Coopers Brewery has unveiled a game-changing AUD$70 million venue in Adelaide, two years after the landmark expansion was first announced. Promising to deliver a new benchmark for the Australian craft beer industry, Coopers’ new brewery introduces the latest distillation technology to the brand’s staunchly traditional approach to go along with a world-class dining experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the beloved South Australian brand or just enjoy a good cold one, the latest Adelaide outpost sees Coopers Brewery at its absolute apex.
Located next to Coopers’ existing brewery at Regency Park, the brand-new facility features a vibrant restaurant and three bars, family-friendly dining areas, a dedicated tasting room, and even a microbrewery and whisky distillery. I was fortunate enough to be invited to the extravagant opening event at the new brewery and let me tell you, the Coopers family sure knows how to put on a party!
At an opening event officiated by South Australian Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Coopers celebrated the new venue with trademark enthusiasm. The energy was electric, even before anyone had downed a beer, as members of the Cooper family, alongside architects, engineers, and industry heavyweights, gathered to celebrate the latest achievement, which Coopers’ managing director, Dr Tim Cooper described as ‘truly world-class’.
“This is one of the most exciting projects we’ve undertaken in the 162-year history of Coopers Brewery,” Dr Cooper said. “We wanted every aspect to be truly world-class and of the highest quality. It’s a significant, long-term investment by our family company and our vote of confidence in the future of Coopers and Australia’s manufacturing industry.”
A World-Class Experience
I’m not exaggerating when I say this isn’t just another brewery; it’s an all-encompassing premium experience. With room for up to 400 guests, the restaurant and bar area offers a beer-inspired menu perfectly paired with an extensive selection of Coopers beers on tap. Guests with a more adventurous palate can even get their hands on exclusive craft beers from the on-site microbrewery that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
Hospitality veteran Peter Morelli is at the helm, ensuring every visit is one to remember. The revamped brewery tours now include access to the new facilities and an interactive history display, with all proceeds supporting the Coopers Foundation’s charitable work.
One of the most interesting features is the Coopers Museum located in the sky bridge linking the existing brewery to the multi-million dollar visitor centre. As well as showcasing the long history of the family-owned brand, several interactive installations provide extensive insight into what makes Coopers Beer what it is today.
A stand-out feature for me was a pair of intricate LEGO installations meticulously crafted by local artist Micah Sarre. Comprising over 42,623 LEGO pieces, these stunning displays vividly depict Coopers’ two iconic breweries—Leabrook (1881-2001) and Regency Park (2001-present)—offering a unique, interactive glimpse into the brand’s storied history.
Innovation Meets Tradition
At the heart of Coopers’ new brewery lies the microbrewery, a space dedicated to innovation and creativity in brewing. This microbrewery isn’t just an add-on; it represents Coopers’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing while staying true to the brand’s roots.
These small-batch brews are exclusive to the brewery, offering a unique tasting experience that showcases the creativity and expertise of Coopers’ brewing team. Whether it’s a bold new IPA, a seasonal ale, or a reimagined classic, each brew from the microbrewery is crafted with the same dedication to quality that has defined Coopers for over 160 years. Meanwhile, the existing brewery continues to churn out over 90 million litres of beer each year.
“We wanted our new facility to be more than just a continuation of our long-standing brewing traditions; it’s about embracing the future of craft beer. The microbrewery allows us to experiment with new styles and techniques, offering visitors something truly unique and exclusive to this site,” Dr Tim Cooper added.
Coopers Whisky
While Coopers is synonymous with beer, I was surprised to learn about the brand’s new venture into whisky distilling, set to carve out an exciting new chapter in the brewery’s long history. Nestled within the state-of-the-art facility, the whisky distillery is a testament to Coopers’ commitment to innovation while staying true to its craft roots.
The distillery boasts custom-made copper stills, imported from Scotland, which are at the heart of the whisky-making process. Using malt produced on-site, Coopers is gearing up to produce their own unique whisky, although it will be a few years before we get to enjoy the first bottles. This new addition is not just about expanding their product line; it’s about deepening the connection between the barley fields and the finished spirit, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the early stages of whisky production.
Visitors to the brewery can explore the distillery, learning about the meticulous process involved in creating whisky—from grain to glass. For those intrigued by the craftsmanship behind fine spirits, this is a must-see feature of the new Coopers facility.
A Beer-Inspired Culinary Experience
The new Coopers Brewery isn’t just a place to enjoy world-class beer; it’s also a culinary destination in its own right. The restaurant and bar facilities, which can accommodate up to 400 guests, feature a menu that’s been thoughtfully designed to pair perfectly with Coopers’ extensive range of beers.
“Our aim with the restaurant and bar facilities was to create an experience that goes beyond just beer. The menu has been carefully crafted to complement our range of Coopers beers, offering dishes that are inspired by the very brews we produce,” said Dr Tim Cooper during the opening ceremony. “It’s about creating a space where people can come together, enjoy great food, and truly immerse themselves in the Coopers experience.”
When Can I Visit?
The new Coopers Brewery opened its doors to the public on August 28, offering tastings, meals, and tours. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious about the future of Australian brewing, this is one destination you won’t want to miss.
Disclaimer: The author of this article, John Guanzon, travelled to the new Coopers Brewery in Adelaide as a guest of the Coopers for the purposes of this article.
