Local Downlow #1 Crank Handle Brewery Mt Beauty

A Cranking Good Brew is what the Crank Handle Brewery in Mt Beauty delivers in spades reports our local lowdown reporter Trent Abberfield.

Mick Piera has done something that I did not think possible! He has made me enjoy craft beer again. After far too many acidic IPA’s and lagers and ales that taste of nothing but, well, IPA, I had all but given up on craft brews and gone back to imports.

But hold those Dan Murphy deals. Mount Beauty’s Crank Handle Brewery is home to six of the best craft brews I have ever tasted.

Crank Handle has the usual eclectic names for their brews. However, here they all taste like they should.

From the refreshing and complex Alpine Ale to the exquisite Philthy Phills Porter, there is something for everyone on this menu.  You can get a tasting flight for those that want a bit of everything. Mick has six beers to choose from all brewed on the premises.

The Alpine Ale has hints of Germany in its heart, with Malt and wheat in the recipe. 

The second is Kell’s Kolsch a true Kolsch. In fact, this is the best Kolsch I have tried in Australia. It took me back to sitting in a bar in Cologne Germany where Kolsch is from. It is almost indistinguishable from a draft Kolsch anywhere in Cologne.

This brew is  named for Mick’s late wife Kell, who sadly passed away this year. I loved this one.

Dangerous Dave’s Lager is everything it should be, winter afternoons for Aprés or summer days by the pint, it should be enjoyed with one of the incredible charcuterie or local cheese boards available any time over the bar.

Bruno’s Bitter is a magnificent beer, Escape to The Country encapsulated in a glass as it whisks you away to the fields of Kent. Enjoy it in a pint with the delicious wagyu burger sourced from local Kiewa Valley beef.

I loved the Kolsch, but Bruno’s Bitter beer was divine. If you have ever enjoyed a Kentish ale or bitter and wanted its brother here, this is the beer for you.

APA American Pale Ale. Wow, what a beer! Loved every drop of this classic Pale Ale. Have it with the kransky and sauerkraut roll, again local smoked Kransky.  A pleasure to drink.

Last but not least is the beautiful smooth rich Philthy Phill’s Porter,

This dark beer is amazing. I am going to be up front, I have never met a porter I did not hate, until now.

But this could turn any beer hater into a seasoned drinker. A perfect aprés match enjoyed inside next to the fire while eating local cheese. 

Crank Handle has been beset by the issues of the last 18 months. Devastating summer bush fires, COVID lock downs, no winter season, Falls Creek closed, and not to Mention Mick’s personal heartbreak.

When you are on you way to Falls Creek for a ski in winter or bike ride or drive in any season, make sure you stop and sample the art of craft beer at its best. I will be back again. And again.

There’s parking out front, with a taxi service available if you’re staying in Mount Beauty.

For the Crank Handle’s full menu and winter opening times check them out at www.crankhandlebrewery.com.au

Open at present from Friday to Sunday 11am to 8pm,

Open for Lunch and Dinner as well as cheese and meat boards.