While Vancouver takes centre stage as a host city, communities across the province are joining the excitement with fan zones, watch parties, beer gardens, live entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to cheer alongside fellow fans.

So, whether you’re looking for a lively place to catch a match, gather with friends, or soak up the atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of ways to join the celebration this summer in our Match Day Pints Guide. We’ve created this list of the best fan zones, watch parties, and community events happening around British Columbia. Click on any participating brewery below for event details, or find all of these events in the BC Ale Trail app. Don’t have it yet? Download it today and take BC’s craft beer scene with you.

Cheers to a summer of great matches, great beer, and memorable moments!

Metro Vancouver & Fraser Valley

Vancouver

FIFA Fan Festival

The official FIFA Fan Festival at Hastings Park will be BC’s largest tournament celebration, featuring giant screens, live entertainment, food vendors, cultural programming, and interactive fan experiences throughout the tournament.

Granville Island

One of Vancouver’s most iconic destinations is getting into the soccer spirit with free public match screenings throughout the tournament. Between games, explore the Public Market, waterfront patios, and vibrant craft beverage scene.

R&B Brewing

Watch matches on a massive 140-inch screen while enjoying special Team Canada food and beer pairings.

Parallel 49 Brewing

One of Vancouver’s largest breweries has transformed its 250-seat patio and event space into an outdoor viewing area for all of the games this June and July, featuring a giant outdoor screen, DJs, food, and more.

Luppolo Brewing Company

Showing select matches in the tasting room. Table reservations are highly encouraged.

Steamworks Brewing Co.

Serving as Vancouver’s unofficial Swiss headquarters, welcoming fans of all nations throughout the tournament.

Steamworks Mount Pleasant Kitchen & Taphouse

Showing matches in the taphouse throughout the tournament

Strathcona Beer Co.

Offering watch parties, snacks, and match-day drink specials.

Container Brewing

Enjoy patio parties for every game, all tournament long.

East Vancouver Brewing Company

Enjoy a pint and good food while they show matches all tournament long. Table reservations encouraged.

Strange Fellows Brewing

Watch the world’s best teams compete all tournament long while enjoying Strange Fellows’ award-winning beers.

Main Street Brewing

Enjoy all the Team Canada matches along with select tournament games. Open early for select games.

Howe Sound Brewing

Showing every match in the brewery throughout the tournament and offering $12 double Caesars and $20 jugs of Howe Sound Lager during the games. Enjoy a $20 burger and beer special from Monday to Friday. Open 30 minutes before early games.

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North Vancouver

Uber Eats Canada Soccer House

The Shipyards will become home to Uber Eats Canada Soccer House, a waterfront gathering place featuring match screenings, special events, entertainment, food, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate Canada’s biggest soccer summer yet.

Strathcona North

Showing every match with early openings for select morning games, true 20oz pours, and daily happy hour specials.

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Surrey

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Three free Soccer Fan Zones at Surrey Civic Plaza, Cloverdale Agriplex, and South Surrey Athletic Park will feature giant screens, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and licensed beer gardens.

Way Back Brew Co.

Showing matches all month long, making it easy to settle in with a locally crafted pint and soak up the match-day excitement.

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New Westminster

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

New Westminster is Fired Up for soccer with public watch parties, cultural programming, community events, and activities taking place throughout the tournament.

Howe Sound Taphouse & Kitchen

Showing every match in the brewery throughout the tournament and offering a special $8.50 breakfast menu and $12 double Caesars, as well as a $20 burger and beer special every day. Open 30 minutes before early games.

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Delta

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Watch matches from Ladner’s Chisholm Street Wharf or the North Delta Recreation Centre while enjoying community programming and activities.

Four Winds Brewing Co.

Showing every match in the taproom.

Four Winds Beach House & Brewery

Catch every match on large projectors and TVs overlooking Boundary Bay.

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Coquitlam

Public Watch Parties

Public match viewings will rotate between several outdoor locations, creating neighbourhood gathering spaces for fans throughout the tournament.

Mariner Brewing

Showing every tournament match on the big screen with full sound, plus daily soccer-themed T-shirt giveaways and Team Canada jersey raffles on select match days.

Side Quest Brewing Co.

Showing all matches (that start between 12-7 pm) with the sound on. No cost to come, happy hour from 12-6 pm with $5 pints.

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Port Moody

Train Wreck Brewing

Join fellow fans for match screenings throughout the tournament.

Yellow Dog Brewing

Showing all matches throughout the tournament and hosting special giveaways during every Canada match. Grab a pint and join fellow supporters as Canada takes on the world’s best.

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Port Coquitlam

Taylight Brewing

Extended hours, international match celebrations, and tournament-themed food and beer specials throughout the tournament.

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Langley

Camp Beer Co.

A massive outdoor watch party experience featuring every match, special soccer mug club perks, custom cask beers, food features, and a final match celebration.

Dead Frog Brewery

Catch all the action throughout the tournament while enjoying a lineup of locally crafted beers.

Five Roads Brewing

Watch Vancouver-hosted matches while enjoying specials on their soccer-themed Mexican lager. Team Canada goals unlock $5 beers.

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Chilliwack

Sidekick Brewing

Showing every match in the taproom, with $15 60oz pitchers during Team Canada games.

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Pitt Meadows

Foamers’ Folly Brewing

Showing every single match LIVE. Grab a $5 pint and enjoy the festivities!

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Squamish

Howe Sound Brewing

Showing every match in the brewery throughout the tournament and offering a special breakfast menu and $12 double Caesars, as well as a $20 burger and beer special from Monday to Friday. Open 30 minutes before early games.

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Pemberton

Bridge Brewing

Catch every match on multiple screens, full sound, delicious handcrafted eats, and a pint of your favourite craft beer in hand.

Sunshine Coast

Gibsons & Sechelt

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Both Gibsons and Sechelt have received provincial funding to support free celebrations. Keep an eye on local event listings for details on community viewing parties and special programming throughout the tournament

Persephone Brewing Company

Join fellow fans for watch parties and receive 10% off on match days when you mention “Match Days.”

The Spare Room at The Alley

Pair all the action with Persephone pints and a full pub menu featuring burgers, wings, and more.

Vancouver Island

Victoria

Public Watch Parties and Community Events 

Downtown Victoria is embracing the tournament with outdoor watch parties, street activations, and community events hosted in partnership with local businesses throughout the city.

Driftwood Brewing

Enjoy all the games on their new 75″ TV, starting at 12:00pm daily. Select matches shown with sound.

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Langford

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Langford’s cultural district will come alive with public match screenings, local vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and a licensed beverage garden. It’s an ideal stop for soccer fans travelling through southern Vancouver Island.

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Comox Valley

Public Watch Party

Celebrate Canada’s opening match with a community gathering featuring live music, cultural performances, and a shared viewing experience in one of Vancouver Island’s most scenic regions.

Interior BC

Kamloops

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

Riverside Park will serve as Kamloops’ soccer headquarters, with matches broadcast on a large outdoor screen at the Rotary Bandshell. Team Canada games and the tournament final will feature enhanced programming, including food trucks, family activities, live entertainment, and a beer garden.

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Kelowna

Kelowna Beer Institute

Transforming into “England House” for every England match, complete with a dedicated viewing room, prizes, food specials, and a pint included with admission.

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Penticton

Yellow Dog Brewing

Catch Canada’s matches with fellow fans while enjoying locally crafted beer and the vibrant atmosphere of Penticton’s brewery district.

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Salmon Arm

Public Watch Parties

Salmon Arm is planning a series of free community watch parties, giving visitors another reason to spend time in the Shuswap region during the tournament.

Ricochet Brewing & Taphouse

Join the After the Pitch celebrations with an expanded street-side patio, food specials, outdoor games, and 36 BC craft beverage taps.

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Cranbrook

Public Watch Parties and Community Events

The East Kootenays will join the celebration with public viewing opportunities and soccer-themed community events throughout the tournament.

Northern BC

Prince George

Public Watch Party

Prince George will host a community watch party for the soccer final, bringing fans together to celebrate the culmination of the world’s biggest sporting event.

Join the Celebration

One of the best things about the beautiful game is how it brings people together. This summer, communities across BC are creating spaces where fans can gather, cheer on their favourite teams, and be part of the excitement.

Whether you’re watching from a waterfront fan zone, a community watch party, or your local brewery patio, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the soccer spirit. And while the tournament may be a global event, it’s also a great opportunity to celebrate local. BC’s craft breweries are producing world-class beer in communities across the province, and many are opening their doors for match-day festivities.

So pull on your lucky jersey, gather your crew, and raise a locally crafted pint to a summer of great beer, unforgettable moments, and world-class soccer.

For further resources, visit Super, Natural BC.

The post Match Day Pints: Where to Celebrate the Beautiful Game in BC appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

When winter blankets Prince George in snow, this northern British Columbia gem transforms into a frosty haven of seasonal activities and cozy retreats. From pristine Nordic ski trails that wind through frosted forests to challenging mountain slopes blanketed in legendary powder, the region’s winter playground beckons thrill-seekers of all levels. Or, if cold isn’t your thing, explore some unique and fun indoor options. After conquering the trails or carving through fresh snow, adventurers can retreat to the city’s burgeoning craft brewery scene, where locally-crafted beers and spirits provide the perfect way to warm up and swap stories from the day’s exploits. This unique combination of world-class outdoor recreation and exceptional craft beverage culture makes Prince George a standout winter destination in northern British Columbia.

Here are six must-try experiences to make the most of your winter visit.

Hit the Slopes at Powder King Mountain
For those willing to venture a bit further, Powder King Mountain Resort is a two-hour drive from Prince George. Known for its incredible powder conditions, it’s a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for an unforgettable day on the mountain.

Glide Through Caledonia Nordic Ski Club
Prince George is home to one of Canada’s premier destinations for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Caledonia Nordic Ski Club boasts an extensive trail network that offers options for both beginners and pros, all while showcasing the stunning northern landscape.

Scale New Heights at OVERhang
For a unique indoor activity, head to OVERhang for some climbing fun. This modern climbing facility welcomes climbers of all skill levels, making it a must-do activity for couples, families, or solo adventurers.

Skate Under the Sky at the Oval
The Prince George Outdoor Ice Oval offers a magical winter skating experience. This beautifully maintained rink provides a picturesque setting for skaters of all skill levels, whether you’re gliding for fun or honing your technique under the crisp northern sky.

Cheer on the Cougars!
Feel the energy of a live hockey game by catching the Prince George Cougars in action. Join local fans cheering on the home team while experiencing a quintessential Canadian winter experience.

Sip and Savour Local Craft Beverages
After a day of exploring, warm up with Prince George’s thriving craft beverage scene.

• Trench Brewing & Distilling: Cozy up with their delicious food menu, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• CrossRoads Tap & Kitchen: Pouring all the same CrossRoads beers you know and love, but with a new, mouthwatering food menu.
• Deadfall Brewing Company: Discover award-winning beers, including the 2023 Canada Beer Cup winner!  Enjoy live music, games, and more in this relaxed setting.

From thrilling outdoor adventures to savouring the flavours of its vibrant craft scene, Prince George delivers endless opportunities to make the most of winter. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, this northern BC gem promises to create unforgettable memories for everyone.

The post Discover Prince George: Your Ultimate Winter Destination appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

The Kiwanis AleFest is Prince George’s premier and original craft beer tasting festival that showcases many amazing independent BC craft breweries, including three from Prince George. The 2024 edition included the addition of two craft cideries and one craft kombucha brewery. This is an event that people in Prince George look forward to each winter. The silent auction is a great way to contribute to Kiwanis’ charitable fundraising goals, which benefit local children. I love that many local businesses are promoted and that the festival increases awareness of independent BC craft breweries, local Prince George restaurants, and the many sponsors. I also love that Kiwanis promotes and ensures the responsible consumption of alcohol and ensures a diverse, inclusive, equitable, respectable, and safe environment. 

This year was the eighth annual Kiwanis AleFest, which was held at the Two Rivers Gallery in Prince George, BC. There were three tasting sessions held on Friday night, Saturday afternoon, and Saturday night. Each session was three hours long and the average attendance per session was around 360 people. Kiwanis donates $5,000 annually to the Ronald McDonald House, $15,000 annually to the Two Rivers Gallery, and they have also raised over $230,000 for children’s charities over the past number of years. This year was no different with a part of the event proceeds being used to support Northern BC children through the Ronald McDonald House of BC. And to know this absolutely warms my heart. 

The 2024 Kiwanis AleFest was a very special and memorable experience. As a person who loves hiking and the outdoors, what made me feel warm was the detailed wooden hand-crafted signposts that directed you to the multiple craft breweries, cideries, kombucha breweries, and the many restaurants in attendance. It was like being on a mini-BC Ale Trail within a wonderful venue with warm ambience. I could attribute this to the inviting, helpful, and professional volunteers, the lighting, the music, the photo booths, the silent auction area, and the overall feeling by just being present in this environment itself. Plus, it made me very happy to see the event goers enjoy their experience. Another thing that I loved was being able to choose one out of seven individual tasting glasses that were originally released and uniquely designed for past Kiwanis AleFest events. 

The breweries in attendance included Barkerville Brewing from Quesnel, Bulkley Valley Brewery from Smithers, Cask & Cleaver from 100 Mile House, CrossRoads Brewing & Distillery from Prince George, Deadfall Brewing from Prince George (winner of the 2023 Canada Beer Cup for their Basal Brown Ale), Fox Mountain Brewing from Williams Lake, Lillooet Brewing, Mighty Peace Brewing from Fort St. John, Post & Row Brewing from Dawson Creek, Sherwood Mountain Brewhouse from Terrace, Smithers Brewing, Three Ranges Brewing from Valemount, Trench Brewing & Distilling from Prince George, Two Peaks Brewing from Kitimat, Ursa Minor Brewing from Ootsa Lake (located South of Burns Lake), and Wheelhouse Brewing from Prince Rupert. 

My favourite beers included the Three Bears Belgian Style Tripel from Ursa Minor Brewing, Apple Pie Sour and Black Forest Stout both from Cask & Cleaver, Skippity Paps NE Style Hazy IPA from Three Ranges Brewing, Post Voyage ESB from Post & Row Brewing, Vienna Lager from Lillooet Brewing, Double Rainbow Hazy IPA from Fox Mountain, Blueberry Mojito Tart Ale from Smithers Brewing, and Wake Up Jake Coffee Ale from Barkerville Brewing. Trench Brewing’s Peach Iced Tea was a popular item too. 

In a very cool twist on the usual “collaboration beer,” the three PG breweries brewed a blonde base ale and then split it into three tanks with each brewery getting a tank to make it their own. Deadfall Brewing made a Strawberry Basil Blonde Ale, Trench Brewing did a Honey Pineapple Blonde Ale, and CrossRoads made a Vanilla Espresso Blonde Ale. There was a little friendly competition going on with these three breweries since event attendees were able to vote on which of the three was their favourite.  

I also loved that Bulkley River Booch (craft kombucha) from Smithers, and the two Prince George cideries, Slaughterhouse Craft and Cold Front Cider, were also in attendance. They absolutely had some great offerings. What stood out for me was the PG Select from Cold Front Cider and the Cyser from Slaughterhouse Craft. I also really like the apple spiced kombucha from Bulkley River Booch. 

The food which was provided by many local restaurants in attendance was excellent as well. Nancy O’s /Betulla Burning had delicious tacos that included Mexican-style pulled pork with tequila BBQ sauce; Trench Brewing had beef brisket and mushroom tacos; Baller Food had delicious meatball and cheese sliders; The Black Clover had beef stew; and CrossRoads had perogies and sausage on a stick and veggies on a stick. 

Another important addition was free the Safe Ride Home Shuttle Bus provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters PG. 

I had the opportunity to speak to some of the craft brewery owners, which was special too. What I truly enjoyed was their excellent knowledge of craft beer and their commitment towards the guest experience at their respective craft breweries. 

Overall, the 2024 edition of Kiwanis AleFest was memorable for many amazing reasons: the amazing volunteers, the charitable cause, ambience, music, setting, and the food and beverage offerings from the wonderful independent craft breweries, cideries, the kombucha brewery, and the awesome restaurants. 

Thank you, Kiwanis Prince George, for hosting this amazing event and making it an amazing experience. The 2024 Kiwanis AleFest was one of the best. Cheers!

The post The 2024 Kiwanis AleFest Experience appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

August in BC is beautiful. With pandemic restrictions declining and air travel nightmares all over the news, my family was looking for a late summer holiday that wouldn’t break the bank and didn’t require a plane. A road trip to regions unknown here in our own province seemed the perfect option.

Mountainview Brewing – Hope 

My husband’s Tetris-level packing skills were needed to get all our gear into our car with enough room to spare for our two kids and our 100-pound dog, Cooper. Our first day of driving took us from our home in south Surrey down Highway 1 through Hope and into the Fraser Canyon, then up past 100 Mile House until we reached our first night’s accommodation. Mountainview Brewing in Hope was new to us, so it became our first brewery stop.

Adam and Danielle Keil opened Hope’s first craft brewery during the first year of the pandemic–not an easy task. The small town of Hope, tucked in under the mountains’ shadows and bordering the Fraser River, is a rest stop for thousands of travellers each year, as well as a destination for outdoors enthusiasts. A craft brewery in town was past due. Located along Old Hope Princeton Way, just a quick detour off the highway, Mountainview Brewing is in an ideal location as well.

As we enjoyed our flights, a pool table provided entertainment for our 12- and 14-year old after they finished their kombucha (I always like to see quality non-alcoholic options in a brewery). I was intrigued by the light and tasty Dragon’s Back Caribbean stout, a summer beer named after the local Dragon’s Back hiking trail, but my favourites were the Green Hearts Young IPA and the Lost in the Woods Spruce Tip Pale Ale–both representative of this mountainous region.

Mountainview Brewing can be found on the Fraser Valley Ale Trail.

Fox Mountain Brewing – Williams Lake

There was a long stretch of beautiful landscape — hills, canyons, rivers–between Hope and our next brewery. By the time we arrived in Williams Lake, we were ready for some refreshments at Fox Mountain Brewing Co. Owner and head brewer Dave Reedman joined us on their patio for a chat about being the first brewery owner in the region.

Reedman recounted his path to brewery ownership and how his love of homebrewing spurred a desire to learn more. He eventually completed formal training at Brewlab in England before returning to Williams Lake, where he knew that the popular annual beer festival had fertilized a rapidly growing craft beer community. When Fox Mountain opened its doors in 2020, Reedman had envisioned a quiet, small event. Instead, he laughed, “We were slammed! There were people lined up down the front of the building.” 

Reedman took me through his brewhouse where his 6-tank system was housed and his young son was cleaning bottles for a bit of extra money. He values all the help he can get; it’s just Reedman and one assistant running the brewing side, although he has a great front of house staff and kitchen. We chatted about the beers that were the most popular locally: the pilsner and their Hillbilly Blond–both light and refreshing traditional styles that resonate with the city’s rural character.  

My husband and I ended up trying all the beers available–not a difficult task after a long day of travelling. My favourites were the Godspeed IPA and the Bluebird Saison. I’m a sucker for a good saison and this one delighted — full-bodied with coriander and citrus notes. Their popular Pump Track Hazy IPA was also excellent, with lots of mango and pineapple flavours.

Unfortunately, most southern residents of BC will have to travel if they want to sample some of Fox Mountain’s beers. While they do distribute as far south as Kamloops, the tasting room and local clientele take priority over distribution. “Right now we’re in ‘keep up’ mode!” says Reedman. Being popular is a good problem to have, but it does end up resulting in a lot of work for the small team at Fox Mountain. 

Fox Mountain Brewing can be found on the Northeast BC Ale Trail.

Deadfall Brewing – Prince George

The next day, we made our way up past Quesnel (stopping at Barkerville and Barkerville Brewing) to Deadfall Brewing, the newest craft brewery in Prince George. 

A friendly dog was guarding the entrance when I arrived since canine friends are welcome in the tasting room. In fact, everyone is welcome. When co-owner Brandon Baerwald, his wife Erin, and their two friends established Deadfall, inclusivity was a number one priority.  And you see this inclusivity in things like the accessibility of the tasting room itself and the free hygiene products in the bathrooms. 

The brewery was cool in the heat of the day, with beautiful images of flora and fauna on the walls. At the bar, the forest-green backsplash behind the handmade driftwood tap handles made me think of BC’s woodlands — a cherished feature of Prince George, where hiking, hunting, and forestry are economic drivers.

The Baerwalds are both science professors at UNBC, so it’s unsurprising that they found inspiration in the vibrant natural environment of Prince George. Nature’s ability to create life from death became a theme of the brewery. Even beer’s key ingredient — yeast — dies and comes back to life. This concept became the brewery’s theme.

“It’s beauty, but it’s dark,” says Brandon.

Graphic designer Skyler Punnett used this concept to design the brewery’s logo. The death’s hand reaching holding the stem of a large mushroom represents nature’s constant movement between death and life.

While Baerwald doesn’t possess a brewing certification, he did have plenty of professional brewing experience before opening Deadfall. He’s currently the only brewer, as well as the packager, deliverer, and front of house guy, and he likes it that way.

“Quality control!” he told me.

His perfectionism means that the beer is indeed high quality, but he admits he has to work hard to ensure that. Deadfall’s motto is “Brew no wrong,” and Baerwald follows his own advice. The tap list on that day included a Kölsch, a brown ale, a west coast IPA, a session ale, and a watermelon gose, and I thoroughly enjoyed each one. Baerwald’s choice to offer a Kölsch rather than a Pilsner or other light lager was unusual, but customers are receptive — the Kölsch is one of his top sellers. The watermelon gose, he said with a shrug, was almost out and he didn’t think he’d make it again. But half an hour later, I watched a customer buy two flats of it. It seems the Baerwalds may have to brew more beer than they bargained for — not a bad problem to have for a new brewery!

Deadfall Brewing can be found on the Northwest BC Ale Trail.

Ursa Minor Brewing — Burns Lake

The destination for our BC journey was Ursa Minor Brewing, located on Little Bear Ranch on the shores of Ootsa Lake. After a three-hour drive west from Prince George, a 15-minute ferry ride, and another hour of driving through dirt roads with no cell reception (we had to keep an eye out for “Brewery” signs along the road), we eventually saw the big red sign welcoming us to Ursa Minor Brewing.

We weren’t just there to visit the brewery though. Ursa Minor is part of Little Bear Ranch, a large property first purchased in the 1950s by the parents of Nathan Nicholas, who currently owns and runs the ranch with his wife Gwyn. His mother, Leona, still lives there in her own house and has some great stories that shouldn’t be missed if you visit. Over the years, the family has built barns, fields, houses, and cabins — and one of those cabins is now available as a holiday rental for those who need a break from traffic, noise, and all internet contact. The little red cabin is located maybe 100 feet from the lakeshore and is just a minute’s walk to Nathan and Gwyn’s log home and the brewery. Although it was built in the 1960s, the cabin’s plumbing and electricity have been updated and a solar power system now supplies hot water. 

But the cabin doesn’t feel modern; it’s like you’ve stepped back in time into the warm embrace of your grandparents’ home.

Real 1960s artefacts add detail to the cabin’s interior, from a tiny 1960s bottle of Pine-Sol to an old jar of Pond’s Cold Cream to the teal vintage refrigerator. Two cosy beds in the front sunroom area facing the lake plus a pull-out bed in the living room allowed the four of us to sleep very comfortably. 

Our two days and three nights on the ranch were spent swimming, paddling around in our inflatable dinghy and kayak, fishing from the shore in front of our cabin (with great success!), and exploring the property. We enjoyed giving the friendly pig, Wilson, spent grain snacks (follow him on Instagram @willythebrewpig), and the horses, donkeys, and farm dogs received many pets each time we passed them. Evenings were spent sitting outside the cabin by our bonfire and staring up at an astoundingly clear night sky. The silence was deep, and, to my suburban children who are used to constant noise, even unnerving. It is truly a space for contemplation. 

Ursa Minor Brewing was, of course, a central element of our stay, and we returned multiple times, trekking through the grass alongside the lake from our cabin to reach the little tasting room. Nathan doesn’t grow his own hops or barley, but he sources as many ingredients from his land as he can, like rhubarb, haskap berries, and juniper. His training as a chef is revealed in some of his creative brewing choices, as well as the weekly dinner he and Gwyn serve up to guests.

Some of my favourite brews at Ursa Minor were the Siberian Express Haskap Saison, the Ootsa Pogo Double IPA, and the Pigs Eye Rye Ale. Before we left, Nathan added one more beer to the list, which I thoroughly enjoyed: a soured version of a double IPA, a beer that was initially the product of yeast going off track, but which became popular with customers. And non-drinkers aren’t left out; homemade spruce tip iced tea and rhubarb soda were two of the non-alcoholic offerings available that weekend, and both were delicious — our kids preferred them to pop which is high praise!

Nathan and Gwyn are welcoming hosts who have cultivated a sustainable, simple, and family-oriented way of life on their property. We felt like family when we arrived, and we truly enjoyed our conversations with them as we learned about the history of the ranch. It was also a special time for the four of us as a family. Detached from our phones, laptops, school, and work, we could reconnect over good drinks and good food (including our fresh-caught trout from the lake). 

Ursa Minor Brewing can be found on the Northwest BC Ale Trail.

Lillooet Brewing – Lillooet

We regretted having to leave Little Bear Ranch on our third day, but we felt refreshed as we began our journey home back through Prince George and then south. While we couldn’t visit Prince George’s other craft breweries, Trench Brewing & Distilling and CrossRoads Brewing & Distillery, due to a staff event being held that day, we did have a tasty pint of the 1000 Peaks Blood Orange Witbier from Trench and the Fast Lane IPA from Crossroads while enjoying pizza at Betulla Burning. 

Our travels eventually took us down past Hat Creek Ranch (formerly owned by one of Vancouver’s first brewery owners, Charles Doering) through the Duffy Lake road and finally into the Fraser Canyon and to Lillooet. Here, we took a break to get a sneak peek at the soon-to-be-opened Lillooet Brewing Co, which is perched on a hill with a stunning view of the Fraser River below. 

Lillooet Brewing is the brainchild of Sam Quinlan, founder of HOOH Hops, and Sacha Bordas, brewer and builder. They finalized their purchase of the property — previously a local feed store — in March 2020, just before the pandemic crashed into their plans. However, over the past two years, they’ve worked consistently to establish their brewery’s brand, its values, and its core lineup of beers, so they now feel well positioned for a strong opening in early fall 2022.

Lillooet Brewing’s priorities are clear: environmental sustainability, local ingredients, and wildlife conservation. The brewery recycles water and does its own canning, and its recipes use as much locally produced hops and barley as possible. Both Quinlan and Bordas are outdoorsmen and enthusiastic about how the rural nature of Lillooet brings so many opportunities for encountering wildlife. Their beers reflect this enthusiasm, with each one named after a local species. The first two beers are the Western Screech Owl Hazy Pale Ale and the Mule Deer Lager.

Using a grant from Northern Development, the brewery partnered with the Lillooet Naturalist Society in a project called Lillooet Wild that provides educational resources on various local species, resources that will be linked to QR codes on the beer labels. Additionally, the tasting room will feature images of local wildlife by local artists and photographers, and more partnerships with other wildlife groups are in the works.

“I think of this [the brewery] like a National Park headquarters,” laughed Quinlan. 

The 12-tap tasting room will be accompanied by an outdoor full-service patio area and a picnic area licensed for liquor. So if you have dogs or kids that need some room, you can buy a six-pack from the tasting room and walk over to the picnic spot, where native plant species accompany the beautiful view of the river. More plans are in the works for Lillooet Brewing, such as producing certified organic beers and working with local barley farmers, but they’re well on their way to become one of Lillooet’s popular spots for tourists and locals alike — and of course, all animal lovers. 

Lillooet Brewing is not on the BC Ale Trail yet — but we hope to add it soon!

Returning Home

Our final quick stop was at the Beer Farmers in Pemberton, another brewery that prioritizes local and organic ingredients. Both dog- and family-friendly, and with some sheep on site and great views of the surrounding mountains, Beer Farmers is always worth a stop if you’re passing through Pemberton. It is mostly outdoors, though, so plan for the weather!

We returned to south Surrey with many new beers to add to our fridge and many more family memories. Now to plan our next BC road trip — there’s lots more to see (and drink) in this province.

The post A BC Beer Hunt: Roadtripping Up North to Ursa Minor Brewing appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

‘Ale Trails’ is a doc style mini-series looking at the intersection between mountain biking and local craft breweries, and how both work to support and enhance their community.

Join us, as we explore the wilds of Northern BC, showcasing the uniqueness of Prince George, Terrace and Smithers, and meeting the proud, passionate locals who call these tight-knit communities home.

Prince George. The largest city in Northern BC has a blossoming craft beer and mountain bike scene. Between its three breweries, Trench Brewing and Distilling, Deadfall Brewing, and CrossRoads Brewing and Distilling, and the constantly expanding Pidherny trail network, there’s enough variety to keep any seasoned rider and craft beer aficionado occupied.

Smithers, nestled in the Bulkley Valley, is driven by a passionate population. Its trail system, grown from hardcore locals in the ’90s has evolved into a modern network of sustainable all-mountain trails. Its breweries, Smithers Brewing Company and Bulkley Valley Brewing, will greet you with the warm atmosphere of the North, and flavours to keep your thirst well and truly quenched.

Terrace has a history of being a very technical location but, over recent years, has utilized grants to expand and create new, mixed ability trails that allow every ability of rider to have fun. Home to Sherwood Mountain Brewhouse, the Terrace craft beer scene brings a variety of beer styles and flavours into what has typically been a very Lager-based town.

‘Ale Trails’ is a collaboration between Mountain Biking BC and the BC Ale Trail, and produced by adventure filmmakers, Ben Haggar and Mike Gamble / Cold Salt Collective.

ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY

Members of the BC Ale Trail are committed to ensuring their beers are promoted and enjoyed responsibly, by those adults who choose to consume them, for the continued prosperity of the craft beer industry in British Columbia. No one should drink alcohol, even in moderation, before operating a motor vehicle or engaging in other activities that involve attention and skill or physical risk.

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Despite Valemount having a population of only 1000 people, Three Ranges Brewing on the Northern BC Ale Trail shines through and engages not only with local friends and neighbours, but is also a “must stop” spot for visitors to enjoy a velvety craft beer (or two).

On December 3rd, Three Ranges Brewing is celebrating their 8 year anniversary with a real ale-vent! They will announce a brand new beer, offer door prizes and will remain open beyond their regular business hours to make room for this special occasion.

A special beer to mark the occasion

This year’s anniversary brew celebrates the traditional gift of bronze! It’s styled after a traditional German Doppelbock and aged briefly on toasted French oak.

This beer pours a deep bronze with a tawny head, aromas of dark fruit, toasted bread, and fresh oak dominate, followed by flavours of additional dark fruit: prune, raisin, dark rye bread, toasted oak and vanilla.

Join Three Ranges Brewing in celebrating 8 years of craft brewing!

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Travelling in the context of COVID has an air of detachment and coldness, which was a fitting contrast to the warmth my wife and I received when we landed in Smithers. Greeted by Shawn at Frontier Truck Rentals – who identified me by “Googling someone for the first time” and Gladys Atrill of  Tourism Smithers, we immediately felt the glow of that small-town welcome. Wonderful people. Once Shawn had set me up with a brand new Ram 3500, we were ready to check into the quaint Bulkley Suites to drop off our bags.

First stop: Smithers Brewing Company

Our first stop, Smithers Brewing, was conveniently just a stone’s throw from the Bulkley Suites, a convenience that would become a major asset throughout the trip. I like to approach new breweries as I would a buffet: order a bit of everything and then key in on what I like best. As such, my wife and I ordered two flights, which sufficiently covered the spread. Midway through our first flight, owner-operator Blaine Etsby stopped by. Blaine and I had connected a few days prior based on our mutual interest in swinging flies, so it was great to meet up in person to get a bit of history on the area in which he grew up the brewery scene and most recent fishing reports.

It didn’t take long before we were deep in the heart of discussing the always animated topics of steelhead returns, hatchery fish, and other idiosyncratic nuances of the fishing world, which was equally as enjoyable as the frothy beverages Blaine recommended; Hudson Bay ISA is an absolute gem. Over the course of the trip it became increasingly apparent that Blaine was not only creating great craft beer, he was also fostering a communal convening point and, more importantly, demonstrating that a small-town brewery can have the same sort of cultural hub feel to rival cities of any size. From my perspective, Smithers Brewing is the beating heart of the Bulkley Valley. 

Approaching our dinner reservation, we reluctantly parted ways with Blaine and headed out to the Roadhouse. We’d received several recommendations to try the cocktails, so started the evening the Old Fashioned way, before launching into a three-course display of culinary excellence. The quality of the service staff and the meals they produce rivals anything you’ll find in Vancouver, but you benefit from not stepping out into a concrete metropolis once the meal wraps up, but into the shadow of Hudson Bay Mountain. 

Good eats to fuel adventures through the Bulkley Valley

Waking early to get a jump on the day, we drove some caffeinated beverages and overnight oats from Bugwood Cafe into us before driving out to Call Lake. This breezy 15-20 minute hike into the lake provided a stunning view of the surrounding area from a bit of elevation. Autumn is my favourite time of year for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the stunning palette of colours on display. The Bulkley Valley in September does not disappoint. 

Crater Lake is located just above the Hudson Bay ski hill and is a well-manicured and -marked hike up into the alpine.  At that sort of elevation in which you are largely above the trees, the views stretch for miles and, I’ll say it again, the colours in September are absolutely stunning. 

After the hike, we took a jaunt along the famous Bulkley River and a stop at the Bulkley Valley Brewery. Each location offered a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, except the BVB had an excellent selection of beverages. Ranging from salted lime lagers to NEIPAs, the views and brews did not disappoint. It was also pointed out to me, after the fact, that whilst we were there Grammy and Juno award winner Alex Cuba was sitting right behind me! Smithers was full of surprises. 

Small town, big flavour, big portions

After a quick post-hike snooze, it was off to Telly’s Grill for dinner: any restaurant that has a two-handed fly rod as the background image on their menu is alright with me. Interestingly, an option on the extensive cocktail menu was flights of a select cocktail in different flavours. I was immediately intrigued. Although I am primarily a craft beer guy, the prospect of having four different flavoured Dark n’ Stormys is tough to resist. Of the lime, mint, raspberry, and habanero I was most surprised by how good the raspberry was and that the habanero one was actually quite enjoyable. My wife and I lived in the UK for the better part of a decade, so when prime rib with Yorkshire pudding was the day’s special, I couldn’t resist. The take-home message from the meal was: small town, big flavour, big portions. 

A one-of-a-kind town

Having spent a considerable amount of time in small towns and in particular, small towns in the north, Smithers is unique in the natural resources that define it and in its capacity to bring big-city amenities to a (relatively) remote location. I was continuously impressed by the warmth and welcome extended to my wife and I on this trip both by the people we had expected to meet, such as Shawn, Gladys, and Blaine, but also by the random people we encountered on the street and at various locations throughout the trip. The formula Smithers has created is one that if I could bottle it and sell it, I’d be able to retire in the Bulkley Valley and fish every day of my life.

Teddy Cosco is an assistant professor at Simon Fraser University, a passionate outdoorsman, enthusiastic home cook, and sometimes-lucky fly fisherman. Exploring the tundra via floatplane, fishing off the coast of Alaska and camping throughout Western Canada, he grew up with the outdoors in his blood. Follow @castandiron for adventure and recipe inspiration.

The post Exploring the natural and culinary delights of Smithers, BC appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Legend says that, once you drink from the Peace River, you will always return.

If it was true 10,000 years ago for the Dane-Zaa people, then it is certainly true today for the free-spirited adventurers still drawn to its fertile northern frontier — and Fort St. John breweries.

In the northeast of British Columbia and panhandle of the western Canadian prairies, the Peace River cuts through the Rocky Mountain trench. It meanders east through gold-green hills of Fort St. John en route to Alberta and up towards the Arctic. Glacier-fed with little to filter, its waters are used by two emerging B.C. brewmasters to craft distinct flavours that reflect the region’s abundance.

Meet the Breweries of Fort St. John: Beard’s Brewing and Mighty Peace Brewing

Both of these Fort St. Johns breweries are a stone’s throw off the world-famous Alaska Highway. They’ve also sown a quickly evolving craft beer revolution there over the last four years.

For Stephen Beard, owner of Bear Brewing and a firefighter by trade, his journey to opening the city’s first brewery started with a home brewing kit his wife Amy gifted him for Christmas. Eight months later he was purchasing a third-hand brewhouse from Rossland, B.C., and serving his first pours to the public in 2017.

Mighty Peace Brewing owner Zach Mirosevic arrived a year later. He was a transplant from Kamloops where he went to school and first worked at Red Collar Brewing before moving north to help to establish Mighty Peace in 2018.

In their own ways, both took a reserved approach to introducing the concept of craft to the masses where beer from the big international breweries still reigns as king. They started with light ales, pilsners, and IPAs with significantly less hop. Now, they’re regularly releasing seasonal radlers, fruity sours and saisons, and keeping seasonal dark beers on tap year-round.

“One of the best parts is how many people from the Lower Mainland — from these large communities that have had craft beer for quite a while — fall in love with our northeast beer,” says Beard.

“We have a lot of people from Site C who will exclusively drink our beer simply because they love the flavours; they love that we have so many recipes.”

“In the north we have had to adjust in a way that lots of craft breweries haven’t. We have two pilsners, we now have three lagers, we have all these ales. We’re just trying to figure out what does our region likes to drink. The remarkable part, honestly, is that we have a lot of people who like what I consider one-offs, and want that beer made over and over again.”

“We have so many customers that are demanding that all four of our IPAs constantly get made, that all of our lagers constantly get made, and they’re excited to see what’s to come,” Beard says. “And to be honest so am I.”

Three blocks north at Mighty Peace, Mirosevic couldn’t go off the rails right off the bat, launching the brewery’s signature Peace Gold before becoming brasher with his styles as of late.

“I had to build a model where you got to draw in the crowd firs so light beers, golden ales, pilsners. Then I started our IPA off being a little less hoppy, more palatable,” Mirosevic says. “But as things have grown in the last two years, and especially during COVID, people are starting to go outside their comfort zone. That’s been a good sign. When you start seeing that running this brewery, and as someone that enjoys going outside their comfort zone, pushing the envelope out in nature, it gives me a little bit of hope. People are willing to try new things. It can open up new ideas.”

Mighty Peace just released its Super Neat saison, in time for the May long weekend, made with a blend of locally sourced indigenous haskap berries and black currants that Mirosevic says make for a nice dry, tart berry beer.

“We did a small batch last year, and scaled up. It was such a huge hit,” Mirosevic says.

“Since I’m not from here, I don’t know how to perceive the public sometimes. When I come out with something like that and I see a huge reception that’s really nice to know that I can just scale up those kinds of brews.”

Beard has had to scale up his Black Beard recipe, a malty, creamy milk chocolate oatmeal stout, and keep it brewing in his kettles, flowing from his taps and filling up cans.

“When I created the Black Beard recipe I thought it would be a seasonal winter beer, yet with the flavours of chocolate and coffee, and the slightly sweet finish, women in particular, but men as well, didn’t know beer could taste like that,” Beard says. “Until you allow it to pass their mouth and to reach their tongue, they actually realize, wow, beer is actually more about just getting drunk. It can be a food experience. It can be a new experience. We’re really seeing a massive shift where we have regulars that are here every day, every week, every month that want to try what’s next, what’s new, what do you have coming for flavour.”

Mirosevic has a similar recipe in the Mighty Peace Breakfast Porter, made with locally-roasted Peruvian coffee beans.

“It’s very nice to blend in with a porter because it’s not overbearing and it’s just there for subtlety. But it will also add a little bit of a caffeine kick. I added chocolate to that, too, and it makes for a real nice porter,” he says.

Kegs of Mighty Peace’s cherry kolsch and guava and mango ale run out faster than you can fill a growler, and a Dry Hopped Hazy Sour is the last of the brewery’s pilot sour series this spring,

Both Beard and Mirosevic have their eye on sustainability, using B.C. grown grain and hops paired with whatever local ingredients they can find and forage. Both use Mackay Farms down the highway in Taylor for honey — raw and unpasteurized straight from the hive, which sweetens the Apricot Buzz and Belgian saison at Mighty Peace, and the signature Bee Sting Lager and new Honey IPL at Beard’s.

In return, Beard sends his spent grain back to the farm so it can be fed to their pigs, ensuring zero waste. Beard is also working with local farmers and hopes he’ll have a first locally-grown batch of hops to use next summer.

“They take three years for the roots to establish before you get a viable crop so they’re about two years in,” Beard says. “Simply because I’m from here, I want locals supporting locals … It’s really the whole basis of my business.”

Mirosevic hopes that one day, market demand will be there for local farmers to be able to supply the breweries with locally malted grain.

“Crafting good raw materials and crafting good beer is not easy. Any one of us can brew beer, grow hops, probably not malt, but grow barley. But to me, it’s only sustainable if there’s real care and nurture into it,” he says.

In 2019, the two helped to co-organize Fort St. John’s first craft beer festival, selling out the city’s historic Lido Theatre and introducing hundreds not only to their brands, but to other breweries from across Northern B.C. For Mirosevic, who was still new to Fort St. John at the time, the festival helped him and his partner settle into the community.

With Mighty Peace located a block away from Fort St. John’s redeveloped Centennial Park, which includes a brand new bandstand and market plaza, Mirosevic hopes the park may one day soon play host to its sequel.

“I met all my really good friends here,” he says. “You meet people in the same space with the same interests.”

Beard says he’s seen an explosion of interest at local liquor stores ever since, where breweries such as Trench and Crossroads from Prince George, and Barkerville from Quesnel, are now common on the shelves.

And soon these two Peace Country breweries will be joined by a third: the Post & Row Taphouse in Dawson Creek recently announced its plans to add a brewery to its facility.

Post & Row takes its name from two Dawson Creek landmarks: a historic row of grain elevators turned art gallery and railway museum, and the Mile 0 Post marking the start of the Alaska Highway. The taphouse hopes to open its brewery by the end of this year, or in early 2022. They have also collaborated with Mighty Peace on the new Post Voyage ESB, a classic English-style bitter ale with citrus-stone fruit and spice flavourings, and toffee malt profile.

“We were very excited, very willing to go for it,” says manager Jenifer Helboe. “We want beer out there. We didn’t want to keep waiting. It is a limited release, so we’re trying to convince them to keep it brewing, and maybe even help us out and let us bring it on to our brewery.”

Adds Mirosevic, “We were thinking about roots and the Peace as it once was, and the spirit of trying something new, and innovating and discovering. These guys genuinely want to learn. It was fun for me, for the first time in my career to just share the knowledge,” he says. “We’ll do it once a year. They’ll come up here, we’ll brew it again. It will be this hangout session and collaboration of the Peace — seeing the Peace in a cool way, in an entrepreneurial, free-spirited way.”

Until the brewery opens, the taphouse continues to build its brand in the community, fundraising this month to help a local school build a wheelchair-accessible playground. If public health restrictions allow, Helboe hopes she can hold events this summer to preview plans for the new brewery to the public, and continue enticing customers to come out and try new beers.

“We have already been busier than we imagined,” she says. “We already have people coming from Grande Prairie and Fort St. John that come down, so I think with the brewery it will just grow.”

“The craft beer revolution, even though we were probably five or ten years behind the rest of the province, has finally reached the northeast,” says Stephen Beard. “I’m excited for that.”

Fort St. John was recently added to the eastern leg of the NORTHERN BC ALE TRAIL and you will now find them in the BC Ale Trail mobile app.

Explore BC NOW

BC has now entered Step 2 of BC’s Restart Plan; travel throughout the province is now encouraged. It’s time to #exploreBCnow as #newexperiencesarebrewing. Book your summer getaway now (at exploreBC.com) and let the BC Ale Trail be your guide for your next Ale-venture. Travel safely and responsibly this summer. For those outside of British Columbia – we look forward to welcoming you soon.

BC’s breweries are strictly adhering to recommended COVID-19 safety protocols to keep both guests and staff safe. They are ready to welcome you for on-site patio tasting, with limited capacity indoors, or to pick up your favourites to go.

Please remember to be a Considerate Craft Beer Consumer. Let us each do our part now, so we can explore BC again, soon. We’re all in this together.

New Experiences are Brewing Nearby!

The post Fort St. John’s Breweries Are Flowing Like the Peace River appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Founded in 2015, the Kiwanis AleFest is a volunteer-run fundraiser organized by Kiwanis Prince George as an annual signature event to support local children charities and Ronald McDonald House. It typically takes place in Prince George in January each year and has grown to be one of B.C.’s most highly anticipated annual beer events.

The annual event usually includes two beer festival nights along with brewmaster dinners and cask events. Tickets sell out in minutes, according to festival organizer Jamie Cunningham, a volunteer with Kiwanis Prince George. And it’s all for a good cause — AleFest brings in about $70,000 for the Ronald McDonald House and other local charities.

Proceeds from an exclusive 8-pack will go to charities

This year, they’re bringing the festival to your living room and raising money for local charities by donating the proceeds from an all-new 8-pack, which includes one beer each from 8 Northern BC breweries.

“It was apparent by spring 2020 that we were not going to be able to host Kiwanis Alefest in 2021,” said AleFest organizer Jamie Cunningham. “However, we felt collectively that if there was a time that the breweries needed a little extra attention and people needed a little bit more happiness, it was this year. This project has been so much fun to plan, and the cherry on the top is that all the proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon, and charities that support kids and families in the North.”

Cunningham said she travelled across northern BC last summer.

“I visited every brewery and sat down with them to pitch the idea,” she said. Cunningham asked them all to produce a unique beer for inclusion in a special 8-pack of cans. 

For Craig Outhet, brewmaster at Wheelhouse Brewing in Prince Rupert, it was a no-brainer. “Wheelhouse Brewing has participated in the Kiwanis Ale Fest in Prince George every year since it started in 2015. It’s a joy to attend this well-run festival,” Outhet said. 

“Wheelhouse Brewing is happy to give back and support the Prince George Kiwanis charity by participating in the 8-pack super pack!” 

These limited-edition, never-before-canned beers will be available for sale at breweries and liquor stores throughout Northern and Interior BC beginning on Friday, January 29, 2021. 

The 8-pack includes one beer each from the following breweries (listed in geographical order from west to east):

• Wheelhouse Brewing (Prince Rupert) 
• Sherwood Mountain Brewhouse (Terrace) 
• Smithers Brewing (Smithers)
• Trench Brewing & Distilling (Prince George)
• CrossRoads Brewing & Distillery (Prince George)
• Barkerville Brewing (Quesnel) 
• Three Ranges Brewing (Valemount) 
• Mighty Peace Brewing (Fort St John) in collaboration with Iron Road Brewing (Kamloops) and Smithers Brewing (Smithers)

For info on the beers check out these two Instagram videos featuring tastings with the brewers themselves:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kiwanis AleFest (@kiwanisalefest)

 

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A post shared by Kiwanis AleFest (@kiwanisalefest)

Virtual Events

The BC Ale Trail’s Virtual Hoppy Hour will showcase the beers on Thursday, January 28 at 6:00pm on Instagram, followed by a Virtual Tasting of all eight brews on Friday, January 29 at 7:00pm, co-hosted by Aaron Johnson, the Cascadian Beer Podcaster, and me.

Kiwanis AleFest Prize Pack

It’s been a tough year for everyone in Prince George, and Kiwanis wants to support the city’s great local restaurants – many of whom have supported Kiwanis AleFest since the beginning. In addition to buying the 8-pack, Kiwanis is encouraging folks to #SupportPG with a chance to win a Kiwanis AleFest prize pack. For information on how to enter the contest, visit the Kiwanis AleFest site.

One lucky winner will win an amazing prize pack valued at approximately $270 that includes: two tickets to Kiwanis AleFest 2022, four Kiwanis AleFest beer glasses, and a $100 gift certificate to one participating downtown Prince George establishment of your choice. The draw date is March 2nd, 2021.

Bring the party home!

The Kiwanis AleFest planning committee, breweries, restaurants, and volunteers are going to miss partying with everybody this year! To help make 2021 more of an all-around experience, they have reached out to all of the breweries and requested their favourite songs to play in-house or while brewing. Visit www.kiwanisalefest.ca/turn-it-up/ to check out the free Apple Music and Spotify playlist. (Please note the playlist is recommended for a 19+ audience!)

The post Celebrate Kiwanis AleFest At Home with 8 Exclusive Beers appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

My most recent Hops Among Friends interview was with Cam McKeigan from Smithers Brewing up in Smithers. At the end of the interview, Cam suggested that I interview Erin Dale, the head brewer and a shareholder at Barkerville Brewing. Barkerville Brewing opened up in 2014 in the town of Quesnel on the Northern BC Ale Trail.

This is my ninth interview in this series and Erin is the first female I have interviewed. I was really interested to hear more from Erin on her background and her time working in the industry. It was also great to learn more about Quesnel, a town which I look forward to one day exploring.

KL: How did you get started in craft beer?

ED: Mostly by drinking it. (Laughs). I was a tree planter for 15 years, and as much as I loved forestry work, it meant a lot of travel. I wanted to be at home more and I was looking for a change. One day, the manager at our local liquor store in Quesnel told me that a new brewery had just opened in town, so I went in and asked if they were hiring. I met Justine, the general manager at Barkerville, and she said they would be hiring for two positions. So, I went home and put together my resume. While I didn’t have a lot of experience in craft beer other than enjoying it as a consumer, I was super excited that something new and community-oriented was coming to Quesnel. I had some relevant experience including knowing how to drive a forklift. I had an opportunity to be interviewed with the owner, Russ, and I met Troy, the head brewer at the time. I started the next week in February 2014 right when they were ready to start brewing. I got my start doing keg washing, bottling, and washing tanks. I also worked in the storefront part-time. At that time, we all took turns working in the storefront because we were just producing one beer at the time.

As time went on, I ended up brewing a few times with Troy, and I also brewed on my own a handful of times, when Troy left, I became our brewer. I was so thankful I got the chance to move into this role. I got some support from industry veteran Bill Herdman at the beginning. Bill helped change some of the processes around at the brewery, and so I learned to adapt to changes, which helped me feel more comfortable. It was intense, and sort of scary, but I knew what I was getting into, and I wanted to take on the challenge. Things have changed a lot over the last four years. Right after I took on the brewing role, I started on a brewing certificate from IBD (Institute of Brewing and Distilling) in London, England. I’m working on my diploma now. This training has been super, super helpful.

KL: What do you love most about the craft beer industry?

ED: I like the community the most. My previous industry in forestry was also very tight. Brewing is very similar. I like the people I work with, my co-workers. In northern BC, a number of breweries opened around the same time. We all know each other, even though we live hours apart. I can call up my brewery colleagues and they will help me however they can. We all want each other to be successful. There is a lot of pride up here with what we are doing and what we are brewing. I’m so proud of Michael from Three Ranges Brewing who won a Gold medal at a recent BC Brewing Awards. I was so proud of him.

KL: Tell me about one of your beer accomplishments to date that you are most proud of.

ED: I’ve made a couple of mistakes that have worked out really well. An example comes from one of our most popular beers, our Sluice Juice, a Hazy Pale Ale. About two years ago, we were going to make a fresh hop beer, using hops from a local grower that has two acres of hops. I created a recipe and planned to use a Sacc. Trois yeast that I wanted to try. At the last minute, it turned out there weren’t enough fresh hops. The grower was located close to a number of significant wildfires that year and had sacrificed irrigation for protecting the farm instead, so the hop yield was quite low. I had also grown my own hops, so I had a small amount of hops. I combined the two small sets of fresh hops and put them in a hop bath. But then I started having problems with our pump. It was one of those times when everything was not working out as planned. So, we ended up skipping the hops, and off it went into the fermenter. I decided to dry hop it to make it fruity. It was a limited release beer just in draft format, but it was very well received. We ended up making more of it and we put it out in cans as an experimental beer with a simple label and got some good feedback on it. On one of the batches, we had some issues with that yeast in our packaged beer, so I switched to a kveik yeast, which has worked well. It’s an easy-drinking beer, dry hopped with El Dorado, Galaxy, and Amarillo. It has lots of stone fruit and tropical fruit notes, and it finally got a branded label. So, I would say that I’m very proud of the fact that I was able to make lemonade out of lemons, as the saying goes. It was a mistake that worked out really well for us.

KL: What is something that makes Barkerville Brewing unique?

ED: Well, there are a lot of women that work here. We started with two men and two women working here. As we hired more people, it just turned out we ended up with more women. Our GM, salesperson, and all three of us on in production are women, and our retail manager is a woman. It just happened that way. We have had men working with us in the past. I think it’s a cool accomplishment that we have so many women working at our brewery, and especially in a northern community. It’s nice to work with this group of women who are really into craft beer.

Because we have always had a number of women on our team, we have typically done a beer in support of the Pink Boots Society which helps women in the beer industry.

This spring, we brewed a beer named after Barkerville pioneer Florence Wilson. Florence was a published writer whose mother knew Charles Dickens. She travelled to Victoria from England on a “bride-ship.” She worked in Victoria until she had enough money saved, and then she took the very first BX Express stagecoach to Barkerville. She had a large book collection and was the founder of the Cariboo Literary Institute. She was one of the first people to bring literacy to the Cariboo region. She owned stakes in some gold claims and she also owned the Phoenix Saloon and Brewery. We tracked down Florence’s niece, who sent us a photo for the label. We named the beer Aunt Florence. It’s a gruit, so there are no hops in it. This red ale was created to alleviate PMS symptoms and help with relaxation, using local plants including juniper branches, chamomile, yarrow flowers, and rosehip. Partial proceeds from this beer support Ovarian Cancer Research. This beer is available in 650ml bombers. It’s a one-off limited release beer, but there is still some of it out there. It tastes great and I am really proud of it.

Apart from that, I think one of the things that is quite cool about our brewery is that we have 12 taps that are always full with our beer. We are a smaller 15 hL brewery. For a brewery our size, with a single brewer, it’s pretty unique to have 12 different beers on tap at any time. We also package in both cans and bottles, and we have both a can and bottling line in our brewhouse.

KL: What do you think COVID-19 means for the future of BC’s craft brewing industry?

ED: I know some breweries have closed already, and I think we may see more closures. There are a lot of breweries. I think even without COVID some may have closed. For new breweries that opened just before COVID hit, or for new breweries planning to open, I imagine it will be very hard on them. We get tons of tourists here on their way through town, but some breweries rely on tourism more than we do, so I am worried about the breweries that depend on tourism.

KL: How has your brewery been impacted by COVID-19?

ED: We have a very busy taproom, it’s a community hub here in Quesnel. So, it was a big hit to the community to have the taproom closed. It’s been really sad not seeing people here. It was really hard for so many businesses, and ours was no different. There were a lot of pint sales lost in the taproom. We stayed open for packaged beer and takeout food, plus we did deliveries. We are very thankful that we had packaged product to sell. But we are really glad to be open again. We are so lucky to have a patio, and we are expanding our patio to help us increase our capacity.

KL: Speaking of summer, what else do you have planned at Barkerville this summer?

ED: We’ll be bringing back our Hurdy Gurdy Hibiscus Pale Ale. It was our first Pink Boots Society collaboration beer. It’s nice and tart, and it’s pink because of the hibiscus. It’s the perfect beer to enjoy on the patio. We are bringing it back again for the summer. It will be available in four-packs of 473ml cans. This is the first beer that we packaged with compostable rings. They were a hit, so now we use them on all of our canned products. The fish can eat them, and actually, my dogs love eating them too.

KL: We’re in the heat of the summer, what is in your glass these days?

ED: In our region, we have lots of cool nights even in the summer, so my favourite is our dark lager, Ganzfeld Effect Schwarzbier. It’s perfect by the campfire. I also drink a lot of our Gold Trail Pale Ale. It’s low alcohol. It’s hop forward with nice citrusy and forestry notes. When not drinking our beer, I really enjoy the Wheelhouse All Inclusive Kettle Sour. It was aged on pineapple and it has coconut in it. It’s tart and really nice.

KL: What is it like living in Quesnel?

ED: I love it here. I moved here from the Island. I like that we have four seasons here, and that there is so much to do every season. I love that. The winter is cold and there is lots of snow. There’s great cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing, and backcountry touring. I like that I can look up at the stars at night. There is a big cycling community here too, with lots of great mountain bike trails. I don’t mountain bike myself, but I know there are great cycling trails in the area.

We are at the fork of two rivers – the Fraser and Quesnel rivers. There are lots of lakes in the area which are great for boating, water skiing, and fishing. There is lots of history here, both First Nations and settler history. There is a huge range of people that call this area home, from farmers to artists to activists. It’s a pretty great community.

KL: Can you tell us about a hidden gem that someone has to experience in Quesnel?

ED: There are gorgeous waterfalls in the area, one of them is Wineglass Falls. It’s just a short hike to the falls. There is also Nazko Cone, which is a huge volcanic lava cone. There’s great hiking there and a cave to explore.

Also, Bowron Lake Provincial Park is less than 90 minutes away. It features the world-renowned Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit. You can paddle the chain of lakes for days. It’s gorgeous. You’ll see snow-capped mountain peaks and waterfalls.

KL: With travel restrictions in place this summer, people are going to be looking for opportunities to discover their own backyards. What do you recommend?

ED: We have a cute town with a real downtown. It’s filled with independent stores, with hanging flower baskets. We have a great playground for kids. When you’re in town, you can take in the River Trail which features two different 5km trails that take your through downtown across the river and by the creek.

Quesnel is a good base to start from and adventure from here. The stretch from Quesnel to Barkerville has a number of really neat historical stops. For example, Cottonwood House is an old Gold Rush house. It is a historic site; one of the oldest buildings in the province. There is Cold Spring Creek, which was a roadhouse and general store. You can visit Robber’s Roost where robbers used to hangout. There are lots of stops along the way.

There is also the Likely Loop Driving Tour where you’ll travel from Quesnel to Barkerville, through Likely and Horsefly. You’ll see the Cariboo River, Ghost Lake, and cascading waterfalls. There is an awesome old pub in Likely named The Likely Lodge with great food. It’s a great way to see the diversity of the region, and you can enjoy some fishing and camping along the way. I think it’s important to make sure wherever folks are heading, that communities and First Nations are welcoming visitors.

KL: Who else in the craft beer industry do you find interesting and why?

ED: David Beardsell from Red Collar Brewing in Kamloops. He has years of experience in the industry, and I imagine that he has a pretty unique perspective. His beers are delicious, and I would be interested in reading what he has to say about the industry.

Stay tuned for the next instalment of the Hops Among Friends blog series, where I speak with David Beardsell from Red Collar Brewing. Until then, cheers!

The post Hops Among Friends: Erin Dale of Barkerville Brewing appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.