Two mates sit in a shed, a very big shed in the Barossa Valley some time in 2002. They muse
about their love of beer, a desire to follow their curiosity and their passion for grand plans
for world (beer) domination. It was in those simple days, dreaming of a future filled with
hops, yeast, barley and beautiful flavours that the idea for Big Shed Brewing Concern was
born!
Fast forward nearly 20 years that those early conversations have grown into something
special. An operation that that produces some consistently brilliant brews and some off the
beaten track gems that wow beer lovers across the country.
Jason Harris and Craig Basford may not have put their first commercial brew under tank
until 2013, but for 9 years, that dream was percolating under the surface, itching to get out.
And when it did, oh how glorious it was!
The pair launched with their now fabled FrankenBROWN, a beast worthy of its name,
packing a punch at a solid 5.3% alcohol. A high percentage of specialty grain brings the soul
of malt, biscuit and coffee notes. A gem of a beer and still a perennial favourite.
In 2015, the boys debuted at GABS with their Golden Stout Time creation; a throwback to
days gone by and a nod to an Aussie icon. It won the Best Festival Beer award that year, why
wouldn’t it, and a legend was truly born. This beer continues to be sought out. Combining a
multitude of flavours yet staying true to the style, this beer remains a “must try” on any
beer lover’s quest.
2018 saw a return to the top of the pops when Big Shed Boozy Fruit again took out the top
gong once more and they made their way into beer immortality!
These days, the specialty and collabs (think Deep Creek and Ballistic Beer) are dove tailed
with a kick arse core range including F Yeah, Kol Schisel, Californicator, FrankenBROWN,
Golden Stout Time, Jetty Jumper, Cherry Popper, Royal Park Lager and Boozy Fruit and the
surprisingly refreshing Straight Up Cider.
In so many ways the boys from that big shed are indicative of the craft beer movement in
Australia. Two guys with a dream and a passion for beer turning hobby into a business, and a
mighty fine one at that!