Novotel Geelong has launched its own locally-made craft beer and cider in collaboration with independent brewer Bells Beach Brewing.
Novotel Super Crisp, a session ale, and Novotel Apple Cider are now served exclusively across the waterfront hotel’s restaurant, bar, mini bars, and event offerings.
“This is about creating something truly local – a product that not only celebrates our location but also enhances the guest experience in a way that’s uniquely Novotel Geelong,” said Novotel Geelong Food and Beverage Director, Jake Shelberg.
“It’s also a great way for us to support and champion a passionate local producer doing exceptional things in the independently-owned Australian brewery space.”
The partnership – the first-of-its-kind between a Geelong hotel and the local brewery – evolved from an introduction by Steve Oakley, COO of ERDI, the hotel’s parent company, and was brought to life by Shelberg.
Novotel Super Crisp (3.0% ABV) is a low-alcohol session ale brewed with Magnum and Wai-iti hops for “a clean bitterness, balanced by a gentle melon aroma”, while Novotel Apple Cider (5.5% ABV) is described as a dry-style cider crafted from Pink Lady and Granny Smith apple juice sourced from Victoria’s Central Highlands.
The custom-designed cans are inspired by the sweeping bay views from Novotel Geelong’s seventh-floor guestroom balconies.
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Novotel Geelong on this project – marking our first-ever collaboration with a hotel,” said Bells Beach Brewing Brand Ambassador, Doug Savige.
“It’s a fantastic way to bring together two brands that share a passion for quality, community and the local lifestyle. The team at Novotel really embraced the process, from the brewing to the branding, and it’s exciting to see the final products out in the world.”
Earlier this year, the Novotel team joined the brewers at Bells Beach Brewing for a collaborative brew day, deepening the connection between both teams.
The partnership aligns with the Novotel brand’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience through local collaborations that foster community ties and support regional producers.