A new limited-release beer from Felons Brewing Co. is set to debut in Brisbane, with the brewery unveiling Greek Lager to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Paniyiri Greek Festival.
The collaboration brings together Felons’ contemporary craft brewing approach with flavour inspiration drawn from the Mediterranean. The result is a crisp, clean lager with bright citrus notes, a light malt profile and a smooth finish, designed to suit both the subtropical climate and the high-energy festival environment.
“For 50 years, Paniyiri has brought people together through food, music and culture, so to have a bespoke brew by Felons Brewing Co. that captures the essence of the festival is the perfect way for locals to raise a can and cheers to 50 years of community, culture and connection,” Co-Chairman of the Paniyiri volunteer organising committee, Kos Kastrissioss said.
Designed with food pairing in mind, Greek Lager has been developed to complement classic Greek dishes, positioning it as a key part of the festival experience. Brewed at Felons’ riverside site beneath Brisbane’s Story Bridge, the beer reflects a growing trend of local breweries drawing on international styles and flavour profiles.
“Paniyiri is known for uniting people through food, dance and drink, and this collaboration with Felons Brewing Co. will offer the 50,000 people expected to join us for the festival this year the chance to enjoy a new, memorable, and unique brew in our special milestone year,” Kos said.
Felons welcomed the opportunity to create a beer specifically for the event, leaning into the accessibility and sessionability of the lager style while maintaining a full-bodied, easy-drinking profile.
“This new partnership signifies our combined passion on bringing community together,” said Felons Brewing Co. Brand Director Dean Romeo.
“Paniyiri has been celebrating food, music and good times in Brisbane for 50 years and to brew a refreshing Greek Lager for that milestone is an amazing opportunity.
“We’re proud to perfect a refreshing lager inspired by the mediterranean and to cheers to Greek culture, connection and happiness,” he said.
Greek Lager will make its first appearance at the official launch event, Brisbane’s Biggest Greek Dinner, before being poured across the festival weekend in late May.
