OnTap Magazine

6 | Autumn 2026 | ontapmag.co.za SOUTH AFRICAN HOMEBREWERS SHARE BEERS SHOWCASING SA HOPS WITH VISITING AMERICAN HOMEBREWERS Brew Your Own (BYO) magazine recently organized a visit to South Africa for American homebrewers for them to learn about local beer culture. Included in this visit was an event spearheaded by beer writer and judge Lucy Corne to specifically showcase South Africa’s unique hop varieties. Hosted at Shackleton Brewing Company in Cape Town, 20 local homebrewers shared beers they had brewed for the event, relying exclusively on South African hops. The visiting American homebrewers were given score cards and invited to taste the 20+ lagers, pale ales, and IPAs available, and to swap tips and tricks with their South African counterparts. Votes were cast for the favourite overall beer, with the winner receiving the chance to brew their recipe on the commercial system at Shackleton, to be served on site. In the end, Michael Van Der Linde’s “Dry Mopped Hazy Pale Ale,” brewed with Southern Passion, African Queen, and Southern Star hops, won the honour. BRAND RELAUNCH AT 4 DEGREES BREWERY & TAPHOUSE 4 Degrees Brewery & Taphouse has relaunched their brand with a new look and line-up of offerings. The revamp follows the addition of two new directors, as Founder Mike Davies is joined by Paul Colyn and Vickus Horne. 4 Degrees is the home of the brand’s original beer, as well as beers from their legacy brand, Hopman Brewery. The space also hosts a taproom along with Tannie’s Pizzeria. Adding to their agenda, 4 Degrees has introduced monthly “Bands in the Brewery” performances by local musicians, craft gin tasting experiences, and the opportunity to host private events in the brewery’s venue space. Keep an eye on their Instagram and Facebook for the latest news as it launches: @4degreesontap.