The Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular, affectionately known as GABS, stands as a unique and unrivalled event in the global beer scene.
It is a singular gathering where aficionados can savour 120 fresh and exclusive festival beers, each meticulously crafted by 120 distinct artisanal breweries, predominantly comprising small independent establishments, all in the span of a single day.
Annually, GABS issues a widespread call to breweries near and far, inviting them to tender their interest in brewing a bespoke GABS Festival beer. This summons acts as a fertile ground for brewers to unleash their creativity unhindered. It serves as a crucible of sorts, nurturing concepts for beers that aim to astonish and gratify the palates of attendees. Notably, over 1,400 brews have been concocted for GABS, with some of these festival creations transcending to become chart-toppers, such as Hop Nation’s revered Jedi Juice, Feral Brewing’s esteemed Karma Citra & Imperial Biggie, Deeds Brewing’s sought-after Juice Train NEIPA, and Two Birds Brewing’s iconic Taco, among a host of others!
From the multitude of proposals received, only 120 elite selections secure a coveted spot – constrained by the capacity of taps adorning the vast GABS Festival bar. Each of these chosen brews exudes excitement and singularity as brewers test the boundaries of beer innovation! The current roster is a testament to this ethos, brimming with eccentric and fantastical blends.
In the prevailing trends of 2024, we witness a surge in the incorporation of indigenous ingredients such as native Ooray (Davidson) plums, local macadamias, Australian endemic blood limes, ripe cherries, and grapes sourced from regional vineyards.
Embracing nostalgia from childhood remains a prominent motif. Every sip narrates a tale, evoking nostalgic reminiscences of carefree and joyful moments. Who could resist offerings like S’mores, Warheads, Milky Bar Shake, Fanta Orange, or Cereal for dinner?
Indulgent desserts take centre stage, beckoning all to relish caramelised figs, cherries paired with white chocolate, Dulce de leche, Vienna coffee infused delicacies, custard tarts, Biscoff treats, or the classic chocolate orange.
Furthermore, the experimental blends, though sounding unconventional, unveil surprisingly delightful flavours! Imagine crushed corn tortilla shells, basil & peppercorn infusions, Tajin salt accents, tequila and ghost chilli concoctions, sweet potato interplays with smoky bacon undertones – an array that defies expectations but delivers immensely!
The GABS Festival bars cater to every preference imaginable. From invigorating IPAs, tantalising sours, robust stouts, crisp lagers, velvety porters, fruity brews, smoked varieties to refreshing ciders, the assortment is vast. Beginning from Urban Alley Brewery’s nuanced 2.5% Yu Zerious? Yuzu Russ Fruit Beer to Deeds’ robust 12% Supermassive Black Hole Pastry Stout, the spectrum spans a plethora of choices. To relish this diverse assortment, patrons opt for the renowned GABS Tasting paddle, allowing them to sample five intriguing brews at a time.
Tickets for this unparalleled extravaganza are currently available for purchase at www.gabsfestival.com. Join us at GABS, where beer transcends boundaries and innovation knows no limits! Cheers to a brewtiful experience!
2024 GABS FESTIVAL DATES
SYDNEY
ICC, Darling Harbour
Fri 31 May – Sat 1 June 2024
BRISBANE
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Bank
Fri 14 – Sat 15 June 2024
MELBOURNE
Melbourne Showgrounds, Flemington
Fri 21 – Sun 23 June 2024