Cheers to seasonal flavours at the Barrel Shepherd in Bellambi
Head to the Pioneer Road side of the former King Gee warehouse in Bellambi on any Friday or Saturday afternoon and you’ll find Benny (assistant brewer extraordinaire) and Georg or Chan Bobbert working the bar at the Barrel Shepherd, explaining the naturally fermented drinks like apfelwein (apple cid
“The Barrel Shepherd is an exploration of all things sour and wild, created with good intentions and community in mind” (from the menu folder).
Head to the Pioneer Road side of the former King Gee warehouse in Bellambi on any Friday or Saturday afternoon and you’ll find Benny (assistant brewer extraordinaire) and Georg or Chan Bobbert working the bar at the Barrel Shepherd, explaining the naturally fermented drinks like apfelwein (apple cider) and barrel-aged saison (a type of pale ale) that they specialise in.
The concept for the business stems from the couple’s respect for agriculture and natural ingredients and processes. The products on offer change with the seasons and the availability of local fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers. There’s all kinds of alchemy and natural magic happening in vats and repurposed French oak barrels.
The curve ball that Covid threw many of us has been the Illawarra community’s gain. Georg has always been fascinated by fermentation, a love passed on by his mother, and has been brewing his own beer for more than 10 years. After his employment as a commercial pilot went into a pandemic hiatus, Georg followed his interest in fermented drinks to develop a business. The Barrel Shepherd Bar and Cellar Door in Bellambi opened in May 2022.
Georg’s father was a pioneer biodynamic sheep farmer and was the inspiration for the name The Barrel Shepherd. Georg has brought together his background in sustainable practices and the magic of fermentation to develop his own unique brand.
Naturally, Georg and Chan are foodies as well as brewers. The Barrel Shepherd hosts a variety of rotating food trucks. On the afternoon I visited, the food was provided by Ciro’s Pizza con Lievito Madre. Behind the pizzas is Joel Mucci, ex-Pane Paradiso sourdough baker. Joel tells me that he is preparing to set up business in the old Mamma Mia’s site in Thirroul.
Find The Barrel Shepherd on Instagram or Facebook for new product info, opening hours and food offerings.
Follow Ciro’s Pizza con Lievito Madre on Instagram for further developments.
