Woolshed Brewery unleashes its latest creation for the GABS beer festival.

by Trick Broughton

Get ready, beer enthusiasts and culinary adventurers! The countdown has begun for one of Australia’s most anticipated events in the world of beer – The Great Australian Beer Spectapular (GABS for short) Festival 2023. This annual celebration of independent breweries is a true treat for the senses, bringing together the best and brightest in the craft beer industry and taking place across Eastern Australia and Auckland NZ. As the festival draws near, we are thrilled to unveil our latest creation brewed specifically for the GABS festival, the ‘Meat Pint’—a dark stout infused with the delectable spices (and real, actual meat pies) of South Australia’s beloved pie maker, Vili’s Family Bakery. Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary experience like no other! It’s literally a meal in a can.

At the heart of GABS Festival lies the spirit of innovation and collaboration. Independent brewers from across the country are invited to submit their unique brews, pushing the boundaries of traditional beer-making. For this year’s event, we wanted to pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of South Australia while incorporating the essence of the classic Aussie beef pie.

Meat Pint is truly a Marriage of Flavors: Inspired by Vili’s Family Bakery, an icon in South Australia, we set out to create a beer that would embody the comforting and distinctive flavors of their famous meat pies. The Meat Pint is a dark stout that skillfully blends the brewery’s craftsmanship with the traditional spices and seasonings of Vili’s pies, and brewed with 100 real meat pies. With hints of warm pepper, savory herbs, and a touch of smokiness, this unique brew promises to be a captivating journey for your palate.

The brewing process behind the Meat Pint was a labor of love, driven by the desire to capture the essence of Vili’s Family Bakery’s heritage.

Our dedicated brewer Jackson Beavis carefully selected the finest quality ingredients, combining them in perfect harmony to create a beer that pays tribute to the flavors that have delighted generations.

The aroma of the Meat Pint is a tantalizing blend of roasted malts and a subtle hint of the spices that give Vili’s pies their signature taste. As you take your first sip, the velvety smoothness of the stout envelops your tongue, giving way to layers of complexity. The gentle warmth of the spices and the rich, roasty character of the beer dance together, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that lingers long after each sip.

As you step into the vibrant atmosphere of GABS Festival, make sure to seek out the Meat Pint booth and indulge in this exceptional brew. It’s a remarkable chance to celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of independent brewers who bring their passions to life in every glass.

Beyond the Meat Pint, you’ll discover a plethora of other unique and enticing beers from breweries across Australia. From hoppy IPAs to fruity sours, the festival offers a diverse range of flavors that cater to every taste preference. Engage with fellow beer enthusiasts, learn from master brewers, and relish in the remarkable camaraderie that permeates the event.

But most importantly, make sure to raise your glass of Meat Pint, a testament to the adventurous spirit of GABS Festival and the vibrant tapestry of Australian craft beer.

Check out the video of the brewing process below, and see you at GABS!