The Art of Beer Pairing:
Sipping Zambia’s Premium Craft Beer at Ciela
If you venture 20 minutes outside Lusaka, you will discover The Brewery at Ciêla. Established in 2021, The Brewery is exactly what it says it is, and its honesty is the first form of refreshment you will experience. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the scents of freshly cut grass and the tranquil ambience of the Lusaka countryside.
The Brewery’s tall windows let in ample sunlight, illuminating the clean and open loft-style space. Steel meets wooden accents bathed in muted golden light with warmth and inventiveness that is airy enough to make anyone feel welcome and included.
At the heart of The Brewery’s offering is Rebel, a brew that challenges everything you might know about beer. Why beer? Brad Dinner, Brewery Manager at Rebel Beer, is a rare find with twenty years of experience in the beverage industry. He is humble about his extensive accolades in sourcing, crafting, training and understanding all the elements that make a beer great. Yet, his deep passion seeps through, making him the best person for a beer drinker at any stage to meet. Brad is the one you want to pour your first and last beer in life, but because of Rebel, he gets to make all the beers in between.
“I want to create new possibilities and expand people’s spectrum of knowledge of what beer is and what beer can be,” Brad explains.
Rebel combines craft and experience to create a product rich in passion and inventiveness. Beer is often associated with bitter flavours, but Rebel defies these stereotypes. It is a Trojan Horse, delivering flavours that initially meet these expectations before pleasantly subverting them, offering a time and taste for everyone.
The Brewery curates a new culinary experience with Rebel beer and delectable American-style dining. I opted for Rebel beer tasters and some restaurant staples. The Light Lager paired beautifully with the delicate Thai fish cakes, as its crisp, clean finish balances the rich, spicy kick of red chilli, fresh ginger, and vibrant lemongrass.
The Dark Lager, a formidable entry, surprises with its fruity notes of guava and grapefruit and inviting aroma. It complements grilled Cajun chicken wings with its robust, malty flavours, which enhance the smoky BBQ sauce and spicy Cajun rub while also offering a refreshing contrast.
With its smooth, slightly sweet profile, Premium Lager perfectly matches mini chicken tacos. It harmonises with the cumin, garlic, and paprika seasoning and cuts through the tangy tomato salsa, making each bite a delightful experience. The Spicy Blonde served like a cocktail with rosemary and a slice of orange, introduces a new spectrum of flavours and a titillating way to enjoy a beer. Zapa Pale Ale is familiar and friendly, like an inside joke between friends.
Be warned, the complementing flavours are irresistible – you can’t have just one wing or beer. Each sip is a revelation. You wince and prepare for the familiar bite of beer, which never comes. Instead, Rebel is refreshing through the whole range from the first sip to the last drop, perfect for sunny days and easy conversations.
What’s Next for Rebel?
Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy this proudly Zambian beer anywhere as Rebel begins its canning process to reach more places across the country. This will allow you to challenge the narratives of beer while creating your own extraordinary experiences anywhere.
Quick Facts about Rebel Beer:
Meet the Rebels
The Rebel range includes a Premium Lager, a Pilsner, a Spicy Blonde, a Zapa—pale Ale, a Light Lager, and a Dark Lager. As the colours, flavours, and contents intensify, each beer manages to maintain its balance.
Naturally Brewed
Rebel is a natural beer that is naturally carbonated with yeast. It is round and balanced, allowing the realness of the ingredients to shine through. Quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and a hint of magic make Rebel what it is.
Contact Details:
Tel: +260 962223605
