Independent Victorian brewery KAIJU! Beer has taken out the prestigious Best Australian Style Lager award at the 2025 Australian International Beer Awards (AIBAs) with its Cerveza Crisp Lager, defeating major commercial rivals in Australia’s most competitive beer category.
The family-run operation, best known for its hop-heavy ales, has now claimed back-to-back lager trophies after winning Best Pilsner in 2024. The secret to their success? A unique German yeast strain discovered by co-founder and head brewer Nat Reeves during extended family visits to Germany.
“I was convinced we could make the best lager in Australia with that yeast,” Nat said. “Our Cerveza Crisp Lager is light, refreshing and brewed to be easy-drinking, but it’s layered with nuance. I’m proud we’ve made something that everyday drinkers can enjoy, and brewers will respect.”
The win marks a significant milestone for the Dandenong South-based brewery, which launched over a decade ago with intensely hopped IPAs.
“We’re still best known for hoppy ales like KAIJU! KRUSH! Tropical Pale but lager has been Nat’s quiet passion for years,” said co-founder Callum Reeves. “Winning this trophy proves we can deliver just as much precision as we do boldness.”
With more than 2,300 entries from 22 countries, the AIBA victory against Australia’s biggest beer brands carries special weight.
“It’s a huge honour to be recognised in a category filled with some of Australia’s most iconic beers,” Callum added.
Currently available at Dan Murphy’s, BWS and independent bottle shops, the team hopes the accolade will expand distribution for Cerveza Crisp Lager. After starting with “ludicrously-hopped” creations, KAIJU! continues proving independent brewers can lead – not just compete – in Australia’s beer landscape.
Where to buy: Selected Dan Murphy’s, BWS, independent bottle shops and kaijubeer.com.au
