OnTap Magazine

Tell me about the name “Impi”? N&T: We wanted to use an iconic African image or figure to mould our brand around. We contemplated many historic and even mythological African creatures and figures but decided that the Impi warrior resonates with a broad audience and it provides interesting angles for brand development. The Impi warrior was bold, innovative and strategic and we wanted to build our brand on those three foundations. Impi also translates into war, as we feel that the fight for independence within the craft space is key for the survival of craft. You're based at the Victoria Yards in Lorentzville, downtown Joburg; a pretty unusual spot - why there? N&T: We scouted in excess of 40 premises hoping to find the correct spot that would accommodate and complement our brand. It was not an easy process. All the doors seemed to close on us and we almost gave up. We stumbled across this venue by chance and when we saw it we knew that this was the place. Your two beers at the moment are a lager and a pilsner - why those? N&T: South Africans love lagers right!? We felt that these two styles would offer us the best market access and thus developed two unique lines in that regard. Owned by Nico Booysen and Tsietsi Madonsela - two entrepreneurs who love beer - Impi Brewing Co. is the latest addition to the downtown Johannesburg scene. We chatted to them about finding premises, future plans and the war for craft . The beers are called Homestead and Warrior – how did you choose the names? N&T: The Homestead is an important aspect in everyday life in Africa. The Homestead is filled with love, family, kindness, support and peace. We wanted to create a lager that embodies those aspects, and the Homestead Lager was brewed and developed with a core of love. The Warrior...well, you now know what “Impi” means… Are you planning on introducing any ales in future? N&T: Yes we are currently working on an African IPA: a big beer, East Coast-style, eight hop additions. Keep a look out. Is your brewery on site? N&T: We are currently brewing at Brewhogs but we have received our licence and are finalising our plant to be commissioned on site. It will be a 700-litre system and we’ll be offering up to 15 styles of beer on a three -month rotational basis. The core duo will be available year-round. What's in store for the next year or two? N&T: Rapid expansion. New stores. New in-house brewery and exports. What's your favourite local beer at the moment? N&T: Zwakala’s Limpopo Lager. What can we expect when we visit Impi? N&T: A destination bar with a combination of industrial and African elements, great wood- fired pizza and our Homestead Lager and Warrior Pilsner. We’re open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to late.  As told to Thandi Guilherme. 64 | Winter 2018 | ontapmag.co.za