“We want to pay proper homage to the ten years of people that have come and made this their home.”

When Wildflower co-founder and visionary Topher Boehm announced he was to close the Marrickville venue the brewers and blenders had called home for a decade, it didn’t just send ripples through the beer world – the story was picked up by mainstream media too.

Perhaps that’s only to be expected: in terms of impact made per litre of beer sold, there can be few operations anywhere on the planet that would come close to this magical corner of the Australian beer world.

That impact can be measured by the quality and sheer delightfulness of their many releases, the transformative nature of their Marrickville base, the team’s advocacy for other producers and growers, as well as for better ways of producing and growing, and in the generous manner in which they would share their experiences, knowledge and learnings.

As soon as we got word Wildflower was to close at the end of May – at least for now, and in its current form – there was no question we’d invite him back onto the show. So grab a glass – or bottle – of your favourite mixed-culture beer and settle in as Topher tells us what led him here, how he thinks Wildflower might evolve, and shares stories and reflections from the past decade-plus.

It’s our longest episode to date – which won’t surprise anyone who knows our guest – but we’re sure you won’t be calling stumps early.

Before we get to Topher, James and Will discuss the impending opening of a venue by an operation with similarities to Wildflower, the ongoing rise of non-alc beers, the arrival in the Crafty directory of Melbourne bars Rose Island and mates., plus the opening of entries for the 2026 Australian International Beer Awards, and the latest events and giveaways for our Crafty Cabal beer club members.

Please like, subscribe and tell your beer-loving mates if you enjoy the show too!

• 16:18 – Topher Boehm Part 1
• 54:04 – The High Country Hop 2026 Preview 1
• 59:31 – Topher Boehm Part 2

To find out more about featuring on The Crafty Pint Podcast or otherwise partnering with The Crafty Pint, contact [email protected].