William Wilson, ICC Sydney’s Food and Beverage Manager, Sommelier, and Certified Cicerone®, is gearing up for one of his favourite events of the year – The Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular (GABS) 2025, happening at ICC Sydney on 30 and 31 May.
With over a decade as Chief Steward at the Sydney Royal Beer and Cider Show, he’s got a sharp eye for what’s new and next in the beer world. This year’s GABS kicks off the Winter season, when local breweries roll out bold, dark, and delicious brews known as Winter Warmers. Out of the 120 unique beers brewed just for the festival, William has picked a paddle of five standout NSW beers that he says you absolutely shouldn’t miss…enjoy!
Badlands Brewery The Gloaming Baltic Porter
Badlands from Orange is one of my personal favourites and this strong black beer is aged with fresh local plums and Smith and Jones Bourbon Barrel Whisky giving it so much complexity. If you have a chance, the Badlands Brewery in the middle of the town is well worth a visit.
Earth Beer Company Maple Macadamia Brown Ale
The brewers at the Earth Beer Company in the Northern Rivers have ramped up their toasty Brown Ale by adding local toasted macadamias and genuine Canadian Maple Syrup; sweet and rich but well balanced.
Six String Brewing Co. Broken Bay Pearl Oyster Stout
Six String from Erina has just opened a new tap room that should be on your list of places to visit on the Central Coast. This delicious stout is made with 1,000 oysters from the Broken Bay Pearl Farm on the Hawkesbury with a hint of sea salt enhancing the flavours of the dark, full-bodied style.
