There are dozens of craft breweries scattered across Canada, each with their own quirks and recipes. Some adore unorthodox flavour combinations in their beer, while others are all about classics done right. Whichever craft brewery you visit, you’re in for a treat. Let’s say you’re looking for recommendations, though. In that case, we’re happy to lend a hand.
For your consideration, here are six craft breweries that’ll knock the socks off casual visitors, and beer enthusiasts alike.
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R & B Brewing Company – Vancouver, BC
Vancouver’s Brewery Creek area is home to a slew of craft breweries. When it comes to saying power, however, R & B Brewing Company is second to none. Since opening in 1997, they’ve never stopped making new brews, and remain dedicated to using local ingredients. A guided tour is your ticket to witnessing their process, as well as getting a sneak peak at their latest concoction. Or, just visit the on-site Ale and Pizza house to savour their creations alongside top notch food.
Blackburn Brewhouse – Niagara Falls, ON
The folks behind Blackburn Brewhouse envisioned a spot for local gatherings. To that end, they had their state-of-the-art facility built from the ground up. Make the trek to Blackburn Parkway, and you’ll be met with more than a tap room and bottle shop; there’s also a patio, outdoor dog park, and acres of untouched greenery to enjoy. Not to mention a wide selection of exciting brews, from zesty pale ales to dark, chocolatey lagers.
Tool Shed Brewing Company – Calgary, AB
Tool Shed began as two IT guys brewing in their backyard, hence the name. Today, they’re celebrated as the crown jewel of Calgary’s Brewmuda Triangle. Head to their tasting room to find out why, or drink in the brewery’s rustic decor, complete with pinball machines and a small stage. While it’s cordoned off from direct access, you can observe the brewery at work from the adjoining open space. Alternatively, you can swing by on Saturdays, and get a tour for the low price of fifteen dollars.
Big Spruce Brewery – Cape Breton, NS
Once upon a time, Big Spruce was nothing but a happy couple and a hundred acres of farmland. Since then, the site has blossomed into a top-quality brewery. Big Spruce prides itself on being ingredient-oriented; their brews are made with the finest organic hops and grain. The result of this commitment to quality? Wonderful beer with colorful names, such as their Kitchen Party Pale Ale and Cereal Killer Oatmeal Stout. Who could ask for more?
Clifford Brewing Company – Hamilton, ON
We don’t need to sing the praises of Clifford Brewing Company; their accolades speak for themselves. Take their Clifford Porter, which earned four Gold medals and two Silver at the Ontario Brewing Awards, distinguishing it as one of the best brews in Ontario. To boot, they were named Canadian Brewery of the Year in 2019. Still not convinced? Then head to Hamilton, and let their beloved beers do the talking
Analog Brewing Company – Edmonton, AB
Nothing pairs better with a cold brew than something to do. At Analog Brewing Company, you can pick your poison: playing cards, board games, arcade classics, even Dungeons and Dragons. The retro vibe—complete with beer taps made from old Nintendo controllers—is the cherry on top of this geeky brewery. If you’re looking to indulge your nerdy side, or just want to sample some stellar craft, this is the place for you.
Feature Image: Louis Hansel, Unsplash
