Modus Brewing has relaunched Ciao Bella – a crisp Italian pilsner brewed as a “love letter to the spring season” with elegance and drinkability in mind.
Working closely with the Modus team, celebrated Australian artist Benny Ross – known for his dreamy, hand-drawn aesthetic – brings this year’s edition to life in a new can format, designed to reflect sun-drenched days in the Italian countryside.
Described as floral, zesty, and effortlessly refined, Ciao Bella pays homage to the Italian pilsner tradition with malt character, noble hop aroma, and a softly bitter, dry finish.
The style was originally released in spring 2024 and it quickly became a taproom favourite, with Modus Founder Jaz Wearin saying the team was inspired to bring it back.
“People loved it. The clean, crisp profile, the floral aroma, the drinkability. The Italian pilsner style is all about balance and elegance. It’s not trying to be loud or hazy or heavy. It’s refined, refreshing, and quietly confident.
“That really resonated with our team, and clearly with our customers too. Bringing it back this year in cans too, with artwork by Benny Ross, felt like the natural next step,” she said.
Describing the creative collaboration between Modus and Ross, Wearin said concepts were bounced around until Ross created “a beautiful collision of beer and art.”
“Working with Benny was great – he is a true artist in every sense. He completely understood the vibe we were chasing: Italian countryside meets Aussie Spring. We gave him a loose brief around sunshine, simplicity… and a Vespa… and he brought back this whimsical, hand-drawn scene that feels warm, transportive, and just a little cheeky.”
Wearin also emphasised the value of storytelling through can design – not only for Ciao Bella but all Modus beers.
“We treat every can like a mini canvas. It should reflect not just what’s inside, but why we made it. Our design isn’t just about looking good on the shelf (though that helps), it’s about evoking a feeling, a moment, a place.
She added: “With Ciao Bella, the art tells you everything: the sun, the breeze, the easy-going joy of spring. It’s an invitation to slow down, connect, and enjoy the good stuff – and that’s what Modus is all about.”
Celebrating the relaunch
Modus Brewing is celebrating the relaunch of Ciao Bella at their Newcastle and Sydney venues on Thursday 11 September and Friday 12 September respectively with two unique events.
“We really wanted to launch Ciao Bella in a way that reflected the creativity and joy behind the beer. Both events are about celebrating the culture around beer – art, music, film, community – not just what’s in the can,” said Wearin.
Modus Merewether is hosting an artist’s night featuring works from more than six local creatives.
“These are creatives doing bold and brilliant things in our community, and we’re turning the venue into a laid-back gallery space for one night only. Expect good tunes, cold Ciao Bellastraight from the taps, and a chance to discover some seriously talented artists while soaking up the atmosphere,” she said.
Meanwhile Modus Mona Vale will be screening the classic film, The Italian Job on Friday.
“We’ll be showing the original of course. It’s a fun nod to the beer’s Euro influence and a great excuse to kick back with a pint, some wings, and your mates.”
Wearin added that Ciao Bella meets consumers appetite the European summer and easy-drinking beers.
“There’s no denying the Euro summer fever has hit hard. For those lucky enough to get over to that side of the pond this year, Ciao Bella keeps the vibes going. For the rest of us, this is your passport in a can. There’s a growing appetite for beers that are sessionable without being boring and the Italian pilsner hits that sweet spot too.”
