Shoalhaven Wineries and Breweries
After a day at the beach or out on the water, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing drink. Fortunately, the Shoalhaven isn’t just ideal for outdoor adventures, it is also known for its thriving food and wine culture. Here are some of the best Shoalhaven wineries and breweries you simply have to visit!
First up, some of our local breweries, brewing that cold, tasty liquid all year round!
Jervis Bay Brewing Co
Since its opening in December 2019, Jervis Bay Brewing Co has had to endure the Black Summer Bushfires and a pandemic, but they have pulled through to become one of Jervis Bay’s most popular drinking spots for both locals and visitors. The beer garden is family-friendly (kids playground, board games + delicious drinks for the kids), dog-friendly and staffed by a team who are truly happy to see you. Hungry? You’ll find a different food truck on-site each day serving up delicious snacks while you sample pale ales and XPAs. You can also grab takeaways for your BBQ or beach adventure.
Flamin Galah Brewing Co
Flamin Galah Brewing Co is the latest brewery on the block, owned and operated by local couple Sam and Claire Hewson. Opening just before COVID-19 took off, it’s fair to say that the couple has had their challenges in getting Flamin Galah off the ground. However, their sit-in brewery in Huskisson is now open and is already a hit with the locals! Family and pet-friendly, Flamin Galah brewery also serves a selection of local wines, cocktails and takeaway food from some of the Shoalhaven’s most popular food trucks. No bookings required!
You can also purchase Flamin Galah from most local bottle shops. Their range is made up of seven varieties – a Flamin Galah Pale Ale, a Pilot Neipa, Cosmos IPA, Iwatake IPA, an XPA, a Hooroo Hazy Neipa, and a Pink City Raspberry Ale.
South Yeast Brewing Co
After experimenting with homebrewing at home and years of experience working in the hospitality and live music industries, Simon and Joey Panucci decided to open up their own brewery last year just around the corner from where they grew up. South Yeast Brewing aims to create a friendly, relaxed environment where their customers can have a drink, listen to music and enjoy some of the Shoalhaven best street food. The brothers’ passion for brewing is evident in everything they do, and they just love to chat to their customers about their products. South Yeast Brewing is open Thursday to Sunday – check their social pages for updates to operating hours.
Husky Brewing
Husky Brewing is the hidden gem of the Shoalhaven brewery scene, but it won’t stay that way for long! Located on Cumberland Ave in Nowra’s Flinders Estate, Husky Brewing offers a good range of craft beers, an amazing atmosphere and lovely local wines for those that don’t drink beer! Husky Brewing can also put together takeaway grazing boxes, and you’ll also find local food trucks parked out the front serving up delicious bites. Follow Husky Brewing on social to keep up with all the latest updates.
Tara Distillery
Not quite a brewery, but as the Shoalhaven’s first-ever craft distillery, we think Tara Distillery deserves a mention. Located in Nowra Hill, Tara Distillery is best known for its Pot Still Gin, but also produces Vodka and a range of other spirits. Sustainability is one of the distillery’s key areas of focus. All their products are made using local Australian ingredients and harvested rainwater run on steam mills. You can order online or find them at local markets. Follow their Facebook page to find out more.
Shoalhaven Wineries
The Shoalhaven is lucky enough to have a number of award-winning wineries on our doorstep. Here’s a few of our favourites…
Silos Estate
Tracing its history back to 1870, Silos Estate produces a range of premium wines that emphasise the unique characteristics of the Shoalhaven region, while its Wileys Creek label sources fruit from other wine growing regions in Australia. Situated between the mountains and the coast, Silos Estate also features boutique accommodation and a restaurant – ideal for a romantic weekend away.
Two Figs
Established in 2003, by a local husband and wife team, Two Figs is a small boutique winery producing premium, hand-crafted wines. The Shoalhaven’s temperate climate allows Two Figs to produce soft, approachable wines with fruit sourced onsite and from nearby locations. We highly recommend a visit to the cellar door next time you’re in the area (the local produce plates are to die for!).
Mountain Ridge Wines
Mountain Ridge is known not just for its lovely wines, but for incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. A popular destination for both wine lovers and travellers, bookings are essential for both the restaurant (breakfast from 9 am daily; lunch from 11.30 am daily) and the cellar door (9 am–3 pm weekdays; 9 am–5 pm weekends). With friendly bartenders, excellent service and delicious food, you are guaranteed a memorable day out.