Who owns White Rabbit beer?

Answered by John Watkins

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing and discovering a wide range of beers. One such that has caught my attention is White Rabbit. White Rabbit is a craft brewery that has gained popularity for its unique and flavorful beers. However, the question of who owns White Rabbit is an important one, as it provides insight into the brewery's history and direction.

White Rabbit was originally founded in 2009 in Healesville, a small town located in the Yarra Valley region of Victoria, Australia. The brewery quickly gained a reputation for its innovative techniques and commitment to producing high-quality beers. The original home of White Rabbit in Healesville was a place of innovation and creativity, where the brewers experimented with different flavors and styles to create their signature beers.

However, in 2014, White Rabbit's owner Lion made the decision to close the brewery's original home in Healesville. This announcement came as a surprise to many fans of the brewery, as the location had become synonymous with the White Rabbit brand. The decision to close the Healesville brewery was made in order to consolidate production and focus on larger-scale brewing operations.

So, who exactly owns White Rabbit now? Lion, one of Australia's largest companies, is the current owner of White Rabbit. Lion has a strong presence in the Australian beer market, with a portfolio that includes well-known brands such as Tooheys, James Squire, and Little Creatures. The acquisition of White Rabbit by Lion allowed the brewery to reach a wider audience and benefit from the company's extensive resources and distribution networks.

While some may argue that the ownership of White Rabbit by a large beverage company like Lion takes away from the brewery's craft and independent spirit, it is important to remember that ownership does not always dictate the quality or authenticity of a beer. Many craft breweries have been acquired by larger companies in recent years, and while there may be some changes in production or distribution, the core values and craftsmanship of the beer often remain intact.

In my personal experience, I have found that White Rabbit beers continue to impress with their unique flavors and attention to detail. The brewery's commitment to using quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods shines through in each sip. Whether it's their iconic White with its hints of coriander and orange peel, or their Dark Ale with its rich and complex profile, White Rabbit consistently delivers on taste and quality.

White Rabbit is currently owned by Lion, a prominent beverage company in Australia. While the closure of the brewery's original home in Healesville may have been a disappointment to some, the ownership by Lion has allowed White Rabbit to expand its reach and continue producing exceptional beers. Regardless of ownership, the true test of a beer lies in its flavor and craftsmanship, and White Rabbit continues to excel in both areas.