Chuck Hahn won't need much introduction to Australian beer drinkers given his decades-long involvement in the local industry. Earlier this year, his storied career in beer began another chapter as he launched an indie brewery with his family.
Having enjoyed his time connecting with local drinkers at the Sydney brewpub, Chuck is now looking to form an official tasting panel through which the five members will have the chance to provide feedback on the Sydney brewery's beers and guide new releases.
If you'd like to be one of the lucky few, here's what you need to know.
BEER LEGEND CHUCK HAHN LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN FOR OFFICIAL TASTING PANEL AT CHUCK AND SON’S BREWING CO.
In exciting news for beer aficionados, Chuck Hahn is launching a campaign to find a Tasting Panel of five for his new brewery, Chuck and Son’s Brewing Co.
Chuck, the palate behind some of Australia’s most beloved beer brands, including Hahn, James Squire, and Kosciusko, recently brought his 50 years of brewing experience to his own independent, family-operated craft brand, alongside his son, Scott Hahn. Having launched six months ago to an overwhelmingly positive reception from beer lovers and the industry alike, Chuck is now seeking to further involve the beer community, with an official Tasting Panel.
“Since we launched in May, one of the best parts of my week has been spending time in our St Peters Tap Room,” says Chuck. “Talking to our patrons, pouring them a fresh beer and hearing their feedback? It’s been a real treat. So, I decided to extend it.”
With Chuck’s Tasting Panel, five individuals will be chosen to attend quarterly tasting sessions with Chuck and Scott themselves, as well as Head Brewer, Richard Van Grootel. They will taste all current beers on rotation as well as brews in development, providing feedback and tasting notes to influence the brand’s brewing decisions.
Routinely referred to as the godfather of Australian brewing, Chuck is lauded for the creation of a real beer culture in Australia, largely contributing to the growth of the craft scene.
“With Chuck and Son’s Brewing Co., we’ve carved out our own space in the crowded craft market with beers that have become instant classics,” says Chuck. “They’re my proudest work so far, and now I’m ready to brew even more – crafted to the preferences of those who enjoy our beers every day.”
The team will be scouring social media to find their Tasting Panel. Those who want to enter need to share a review of the brand’s beers on socials, tagging @chuckandsonsbrewing along the way. They’re looking for a variety of palates and preferences, but most of all, are looking for those with a keen interest in the nuances of beer and are happy to let their personalities shine.
“We’re going to make this an exceptional experience for our panel,” says Scott. “There will be cases taken away, snacks and drinks at every step, incredible conversation, and maybe even some very special merch. Yes, it’s in design right now.”
“Throughout my career, it’s been key to listen directly to the people drinking my beers,” says Chuck. “But apart from ad hoc conversations at the pub, that became quite hard. Now, with our own independent brand and venue, we can quite literally open the doors to hear what people think, and to help us brew the beers that will delight their palates and impress their friends.”
The mission to find Chuck’s Tasting Panel launches on November 28 and closes on December 31, 2024. Full details can be found at chuckandsonsbrewing.com.au.
