“It’s just a classic. It feels like if you were to ask me what a West Coast IPA is, I would point to that. It’s spot on.” Martin Bridges on Isthmus Brewing’s 3D IPA
This week, hosts Michael Donaldson and Martin Bridges raise a glass to an incredible underdog story, sitting down with Hamish Ward and Caroline Müller Ward of Isthmus Brewing. The husband-and-wife team has just hit the ultimate high note, taking home the highly coveted Champion Beer title at the New World Beer & Cider Awards for their flawlessly executed classic, 3D IPA. The hosts kick things off with an enthusiastic tasting of the winning brew, praising its old-school West Coast roots and perfect hop profile before diving into a candid interview with the creators.
In a fascinating and transparent conversation, Hamish and Caroline unpack the rollercoaster journey of keeping their brand alive. Hamish opens up about his storied career as the former head brewer at Deep Creek, sharing how the brewery’s sudden liquidation abruptly derailed their expansion plans for Isthmus and forced him to pivot to a career in software. Caroline, a full-time physiotherapist, details the immense logistical juggle of running a side-hustle beer brand while raising a family. They reveal how they’ve managed to maintain world-class quality by contract brewing with the trusted team at Liberty Brewing, proving that you don’t need a massive facility or infinite free time to produce the best beer in the country.
Beyond the celebrations, the episode tackles the harsh realities of the craft beer business. The couple discusses the challenge of building brand presence in Auckland without a physical taproom, and the massive lifeline that nationwide supermarket distribution provides for a small producer. Sticking around after the interview, Michael and Martin unleash a fiery, passionate rant directed at supermarkets that leave delicate, award-winning craft beers sitting on ambient shelves instead of properly chilling them. Crack open a cold one (if you can find it in the fridge) and press play for an inspiring story of resilience, family, and the pursuit of the perfect IPA!