus like acidity, which kicks in late and lingers long.
Dusty the Kangaroo Island Kelpie and his six puppy siblings miraculously lived through the bushfire that destroyed their home farm, sheds and vehicles. Dusty Draught is an easy drinking beer that will quench thirsts across Australia while helping out the heroes of Dusty’s island home.
It’s hopped up, unfiltered and 9%. Diggin’ the NEIPAs? Take a squiz at this…
Brewed with a blend of pale malt, wheat and rolled oats, this beer pours yellow with a lustrous haze. YP066 London Fog yeast supplies gentle esters, while pre, late and post-ferment hop additions secure the juice. Expect aromas of candied pineapple and coconut, with lifted notes of peach. On the palate, a velvety mouthfeel, low bitterness and a symphony of tropical fruits. Oat Cream IIPA. Bloody Oat
It’s not very often one of our beers comes with an obligatory serving suggestion, but there’s no denying it, this 29.2% freeze distilled IIIIPA is indeed ‘best shared’. Picture a one thousand litre tub filled with Pirate Life’s IPA, IIPA and IIIPA in a refrigeration unit set minus thirty degrees. As the water in the beer freezes, a boozy concentrate drips from the ice. We collect it, repeat the process, then bang it in a can. It pours like syrup, with a fiery orange hue. Expect aromas of apricot brandy and spice, with lifted notes of olive brine. On the palate, buttered rum, marmalade and a good of lick of herbaceous hops. IIIIPA Ice Beer. Best Shared.
Citrus Hystrix is a lime native to South East Asia. We’ve used it in the PL brewhouse before, and here it shines again.
Developed by PL alumnus Kristy McMillan, this mid-strength kettle sour is brewed with Pale Malt, Wheat, Enigma hops and ten kilos of Citrus Hystrix. The resulting liquid is glowing gold, with streak of oily lime.
Expect a lively aroma, with notes of spiced citrus and curry leaf. The bacteria Lactobacillus generates a good lick of acidity, pairing with Hystrix for a vibrant mid-palate lift. To finish, herbaceous lime and a hint of biscuit malt.
Brewed with Pale and Munich Malt, our Tasmanian Draught is fresh, familiar and ready to session.
A hop free boil means ultra-low bitterness, with citrus notes emerging from whirlpool and post ferment additions of Cascade, Enigma and Kohatu.
It pours golden straw, with a generous pillow of foam. Expect aromas biscuit and nashi pear, with subtle notes of lime.
The palate is malty, with a mild body and a clean, moreish finish.
Halloween is upon us and to celebrate we’ve spiced things up with an über spooky brew!
It’s made with premium malts, Mosaic hops, roast pumpkin and a host of aromatic spices. Whirlpool additions of ginger and chilli lift the offering, while a hefty 8% ABV adds richness and depth.
It pours toffee orange with a creamy head. Expect aromas of nutmeg and ginger snaps with lifted notes of clove. The palate is pumpkin pie, spicy, gooey and sweet, with a welcome lick of chilli.
Pumpkin Spiced Latte Ale. No trick. Just treat.
Built on a foundation of Pilsner Malt and wheat, this modern interpretation of a classic German style acquires its definitive pucker from Lactobacillus. Whirlpool additions of Native Finger Lime elevate the beers zest factor, while a handful of Motueka hops, Murray River Pink Salt and fragrant coriander seed ground it stylistically.
Once poured, it looks remarkably similar to a lime juice cordial. Kaffir Lime Leaf pairs with a gentle sourdough funk to form the nose, but the real excitement starts below the rim. On the palate, bright lime and lactic acidity are expertly balanced with a moreish and salty tang. Its hyper crushable, with low hop bitterness and a clean, yet textured mouthfeel. The salt and sour explosion promptly fades, revealing notes of soft lemon curd and freshly baked croissant.
Tangerine, soft coconut and feijoa prick ones curiosity, while fresh pine needle and pineapple taffy round out an intricate bouquet.
As you contemplate the aromatic awakening that has just taken place, It’s worth noting this beer’s striking colour. Those beautiful sunset flames and deep copper hues are indicative of carefully selected specialty malts. Now, to taste. Caramel malt, stone fruit and freshly baked Anzac biscuit give you something remarkable to chew on. It’s clean yet decadent. Fresh yet bold. Notes of resinous pine tie seamlessly to a fine back palate bitterness; both gently subsiding in a truly elegant finish.
Cold one or a cuppa? It’s a familiar dilemma down under. Thankfully, Pirate Life and the team at Dilmah have found a solution...
The ‘Tea & Biccies Brown Ale’ combines both beloved rituals, so you’ll never have to choose again!
Hand-crafted with malted barley, New Zealand hops, and over one hundred kilos of Premium Black Ceylon Tea, this is the quintessential fusion brew.
Expect rich malty aromas, with lifted notes of stone fruit and spice.
On the palate, fine tannins, freshly baked biscuit, and a host of herbal undertones.
Do try it!
For the past decade, New England IPAs have been satisfying craft enthusiasts across the globe, and while PL may be a little late to the party, we’re confident this’ll make up for it...
Our NEIPA showcases American hop varieties Mosaic, Simcoe, Amarillo and Idaho-7. In keeping with style, the bitterness is low, and a triple dry-hop ratchets up the fruit factor. Like, to eleven.
It pours sunny yellow, with a characteristic haze. Aromas of pineapple, peach and sweet raspberry waft from the collar, which settles cloudy and white. Expect a pillowy mouthfeel and an array of tropical fruits once gulped.
This whimsical fruit sour has been brewed to brighten your day.
Made with premium ingredients, it is mid-strength, and obtains its tartness from the friendly bacteria, Lactobacillus.
Expect a pink sunset hue, and aromas of blueberry bubble-gum. The palate is refreshing and sweet.
Available Exclusively at Dan Murphy's. Buy Here.
Crack this beer with pride, and be transported boundary side, as your hero drills a spearing pass.
Take in the aroma, and be reminded of Alberton’s hallowed turf, left gnarled by a flurry of sprigs.
Tilt it slightly, and envision the river running through Port Adelaide’s historic township - the place we Pirates call home.
And finally, relish the taste of victory, the kind that’s truly earnt, as we honour the PAFC and their iconic Prison Bar strip.
So, apparently you don’t have to filter an IPA…who would have thought?!
Expect a luminous yellow hue, thanks to a blend of premium malts. Hop additions in the whirlpool and late ferment supply the fruit, while a persistent haze adds complexity to every sip.
The nose is packed with mango, peach and mandarin, On the palate, passionfruit, low bitterness and a bright, cleansing mouthfeel.
Following the success of last year’s release, we are proud to unveil yet another indulgent chapter in the Limeburners + Pirate Life collaborative series. Looks like 2020 isn’t all bad...
Pour this beer with relish, and be greeted by the sublime, silky oak barrel scent of fine malt whisky, vanilla, cacao nib, honeyed dates and Blackstrap molasses. Take a sip and the palate reveals the rich, decadent stout you’d expect, but with a surprising umami, preserved fig and gentle acidity.
Like a great whisky, this beer transforms as it slowly warms in your glass. Those with patience will discover that much like ageing whisky in a barrel, if kept in a cool, dark place this Stout will continue to evolve and surprise.
Blackstrap Molasses, Elementary Coffee, and an 8.5% ABV are just some of the reasons why you should get around this Baltic Porter. If that doesn’t whet your appetite, this surely will…
It pours a rich, dark brown; cascading like syrup into the glass. Aromas of cacao waft from the collar, which settles dense and tan.
The palate shows coffee liqueur, treacle and a hint of dried fruit. Like all good porters, it will evolve as it warms in the hand.
Serve with mud cake and good mates.
We brew seasonally at Pirate Life, and winter always brings the goods. This Imperial Red Ale is 9%, packed with flavour, and soars in a Spitfire branded tin.
Malted barley, oats and rye give it a solid foundation and rich fiery hue. It’s needed to withstand the barrage of hops, with six international varietals on show.
The nose is full of mangosteen, gingerbread and stewed stone-fruit. On the palate, assertive bitterness, spiced fruit, and a whack of toffee malt. Serve with pork roast and old comrades.
No. 3 in our acclaimed ‘Artist Series’ features a one-off can design by Melbourne based painter, Mike Makatron, and an eclectic American hop honouring the legendary musician, Frank Zappa.
Discovered growing wild in the hills of New Mexico, the ‘Zappa’ strain is the ideal candidate for a single hopped IPA. It displays a host of unique characteristics, and with over 70 kg in the brew itself, you’ll likely experience them all.
The beer is golden, with a head that’ll cling to your lip. Expect aromas of peach and pineapple candy, with lifted notes of mint. On the palate, assertive bitterness, prickly pear, and a fine resinous quality late.
The Jujube is a sweet, berrylike fruit found commonly throughout Eurasia. Turns out, it tastes bloody good in a porter.
To begin, pale, crystal and roasted malts are combined with hot water to create a rich wort. Taiheke hops are then introduced, followed by seventy five litres of Jujube syrup – courtesy of our mates at Jujubes SA. Once in tank, a clean ale yeast brings it all together.
The beer is dark brown, with ruby shimmers. Aromas of liquorice and toffee apple form the nose, with lifted notes of sweet fig. It’s silky on the palate, with light roast characters, cola and a hint of treacle
This unfiltered ale pays homage to a PL classic, albeit through a slightly ‘hazy’ lens.
It’s brewed with a selection of premium malts. Wheat and Pale lend a sturdy base, while Munich, Carapils and Caraaroma add body and a light toffee hue.
It pours with an attractive opacity, thanks to polyphenols accrued during dry hopping. International varieties Kohatu, Wai-iti, Strata and Mosaic supply intense aromas of tropical fruit, with lifted notes of citrus and pine.
It’s moreish and malty, with a well-rounded mouthfeel and fine mid-palate bitterness. There’s glimpses of our OG West Coast Pale, but in all honesty, this one’s a little more approachable.
We seem to be getting pretty good at that…
The latest addition to our Single Hop Series is packed with flavour and comes encased in a dreamy paisley can!
‘Cashmere’ IPA champions the US hop varietal of the same name and pours a golden hay, thanks to a blend of pale malts. Expect aromas of pineapple, with lifted notes of tangerine and lemongrass. On the palate, an explosion of fruit is balanced by gentle bitterness and a hint of sweet malt. Find this Pirate Life Exclusive at a Dan Murphy’s Store near you!
Ploughing through at a colossal 11% ABV, this Imperial Stout is brewed with pale malt, wheat and a variety of specialty grains. A blend of US and German hops lend bitterness and spice, while kettle additions of lactose help to keep it sweet. In the pint, it’s raisin black with a honeyed edge – like recirculated engine oil. The aroma conjures imagery of pancakes doused in maple syrup; and the tastebuds largely concur. A treacle like viscosity enhances the offering, along with lashings of coffee liqueur, molasses and dark chocolate. Its unabashedly decadent and tremendously well balanced for it’s size.
Fashioned from the second runnings of our ultra-high gravity Imperial Stout, this Black IPA is the ideal winter companion. Deep, dark and fragrant, it combines a colossal mash bill with four of our favourite international hop varietals. Once poured, aromas of cut grass, musk lolly and coffee waft from the pint. The bitterness is on the low side, giving rise to an extravagant palate of espresso, pine and mint slice.
This beer was modelled on the apple guava juices you find on the supermarket shelf but modified to suit the adult palate. Sharply tart and refreshing, this beer was soured with Lactobacillus - the same micro-organism that produces tartness in yogurt. Brewed with a very light grain bill of Wheat, Pale malt and just a touch of Aussie Enigma hops to allow the fruit to shine, the beer has a light pink blush thanks to the healthy 300 kg dose of guava. A slight haze persists in the glass thanks to the addition of the apple and guava, both of which are high in a natural protein called pectin. The aroma is reminiscent of a scrumpy cider, a savoury maleic acid note from the apple lingers above the guava which bares itself on the palate in a much bigger way.
First brewed for GABS back in 2016, Loose Lips Sink Ships is so gargantuan, you can’t say its name after drinking a pint of the stuff...
To brew this 12% ABV Triple IPA, 2,000 kg of premium malted barley, wheat and oats (combined) are pumped into a 5,000 litre mash tun. This supplies the beer with its formidable backbone and rich caramel hue. A staggering ‘ten’ hop varietals then sway the recipe with fruit, resin and a lip quivering 100 + IBU. Only 220 kg of hops. No big deal. Ahem!
Once poured, the nose gets thumped with tropical fruits, caramel and pine. On the palate, its viscous and dense, with fresh pineapple and malt syrup expertly restraining a rouge and unfettered bitterness. Its all of the things, all the way to eleven. Just. The way. We like it.
Loose Lips Sink Ships. Simon Says Live Large.
Brewed using the ‘Party-Gyle’ method, Smooth Sailing is made from the second runnings of our 12% triple IPA, Loose Lips Sink Ships.
It has a solid malt backbone and owes its big fruity hit to seven international hop varietals.
Expect aromas of peach and treacle, with lifted notes of resinous pine. A hardy mid-palate bitterness is offset by toffee dipped fruit. To finish? Apricot and oatmeal cookies.
The Burton x Pirate Life Frontside Ale is a gently hopped smasher, sentimentally modelled on a classic American Cream Ale. A touch of corn makes this beer light and dry meaning that the mild, fruity hop characters of Motueka and Taiheke can shine through…
Drink it in the pow pow, drink it right now now.
Available in can and keg.
Pirate Life’s Kiwifruit and Cherry Sour is ripe for the picking! Every five thousand litre batch we brew is infused with over 750 kg of fruit and acquires it’s tartness from the pro-biotic Lactobacillus – so it’s good for the gut! Well, sort of! Pouring Ruby red, the nose shows tart cherry, raspberry (thanks to a handful of Enigma hops) and a gentle lacto driven funk. On the palate, dark cherry, tangy kiwi and a lick of citrus. Had your fruit today?
A homage to the classics, Pirate Life’s Red Ale pours a dark rich red, throwing big pine and citrus hop characters from the can. Dropping bombs from both the hop and malt worlds, the trifecta of Centennial, Mosaic and Enigma shine through with a resinous bitterness to back up the caramel and rye malts. Expect the finish to linger sweet with hops, cocoa and toffee.
Showcasing the distinctive characteristics of lemongrass and ginger, this kettle sour is vibrant, refreshing and undeniably unique. The beer’s gentle tartness comes from lactobacillus - the same healthy bacteria that gives yogurt its zang. It’s light hay in colour, with aromas of ginger, lemongrass and Thai mint. On the palate, bright carbonation and lactic acidity burst into action, where ginger and citrus pair with notes of herbal tea.
With a truck load of hops and a hefty 6% ABV, this is one power house of a beer! But there’s more to it than meets the eye…
Brewed with a grain bill of Vienna and Pale malt, Strong Pale Ale shows nuance with the addition of Native Finger Lime and coriander seed. The nose is presented with citrus and resinous pine. On the palate, bold hops pair with a distinctly herbaceous appeal.
Strong Pale Ale. The right kinda tough.
This unique recipe is brewed with a combination of malted barley, wheat and oats. New Zealand hops supply fruit and a gentle bitterness, with late ferment additions of Kakadu Plum and Lemon Myrtle bringing complexity and class to the glass. Once poured, it’s light and sunny. Aromas of Lemon Myrtle and grapefruit form the nose, with lifted notes of grassy hop and biscuit. The palate shows herbal citrus and hints of stewed fruit.
José was brewed using Pilsner Malt, Wheat and a variety of specialty ingredients, including Native Finger Lime, coriander seed and Murray River Pink Salt. It spent two months aging in ex-tequila casks, resulting in a beer with unrivalled complexity - both by name and by nature. In the pint, it looks just like lime juice cordial, with aromas of oak and Reposado Tequila. On the palate, French pastry and citrus curd pair with a moreish salty tang. A cracking barrel aged gose from the PL cellar.
Brewed in collaboration with the Port Adelaide Football Club.
Stage two of the kaleidoscopic journey finds us in peculiarly tart territory! This beer shows aromas of mango and green nectarine. It’s drier than the classic Mosaic IPA but still produces generous wallops of fruit and a hint of residual sweetness. The bitterness is pronounced, pairing well with notes of passionfruit and sour pineapple candy.
This beer is everything you’d expect from a Pirate Life double IPA - equal parts best friend and bully! Brewed with premium malted barley, wheat and oats, it's been packed to the brim with NZ and US hops. You’ll get aromas of tropical fruit and citrus. The palate is juicy and sweet. And while the ABV is up, the IBUs are down, rendering this neon clad bomb highly crushable. Ready to pull the pin?
A beer which is layered with many years of complexity, first from the whisky and then from the stout. Dark and thick in the glass the aroma has hints of chocolate, vanilla and a touch of coffee. The barrel's charred American oak gives the nose a subtle hint of campfire and roasted marshmallow. The palate is silky and sweet, vanilla is here again along with chocolate and honeycomb. This is followed by wisps of fine malt whisky, a touch of acidity, subtle unami and lingering, moreish finish. You want that next sip and it's easier than you would think to watch the whole bottle disappear in front of you as you enjoy the slow evolution in taste and aroma while it slowly warms in the glass.
Our West Coast IPA is different. Good different. The nose shows pineapple upside down cake, tinned peach and caramel jersey, while further agitation in the glass brings lifted notes of pine and spice. The palate is fresh, punchy and remarkably well balanced. Toasted malt and Amaretti biscuit square up early, followed by a barrage of sun ripened fruit. Mum’s apricot slice will linger for as long as it takes you to gulp again. Bueno.
This nitro sour utilises over 150 kg of mango puree, along with honey and lactose for sweetness. Additions of cardamom and vanilla lend fragrance, while hop varietals Mosaic, Citra and Mandarina Bavaria enhance the beers fruitiness.
Visually, it's orange and creamy like a Weiss Bar, with aromas of tropical yogurt and vanilla. The palate shows tangy mango, with a silky mouthfeel thanks to the nitro pour. It's sweet, indulgent and a little bit savoury.
Trust us, this is one breaky you won’t want to skip! Brewed with premium malt, wheat and rolled oats, this beer utilises over 250 kg of berries to get you perked up and feeling fine. Visually, it's strawberry haze, with aromas of vanilla, spice and blueberry. The palate is gooey morning juice with a refreshing tang. Maple drizzled oats go long on the finish.
Point Nine is a full-flavoured, hop forward ultra-light. For those who like to drink wise without compromise.
The beer is brewed using the same premium malts as our West Coast Pale Ale. International hops lend delicate aromas, while an unconventional cold mash generates a full body and textured mouthfeel.
Honey hues pair with a persistent head of foam. Expect aromas of stone fruit and candied pineapple. On the palate, fine bitterness complements notes of citrus and baked biscuit.
Point Nine. Drink Wise Without Compromise.
A showcase of the subtle characters of NZ hops. Hints of peach, pine, mint and tropical fruit march up your nostrils and dance across your tastebuds. The unique and colourful NZ hop character is all wrapped up in a “tortilla bun” of good quality Australian, English and German malts. Tipping the scales at 7.8% ABV and 70 IBU this beer is dangerously drinkable and seriously sessionable on a hot summer afternoon.
Brewed with simple grain bill, this beer's big sour hit comes from a combination of lactic acid (generated by Lactobacillus) and tartaric acid (thanks to 110 kg of tamarind puree). Murray River Pink Salt adds a telling tang to the boil, while whirlpool additions of coriander seed and chilli thrust this gose in to overdrive.
On the palate, salt and sour pairs with bright carbonation, accentuating a sherbet like mouthfeel. Chilli emerges fiery on the finish, lingering long and warm.
Specialty malts Carafa III, Chocolate and Crystal contribute to this beer's rich colour; where embers of red cherry burn from the base of the glass. Cacao nib and mulberry form the nose; with lifted notes of cola and spice. The palate is remarkably complex. Lactobacillus has once again supplied us with the perfect serve of acidity – erupting instantly on the centre of the tongue. 200kg of late ferment fruit additions plump up the pint, as sweet soy, dark chocolate and maraschino cherry swirl from cheek to cheek. The fleeting lactic burst reveals an elegant finish, where drawn out thoughts of Black Forest Cake render one chuffed.
To begin, 25 kg of 100% Organic Sencha Green Tea was steeped in 100 litres of hot water to create an aromatic infusion. The tea was then combined in a fermentation vessel with 2,500 litres fresh wort brewed using Pilsner Malt, Wheat, Carapils and a handful of Enigma hops. After fermentation, a further 30 kg of the tea was added to enhance both flavour, aroma and mouthfeel. The result is a light bodied beer with elegant notes of green tea, and a dry slightly tannic finish.
Searching for a light and refreshing beer with a touch of fruit? Look no further, our Pomegranate Sour has you covered! Brewed with Summer in mind, this fresh kettle sour contains over 120kg of pomegranate pulp for a tart and invigorating hit. With soft aromas and a bright, zesty mouthfeel, it’s the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon session with the crew. Pucker up!
Brewed with premium pale malts, this beer boasts a range of unique esters thanks to a clean fermenting Czech Lager yeast. The aroma shows white bread, clove and roasted marshmallow. On the palate, layers of citrus and spice pair with a clean bitterness. It’s new world Pilsner done right.
The beer pours golden, showing aromas of blackcurrant, pine and peach. On the palate, grapefruit and nectarine dominate, with a pleasant oily quality late. The 7% ABV is well integrated, and the bitterness follows suit. A complex finish shows fruit and herbal sage.
Brewed in conjunction with the Beer and BBQ Festival 2019, Hoppy Amber is the ideal rainy day ale. The grain bill supplies a reddish hue, as aromas of sweet malt and pine evoke imagery of your favourite country pub. It's robust on the palate, showing toffee, citrus and a hint of smoke. Chug while its cold.
While the four Sams currently working for Pirate Life scuffle over who this beer was actually named after, the hop varietals Strata, Amarillo and Mosaic are humbly achieving greatness in the glass. If you’re a fan of our Mosaic IPA, this beer will definitely float your boat. And then some. SAM's aroma sings of herbal Indica and tropical fruit, while a second pass at the pint reveals notes of pine and blackcurrant. The palate is punchy, with pineapple, fresh pear and grapefruit leading the charge. Residual malt sweetness enhances the offering which soon opens up to encompass an oily, resinous quality. It’s here that the beers bitterness mark reaches a crescendo. SAM? Wise.
Our ‘New Holland IPA’ is a global showcase of hops. It's low in bitterness, haze less and packed with juicy summer fruits - just the beer to take on the infamous NEIPA!
Pouring golden straw, with a touch of haze, Aussie Pale shows aromas of grapefruit, malt and pine. On the palate, citrus, toasted biscuit and a cleansing mouthfeel. The most defining characteristic of the beer however is its dryness, closing tightly on the palate like a drawstring bag. A great all rounder. Ideal for Friday knock-offs.
There isn’t much to dislike about this beer. A monstrous roasted malt bill, hot-side additions of coffee bean and blackstrap molasses and a big 8.9% price tag. It's black recirculated engine oil in the pint. No sun shining through. Nothing. Heavy dark chocolate notes pair with espresso and coffee liqueur to form the nose. You’re all about to get syruped...
This Cascadian Dark pours an inpenetrable black. On the palate, choc-orange and liquorice is accentuated by a lingering malt sweetness. Citrus aroma dominates the nose, providing a clear contrast to the beer's roasted backbone. Bold, rich and wickedly hoppy.
Barangaroo Ale combines premium malted barley, N.Z. hops and Native Australian Desert Lime for a truly refreshing sensory experience.
It's summer in a glass, with aromas of citrus and biscuit, while a lively palate delivers twangs of Desert Lime. It's fresh, with low hop bitterness and crisp finish.
Beers like this typify the summer season, offering punters the thirst-quenching pint they’re craving while simultaneously provoking the palate in new and exciting ways.
Heavy on the aniseed and rose water, one also detects hints of peppermint and cola, rounding out a striking aromatic offering. On the palate, Brunetta Del Montenegro lands much like a dark herbal digestive. Licorice, bitter orange and star anise abound securing a palate that’s so daring it will have spice-hards queuing up again and again.
By taking the base recipe from our 3.5% Acai and Passionfruit Sour, we’ve loaded up the fermenter with over 120 kg of sweet cherry this time around. Fruit additions play remarkably well off the acidity created by Lactobacillus - a friendly bacteria that converts sugar in to lactic acid. One is instantly hypnotised by this beers glowing ruby hue and the notes of candied cherry darting off the glass. The palate is bright and tart, with raspberry, candied lemon and cherry all vying for your attention. No bitterness, fleeting pucker, red sherbet late. Definitely one for the cherry fanatics out there.
This beer has an abundance of charm. Cinnamon, nutmeg and all spice waft off the glass, triggering memories of Fruit Mince Pies and brandy pudding. The first mouthful is welcome and refreshing. Spice upfront develops quickly into baked ginger snaps and glace cherry, with further hints of raisin and currant. Ho ho ho!
A rich, golden clarity is the first thing you notice about the Festbier, with an ever so slightly off white head. The nose is a blend of sweetness, maltiness and subtle grassy hops, while low bitterness and a smooth mouthfeel keep it drinking easy all day. Prost!
Pouring dark cola, aromas of sweet malt drive the nose. There’s continental loaf too and a touch of spice. The palate shows classic lager esters, bready notes and a hint of dark chocolate. Low bitterness, tight finish, decidedly punchable.
This 3.5% collaboration Lager launched at the Australian Darts Masters competitions in July/August, 2019. It was the perfect accompaniment to tense competition, forehead sweat and boisterous cheers from a stadium full of dart-hards.
Vienna Malt, Wheat and Carapils combine in a light and bready malt bill. Perle hops ground the beer stylistically, while New Zealand's Taiheke lends some trade-mark PL flare. Clean, clear and cruisy. Bullseye!
Modelled on our blisteringly popular Unfazed by the Haze NHIPA, the Ferry Road Ale serves up an abundance of fruit, a clean, crisp mouthfeel and a cruisy ABV.
Desert Lime aka Citrus glauca is a small citrus fruit native to Australia. With a flavour somewhere between lime and grapefruit it perfectly complements the light malt bill and big, fruity hop profile. Slightly tart, completely refreshing and perfect for the summer.
The brief wasn't for a long black, so we turfed the roasted malts and went with something a little lighter. To enhance the beer's sweetness, Lactose was added to the boil, along with a handful of East Kent Golding hops. With a further 40 kg of coffee late ferment, a final ABV of 7.6% and a silky nitro pour, the end result is decadent to say the least! Wafts of sweet malts, coffee and vanilla greet the nose, as you find yourself drawn to the crema atop the pint. One sip sends waves of coffee and caramel across the palate, with threads of stone fruit emerging late. A lengthy finish rewards with more coffee, apricot jam and a touch of acidity.
Brewed with premium pale malts, this light and fruity beer has been gently soured with the good bacteria, Lactobacillus. Over 150 kg of kiwifruit and mandarin bring the recipe to life, while low hop bitterness and a sub 4% ABV give it ultimate sessionability.
It’s a light straw colour, with a delicate aroma due to the souring process. The palate is clean, with a touch of sweetness and a moreish fruity tang.
Kokomo's appearance provokes imagery of a lemon Calippo protruding proudly from its sheath. Expect a palate pleasing dose of pineapple juice, stone-fruit and fresh citrus from this new-world pale. The red berry and white wine notes synonymous with Enigma can be found late as ones lips hone in for another draw.
Candied pineapple, peach melba and honeydew lead the nose down an intricate garden path lined with baby pines. The bitterness is welcome too, unfolding neatly onto a palate still dripping with fruit punch and Packham pear. Kia Ora.
Nitro Coffee Stout is a cold drip thick shake of epic proportions! Malted barley, oats and brown sugar make up a complex mash bill, while the hop varietals Fugles, EKG and Cascade supply floral and earthy notes. The aroma sings of iced coffee, forest berries and vanilla. On the palate, coffee and black cherry are backed by a telling jolt of caffeine. The finish is luxurious, with lifted notes of Ruby Chocolate and cacao.
A creamy head sits on an ocean of chocolate and freshly brewed coffee. Must be a Port Local Porter! Big on the aroma, this beer hits with choc-mint, blackberry and a hint of liquorice. Its not as burly as a stout, with a lower ABV and less residual sugar. On the palate, one can expect a surge of cold drip coffee, with lifted notes of sourdough and spice. Just like an espresso, it finishes dry, with cocoa lingering late. If you’re a fan of dark beers, jump in an Uber and head on down to the Port...you’ll be connecting with the locals in no time.
This genre bending beer combines ingredients and brewing techniques from two traditional styles, resulting in a sensory experience that has all the bases covered. Once poured, tropical fruit and sticky resin pair with a range of distinctive esters, thanks Alchemy II wine yeast and our classic lager strain. It’s a little lighter on the palate than a typical IPA, showcasing bright carbonation and a clean, dry finish. Nicely integrated bitterness, hints of gooseberry and guava. IPL? Hell yep.
Brewed for the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC). The MCC Ale is a 4.5% Aussie Pale ale. Brewed with Pale and Vienna malts to provide a pleasant, malty backbone. A combination of Rakau and Taiheke hops give the brew stone fruit and citrus aromas. Soft fruit characters dominate the palate which finishes crisp and refreshing, with a light, moreish bitterness.
From the second it leaves the bartender’s hand, you know you’re in for a treat. Millions of nitro bubbles ripple down the glass, creating theatre and stability within the pint. Ferrero Roche and chocolate brownie float to the nose. Dive in. The palate rewards with wallops of ganache. Go on, you've earnt it.
We still don't know which we like more, the can design or the beer. We'll let you be the judge! In the pint, it’s golden and inviting. Aromas of tropical fruit and herbal Indica flurry the senses, with a delicate sweetness corralling them both. On the palate, candied fruit pairs with gentle threads of citrus and pine. SA Great.
Tropical Mid utilises New Zealand and Australian hops for an intensely fruit driven bouquet. It’s malt bill is thoughtfully layered, providing body and mouthfeel in lieu of an exaggerated ABV. With the demand for high quality mid strengths steadily on the increase, PL are proud to offer this full flavoured, expertly crafted alternative that well and truly nails the brief. Watching your intake? Lucky you...
They say you shouldn’t mix grape and grain…but we’ve never been too worried about what ‘they’ say. Introducing Social Lube, the explosive new collaboration from Pirate Life Brewery and Riot Wines. Bottoms up!
This meticulously crafted brew combines two and a half thousand litres of fresh Riesling juice with a batch of fully fermented PL Pilsner. The addition of Champagne yeast delivers unique and stylised esters whilst cementing in to place the beer’s generous ABV. 8.4% to be precise. We couldn’t be happier with the final product. Here’s why…
Lube’s bright and brilliant appearance glows like sun through stained glass. White wine, fresh stone-fruit, tart apple cider and aromatic ginger burst in to the nose.
This brewers choice recipe combines the warming qualities of an Irish red ale with the acidic twang of Maraschino cherry and lemon zest. All the good things. A combination of crystal rye and roasted malts deliver a gorgeous, deep autumn hue while anchoring in those toasty and nutty notes. The addition of fruit and a nitro pour guides this brew from old endearing pub to cocktail bar in one fell swoop. New Zealand Wai-iti hops garner more citrus for the party, elaborating further on a rich yet slightly tart palate. The nose will conjure imagery of warm rye loaf with lemon butter and the taste- buds will concur.
I know it’s winter and you can’t put down the Darks. With big bully-dusters like our Imperial Breakfast Stout on tap, who could blame you? As we approach international IPA day this year, we implore you to help us celebrate the style which quite literally put PL on the map...the lager. Hahaha, just kidding, IPA guys. IPA.
Baby Blue, Mosaic, Throwback, Unfazed, IIPA, Tropical IIPA, Kohatu, Strata, Strata Amarillo and to be honest, there are so many more one offs we can’t recall. Truth is we do them well. We do them real well. So why stop now?
By snagging 7 international hop varietals from 7 countries (some never seen before at Pirate Life HQ), we’re venturing in to something exciting. Get a load of this...
Sweet bourbon and basil on the nose, long stretches of liquorice, treacle and tawny later on. Sometimes the wood gives you gold. Occasionally it leaves you Black and Blue.
Strawberries are something that Aussies remember fondly from their childhood, the ubiquitous summertime fruit, a staple in the fridge over the holidays and a regular on the Christmas pavlova. But when it comes to quintessential childhood memory of strawberry, nothing beats a Strawberry Milkshake. After enjoying brewing and drinking our Vanilla Malt Thickshake in winter 2016 we decided that our Third Birthday Celebration was the perfect time to debut a new, summery variation of the milkshake style. Introducing the Strawberry Milkshake IPA…
…To begin, a grain bill of malted barley, wheat and oats are combined with water in our mash tun.
The brewed wort is then sent to the kettle, where additions of lactose and pectin supply the beer with sweetness and viscosity. Half a kilo of Mosaic bittering hops are thrown in here, too.
Once in tank, 5 kg of vanilla pods are painstakingly split, scraped and dropped in post fermentation, along with a further 5 kg of Mosaic. After conditioning, the beer is chilled, lightly filtered and nitrogenised.
In the glass, the nitro puts on a show, eventually settling into a silky crema. Here, vanilla and tropical fruits waft from the glass. The palate is instantly reminiscent of a vanilla malt milkshake - only this one is served with a tidy 7% ABV.