Victoria Bitter (VB) is a lager that has been a staple in Australian beer culture for over a century. It was first brewed in 1854 by Thomas Aitken at the Victoria Brewery in Melbourne, Victoria. As an expert in the beer industry, I can provide you with a detailed account of the origins and history of Victoria Bitter.
Thomas Aitken, a Scottish immigrant, established the Victoria Brewery in the mid-19th century. Aitken had a passion for brewing and saw an opportunity to cater to the growing demand for beer in the burgeoning city of Melbourne. He crafted a unique lager recipe that would soon become known as Victoria Bitter.
The success of Victoria Bitter can be attributed to Aitken’s dedication to quality and his understanding of the local market. The beer was initially brewed using traditional brewing methods, with a focus on using the finest ingredients available. Aitken’s attention to detail and commitment to maintaining the beer’s consistent taste helped cement Victoria Bitter’s reputation as a top-notch brew.
Over the years, the Victoria Brewery underwent several changes in ownership and management. In 1907, the brewery was acquired by Carlton & United Breweries (CUB), which has since become one of Australia’s largest beer producers. CUB recognized the popularity and potential of Victoria Bitter and continued to brew it using Aitken’s original recipe.
Under CUB’s ownership, Victoria Bitter grew in popularity, becoming one of the best-selling beers in Australia. The brand’s success can be attributed to CUB’s marketing efforts, which positioned Victoria Bitter as a quintessential Australian beer. The iconic green bottle, featuring the distinctive red label with the words “Victoria Bitter” emblazoned across it, became synonymous with Australian beer culture.
In 2011, CUB itself went through a change in ownership when it was acquired by Foster’s Group, an Australian beverage company. Foster’s Group, in turn, was later acquired by the Japanese brewing company, Asahi, in 2020. Asahi’s acquisition of CUB ensured that the tradition of brewing Victoria Bitter would continue under a new parent company.
Today, Victoria Bitter remains a beloved beer in Australia, known for its full-bodied flavor and distinctive bitterness. It has become an integral part of Australian social gatherings, sporting events, and barbecues. The beer continues to be brewed in Melbourne, Victoria, staying true to its roots and maintaining the same dedication to quality that Thomas Aitken established over a century ago.
Victoria Bitter was originally brewed by Thomas Aitken at the Victoria Brewery in Melbourne, Victoria, in 1854. The beer’s success and longevity can be attributed to Aitken’s commitment to quality, CUB’s marketing efforts, and its enduring popularity among Australian beer drinkers. Despite changes in ownership over the years, Victoria Bitter remains a beloved Australian beer and a testament to the country’s beer heritage.