Billson’s

Billson’s history is as incredible as its revival. The Billson’s Brewery was a brewery established in 1865 in Beechworth, north-east Victoria, and is one of the oldest in the country.

The landmark red brick facade was the home of award-winning ales, porters and stouts well into the 1950’s. From the 1920’s, the brewery slowly increased their small-batch production of sodas and traditional non-alcoholic cordials under the ‘Murray Breweries’ label. These beverages were and still are produced following hand-written original recipes and methods, with unique flavours including Sarsaparilla, Portello and Raspberry Vinegar.

Nathan Cowan took over the business and it was only a cordial business when he did. In only a few short years Cowan restarted the Brewery with a Lager, Pale Ale and a Porter just to name a few, while continuing to expand the cordials business.

Billson’s is built on top of a natural spring which its fresh water is used to make all their products from spirits to beer and even the cordials.

The range of beverages available is impressive but we want to look closers at the spirits, with Gin, Vodka & Liqueur’s making up the current offerings. (I expect we will see a whiskey at some point)

If you love Gin there are plenty to sample here starting with “George’s Dry Gin” named after George Billson who founded the original brewery. Handcrafted with alpine spring water & a unique blend of 11 local botanicals including native finger limes.

The newest products to hit shelves everywhere are the Billson’s premixed vodka cans with the teams cordial flavors and they are proving a hit! Their Vodka with Portello is a nostalgic favourite and a must try if you ever see them in a bottle shop.

Billson’s may not be as well know in town as the Bakery or the other Brewery but I think it will only be a matter of time before it is. Be sure to take a visit to and make a reservation though their website.