Andrew Ranum joined Deep Creek in 2016 as their General Manager. When the brewery sold the brewpub in Browns Bay, Andrew left his GM role and became a part-owner and brewer at Browns Bay Brewing Co.
He goes face to face with Joshua Lee aka Hazzy Hunter.
Hazzy Hunter: Hey guys, this is Hazzy Hunter here at Browns Bay Brewing, and I am here with Andrew Ranum. Andrew, what is your favourite beer to brew?
Andrew Ranum: I always enjoy brewing our Double IPA. It’s one of those beers that gives our kit a real workout. Every time we brew it, it’s a different challenge, which keeps things interesting. It’s great to problem-solve on the fly, and yeah, it’s a good beer, lots of hops.
Hazzy Hunter: I love those Double IPAs too! So, what is your favourite beer to drink?
Andrew Ranum: I’m definitely an IPA kinda guy. My go-to is a West Coast IPA. I’m quite partial to Knife Party from Liberty; that’s a particular favourite.
Hazzy Hunter: Knife Party, I love that beer too. It isn’t hazy but I settle for it! What is your favourite bar, apart from Browns Bay Brewing?
Andrew Ranum: I’ve always had a soft spot for 16 Tun in the Wynyard Quarter. I opened that bar, I was the opening manager, and I still like going down there. It’s a good spot.
Hazzy Hunter: I was actually there on Saturday night, it’s a great spot! What’s your favourite place to eat after a night out?
Andrew Ranum: I don’t tend to go out for late-night sessions much these days, but when I lived in the UK, I used to frequent a place called Café Boheme in Soho after a night out. It was open late and always hit the spot.
Hazzy Hunter: What is the most underrated New Zealand brewery?
Andrew Ranum: That’s a tricky one. Recently, I’ve been really enjoying the beers from Heyday. We’ve had a few of their beers on tap, and I haven’t found a dud yet. Also, Two Thumb from Christchurch has some great beers.
Hazzy Hunter: What’s your guilty pleasure when it comes to beverages?
Andrew Ranum: You’re not too far off with the vodka cruisers! I actually enjoy those little margarita premixes in a can. They’re dangerously good.
Hazzy Hunter: Tell us something people might not know about Browns Bay Brewing.
Andrew Ranum: Well, we might not have much exposure around the country yet, but we’re working on it. As for me, I actually sidestepped into brewing and hospitality from endangered species research. I studied conservation and spent three years working in that field before moving into hospitality and eventually brewing.
Hazzy Hunter: Wow, who would have thought! Alright, two more questions. If you were on death row, what would be your last beer?
Andrew Ranum: It would have to be something high octane, like an imperial stout. Let’s go with the 8 Wired Batch 2.18 or Bumaye. Both are around 11% and 16%, so they’d definitely help numb the pain.
Hazzy Hunter: Final question: Hazy‘s here to stay?
Andrew Ranum: Hazy IPAs are here to stay. They’re not a fad, they’re here for good.
Hazzy Hunter: That’s what I like to hear! Thanks for the chat, Andrew. Cheers!
Browns Bay Brewing Co: 111 Clyde Rd, Browns Bay, Auckland