In this episode, we sit down with Velten Tiemann, founder and brewer of Wild Dog Brewery, Zambia's leading independent craft brewery. Based in Lusaka, Velten shares his fascinating journey from working as a winemaker in Germany and Australia to returning to his native Zambia to start a brewery against the odds. Wild Dog has carved out a unique space in a market dominated by macro-breweries, focusing on quality, locally-inspired brews that reflect Zambia's rich heritage.
Velten discusses the significant challenges Wild Dog faces, including the high excise taxes that stifle small breweries, the difficulty of sourcing ingredients, and the logistical hurdles of distributing craft beer in a country where beer culture is still developing. Despite these obstacles, Wild Dog has become a beloved brand among locals who appreciate its commitment to craft and quality.
We delve into Wild Dog's brewing philosophy, which prioritizes traditional styles over trends like IPAs, and how Velten has adapted to the local market by creating beers that offer more flavor and depth than the standard lagers. Velten also shares his hopes for the future, including potential changes in taxation that could open the door for more microbreweries in Zambia, and his plans to diversify with ready-to-drink cocktails and a Zambian rum made from local fruits.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the challenges of craft brewing in emerging markets, the intersection of culture and beer, and the resilience needed to create a successful brewery in a tough environment. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this episode!