Experience a taste of Belgium in Franschhoek at Hey Joe Brewing Company.
Franschhoek, nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and world-class vineyards. But hidden among the rolling vineyards and picturesque mountains is a Belgian-style brewing gem that is capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike – an artisanal brewing company that is redefining the craft beer scene in Cape Town.
Authentic Brews
With so many incredible breweries in Cape Town, Hey Joe stands out for a number of reasons. Firstly, the brewery is housed in an Abbey-style brewery, which is inspired by the churches or religious buildings in Belgium where Trappist monks brew beer. They have created their own South African version of this concept called the Beer Church.
Hey Joe Brewing Company follows traditional brewing techniques, using copper kettles from Eastern Bavaria with an emphasis on manual brewing processes as opposed to using automated systems. These kettles have a rich history and have produced award-winning beers over the years – in fact, Hey Joe! Brewery is one of only three breweries in the world with the same copper brewhouse!
The copper kettles were originally made in 1961 in Eastern Bavaria and were later moved to Belgium for brewing. In 2019, the kettles were brought to Franschhoek after being purchased and shipped by the company. It took around eight months for the founder of the brewery to restore and reassemble the brewhouse after it was shipped to South Africa, and now they are fully functional and creating the delicious brew that is Hey Joe!
Quality Ingredients
Hey Joe makes use of the finest sourced base ingredients including Malt, Barley, Hops and Yeasts from across the globe including Belgium and Germany. This helps to create beers of a higher quality to for the discerning beer drinker. From hop-forward IPAs bursting with tropical fruit flavours to smooth and malty amber ales, Hey Joe’s brews are crafted with care and attention to detail. Each beer tells a story, reflecting the unique terroir and the spirit of Franschhoek.
Experience it First-hand
Visiting Hey Joe’s tasting room is a true delight for beer enthusiasts. Situated on the outskirts of Franschhoek, the tasting room offers a serene and beautiful setting surrounded by vineyards and gorgeous mountains. The rustic charm of the building and friendly staff adds to the experience, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff who guide them through a curated beer-tasting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, the team at Hey Joe! will ensure that you leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of brewing.
And it’s not just the beers that keep people returning again and again – the menu offers plenty of temptation! There’s small plates for those who just want to snack on bitterballen, bretzels and a blooming onion, or you can tuck into heftier meals like a pizza, burger or rib eye steak. Kids can choose from the children’s menu while those with a sweet tooth have plenty of dessert options to choose from, including soft serve, brownies and a Belgian waffle.
Everyone’s welcome
In addition to the beer tastings and delicious meals, Hey Joe offers the option of its breathtaking setting for various event and intimate celebrations, with various seating areas within the brewery and outside. The brewery is also dog friendly (make sure to order the alcohol-free Hond Bier for your furry companion) so the entire family can enjoy the experience.
In terms of sustainability, Hey Joe implements eco-friendly practices throughout its operations.
includes recycling repurposing materials, working towards minimising water usage and reducing carbon emissions. By embracing these sustainable practices, Hey Joe not only contributes to a healthier environment but also sets an example for other breweries in the industry.
Hey Joe is more than just a brewing company; it is a celebration of the rich brewing traditions, history and the natural beauty of Franschhoek. With its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, the brewery has crafted a range of beers that capture the essence of the Cape Winelands. A visit to Hey Joe’s tasting room is a journey of flavours and experiences, where visitors can indulge in the art of brewing while soaking in the picturesque surroundings.