Images supplied
A major new chapter is unfolding in the heart of McLaren Vale, with Penny Red Beer Co transforming the former Red Poles site into a larger brewery, dining and entertainment destination.
The independent brewery has moved from its original home in The Range to a more central McMurtrie Road location, giving owners Jess and Craig room to spread their wings.
Set among gardens, bushland and vines, the new Penny Red already has outdoor spaces, craft beer, local wines and pizzas, with plenty more planned.
For Jess and Craig, the move is less about reinventing Penny Red and more about building on what they have already created.
“We’re creating a bigger, more exciting version of Penny Red. A place where great beer, food and entertainment, combined with a relaxed country atmosphere, come together.”
The former Red Poles site immediately caught their attention, with its character-filled building, established gardens and surrounding landscape.
“It feels like a hidden spot, even though it’s right in the heart of McLaren Vale,” Jess said.
“It’s pure McLaren Vale magic.”
While respecting the history and character of the site has been a priority, Jess and Craig are also bringing Penny Red’s own personality into the space.
“We want people to walk in and feel that familiar Penny Red warmth, just with a whole lot more room to enjoy it.”
The original venue became known for its intimate, relaxed atmosphere, and that is something the couple is determined to carry into the new location.
Whether it is a long-time regular dropping in for a beer, a local settling in for lunch or a visitor discovering Penny Red for the first time, the aim is for the venue to feel welcoming and easygoing.
“It’s still Penny Red, we’ve just got a little more room to have some fun.”
The new venue is already operating with its bar, outdoor areas, pizzas, Penny Red craft beers, local wines and other drinks.
But there is much more to come, with new food offerings, additional spaces and private areas for group celebrations and events all in the works.
“We’re also looking forward to expanding our entertainment and events program,” Jess said.
For now, Penny Red’s brewing operation remains at its original site, where the team has gained additional production space following the move.
That extra room will allow the brewery to experiment with more brews and new releases while continuing to build its range, before brewing equipment is eventually moved across to the McMurtrie Road venue.
“Brewing our own beer will always be at the heart of Penny Red,” Jess said.
While Penny Red will remain a brewery first, Jess and Craig see the new site becoming more of an all-day McLaren Vale destination, bringing together beer, food, live music and events.
At its heart, however, the vision remains simple: to create a place where locals want to return and visitors make a point of discovering.
“This is just the beginning, and we’re excited for people to be part of the journey.”
Penny Red Beer Co
Where: 190 McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale
For more, click here.
