Ben
Google
I love Carwyn cellars and always stop in every time I’m in Melbourne, and for one particular reason.
It’s not just because they have an amazing beer selection on tap, and friendly, knowledgeable staff behind the bar who are always happy to talk me through the wonderful array of beers. It’s not for the ample seating on the street or beer garden, which always have a great atmosphere. Not for the memories of birthdays, predrinks, post marathon celebrations, or other social events I’ve been a part of there. Not for the great food and snacks which after a couple of pints go down an absolute treat. As good as the bottle shop is, with its great selection of local and international craft and specialty beers, wines, spirits and other tasty tipples it’s not the reason I keep coming back time and time again. And as much as I love December rolling around and a new Canvent calendar arriving in the mail to share with family and friends there is something else that keeps me coming back.
The real reason is because of one staff member in particular. Before we knew her name she was known affectionately in our friend group as “Aunty Beer” and “Aunty Carwyn”. I’m not even sure she knows my name, however every time I am in she greets me warmly like an old friend. She’s always bright and bubbly, and excited to show me what new cool and unique beers you have in the fridge. She helped me pick out a selection of beers for my mates birthday after recalling what he had been drinking for the past few weeks. She shares stories about the breweries, and what makes them unique from others. Her knowledge and passion shine through, and on the days I just pop in to say hello I always end up purchasing a few highly recommended “oh you need to try this” beers. Even when I have seen her with other customers, who seem paralysed in a world of choice, unsure of all the words on the cans they’ve never seen before, she takes the time to understand what they enjoy drinking and what they’d like to try. Even for myself she’ll curate a flight to take my tastebuds on a journey.
So thank you Millie, for all that you do for me, and everyone who walks through the door. You’re a real one, the reason I send people your way, and swing past every time I’m in Melbourne. Hopefully I’ll be back in town soon for another beer or two.