Get inspired for a spring road trip with this look back at Hanna Irvine’s visit to Rossland in the West Kootenays.

The May long weekend is the undisputed unofficial start of the summer in BC. In the Okanagan, it’s the date when old-timers deem it safe to plant out tender seedlings, restaurants and breweries start to set up their patio seating, and the seasonal wineries and cideries open their doors for the summer season. It also seems to be the first major camping weekend for many, and while I prefer my accommodation to be a little more luxurious than a tent these days, the promise of warm sunny days ahead has me itching to go on an adventure. 

On this particular “May Long”, my husband Tom and I chose the West Kootenays to be the focus of our adventure. We know (and love) the popular destination of Nelson very well, but this time we wanted to explore a new area, so we opted to stay in Rossland, a little further south. 

Rossland is a city, but in name only, and all the better for it. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. This cute mountain town has a fascinating heritage that is reflected in the buildings and statues in the diminutive downtown area. The main street is lined with beautiful heritage buildings, all of which have plaques detailing their history. For a self-confessed history nerd like me, this was heaven; the stories give the town a sense of place and add to a sense of connection with the area. 

Rossland is known for its outdoor activities, with Red Mountain Ski Resort on its doorstep and over 200km of hiking and biking trails surrounding the town. Despite arriving in a snowstorm (I think someone forgot to tell Mother Nature that this was supposed to be the start of summer!), we had missed the ski season, but we were looking forward to exploring the trails with the dogs and rewarding ourselves with a well-earned beer afterwards.

Beer in Rossland means one thing…. the Rossland Beer Company. Founded in 2012 by two childhood friends, Petri Raito and Ryan Arnaud, this local hub is right in the heart of the town, both literally and figuratively. Petri told me that they both love Rossland, feeling lucky to have their business in this “little slice of paradise,” and this appreciation of the town is obvious in the brewery they’ve created. I’d been following the brewery’s social media pages prior to the trip, and I love their close connection with the community. Their sponsorship of local athletes, promotion of other local businesses, collections for the food bank, and helping with maintenance of local trails all demonstrates a commitment to their hometown. This is clearly more than just a brewery. 

We visited the taproom on the Saturday evening of our stay, and it is exactly what a mountain town brewery should be — rustic, friendly and comfortable. The wooden décor echoes the forests that encompass the area, while the wall art showcases the local natural environment. Even the light fitting, which is made of skis, reflects the outdoorsy vibe of a mountain town. Don’t go there expecting the airs and graces of a fancy city bar; instead, you can expect to find a warm, welcoming space, where locals and visitors alike congregate to share stories and enjoy a beer together — a home from home. 

Tom and I settled down with a flight apiece and were delighted with the seven beers on tap that day. These are all well-crafted and delicious brews, suggestive of an experienced and talented brewer at work here. The Genuine Draft was a malty delight, while Uncle Vinny’s Cream Ale was as smooth as silk, with notes of vanilla.

The New Zealand Pilsner was faithful to the style with a fresh, herbal, almost grassy taste, and the Best Day Ever had the characteristic flavours of an IPA, but was smooth, well-balanced, and accessible. My favourite had to be the Red Zeppelin Raspberry Wheat Ale, with all the distinctive flavour of a wheat beer combined with a subtle hint of raspberry — not too sweet, not too tart, but a delicious beer with fruit notes, rather than a fruit drink. We couldn’t leave without taking a few beers to share with friends back home, so we bought some cans of the sublime Green Jacket Pale Ale and a crowler of Uncle Vinny’s before bidding farewell.

Our home for the weekend was in the aptly named Happy Valley, right at the head of a vast trail network. We awoke on Sunday morning to a damp, misty day, but after two hours of hiking through lush forests, we were rewarded with the sun breaking through the clouds to reveal glimpses of mountain tops and spectacular scenery. 

It was still too early for a beer (even for us!) so we refuelled at The Alpine Grind Coffeehouse with freshly brewed coffee and the most divine scones I’ve ever tasted, before heading over to check out the Rossland Museum and Discovery Centre. 

The museum is on the Kootenay Rockies West Ale Trail, and when we looked around, it became evident why — Rossland has a rich tradition of craft beer, and the museum has a whole exhibit dedicated to the business of brewing. The exhibit features a detailed history of the town’s breweries, artifacts including old barrels and taps, historical photos, and even a recreation of a bar. The highlight for me, however, was the wall of back-lit glass bottles, which included beer bottles from Victoria Brewing Company, alongside bottles from the pre-prohibition Rossland breweries. The museum is much more than beer, though; it’s huge and covers Rossland’s fascinating history from the early gold rush boom years to the more recent incarnation of mountain sport resort town.

Our time in the Kootenays was too brief to visit all the of breweries in the area, and we were disappointed to miss nearby Tailout Brewing in Trail. Thank goodness for the well-stocked liquor store in Rossland then, which allowed us to sample a few beers from the other superb local craft breweries from the comfort of our vacation hot tub. We are already planning a return trip to visit these breweries in person, and maybe check out one of the numerous festivals that take place in the area during the summer. The Beer Goggles Craft Brew Festival, held at Red Mountain Resort, was being advertised during our stay and certainly piqued our interest*. Maybe that’s the weekend we should return.

*Editor’s note: the 2026 Beer Goggles festival date has not been announced yet. This blog was originally published in June, 2024 – brewery menus and offerings are subject to change since publication. 

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post A Long Weekend in the West Kootenays appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

Fall is the perfect time to explore this corner of BC. By the end of September, the high summer Okanagan temperatures have given way to crisp mornings and gentle sunny afternoons, and the dry, warm climate means that outdoor activities can be enjoyed long into November. The throngs of tourists associated with the peak summer season have also melted away by the fall, leaving a peaceful serenity and allowing for undisturbed bird watching and deserted trails. It is the unique beauty of the light at this time of year, however, that is the highlight of an autumnal trip to West Kelowna. The fall sunshine glimmers on the lake, and the rusted hues of the trees and flora on the surrounding mountains are accentuated by the mellow, golden light, creating a magical experience for visitors.

Hit the Trails

With sweeping vistas across Okanagan Lake and the surrounding valley, West Kelowna is a paradise for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. A network of trails caters to hikers and bikers of all ages and abilities, from gentle family-friendly paths to the more challenging trails for adrenaline junkies. Meanwhile, the 135km-long lake offers unique fishing and birding opportunities. The newly opened Westside Multi-Use Trail now connects West Kelowna to Peachland, offering a safe, car-free route for pedestrians and cyclists wishing to explore further afield. 

Best foot forward

West Kelowna is overlooked by the imposing Mount Boucherie. This 60-million-year-old extinct volcano rises 758m and rewards those who hike the 6km round trip to the summit with spectacular panoramic views of the Okanagan. Thanks to its explosive past, the mountain features unique rock formations and streams of ancient, solidified lava rock, which can be seen from the well-maintained and sign-posted trails. 

To the south of West Kelowna, Goat’s Peak Regional Park rises above Seclusion Bay, also providing hikers with terrific views of the valley below. This 63-hectare park ascends steeply from the shores of Okanagan Lake and offers a rocky trail through protected grasslands and a challenging climb up to the peak through open woodland. The Mountain Goat Trail to the summit is a 5.3km round trip with an elevation gain of 385m and rewards those who conquer it with awe-inspiring 360-degree views. 

To the northeast of Goat’s Peak lies the 95-hectare Glen Canyon Regional Park. There, the trails meander under the forest canopy, following the babbling waters of Powers Creek, and culminate with impressive views of a 24m tumbling waterfall. Interpretive signs along the way highlight the canyon geology and syilx history, while shady resting spots offer glimpses of the many animals that call the park home. Though just minutes away from the city streets, these trails are a haven of tranquillity. 

For those seeking a less strenuous excursion, the Waterfront Trail in Kalamoir Regional Park is an easy 1.5km beachfront trail. The easy access provided by the trail to beaches, an accessible dock, and two off-leash dog beaches makes it the perfect outing for families with young children or fur babies and for those with limited mobility. 

Get on your bike!

Just a seven-minute drive from downtown West Kelowna lies a mountain biker’s utopia: the Smith Creek Trail Network. This hidden gem offers thrill-seekers challenging ascents, such as the Holy Pail Up Climb, and adrenaline-pumping, fast, flowing descents. The network has routes for all abilities, with colour-coded trails indicating the skill level required, and some sections providing ride-around options for tricky man-made features.  The majority of the trails here cater to intermediate/advanced riders; however, it is in these more challenging routes that the park comes into its own. Those seeking the rush of a fast descent with berms, jumps, and technical features should check out the South Trail Descent, while those wanting to catch some air should head to the Smith Creek Jump Line. If you’re looking for a little company on the trails, Sovereign Cycle organizes group rides on Tuesday evenings throughout the fall. Check out their social media pages for more information on dates and times.  

A bird’s eye view

Over 240 species of birds have been identified in the Greater Westside (West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation) by local birdwatchers, and October offers unique sightings of migratory birds, making this the ideal fall getaway destination for ‘twitchers’ and bird enthusiasts. The flocks of Sandhill Cranes passing overhead in early October are a spectacular sight, with their prehistoric-sounding cries being audible long before they are visible. Summer-visiting birds such as Western Tanagers, Orioles, Grosbeaks and most of the warblers migrate at this time, as do many of the ducks and grebes who move south a little later in October and November. But not all birds are leaving the Okanagan, and fall sees the return of Arctic birds such as Tundra and Trumpeter Swans, Snow Geese, Rough-Legged Hawks and Bohemian Waxwings. Birds can be spotted in all of West Kelowna’s regional parks, while the lakeshore offers fantastic opportunities for observing waterbirds. An excellent birding map and guide is available to help visitors locate and identify the many different species in the area. 

Indigenous Experiences

West Kelowna is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the syilx/Okanagan people who have lived here since time immemorial. The Indigenous community on this land is the Westbank First Nation, a self-governing band that is one of the eight bands which comprise the Okanagan Nation Alliance. The Sncewips Heritage Museum in West Kelowna is owned and operated by the Westbank First Nation to provide a space for syilx voices. The name sncewips translates as “a conversation with an ancestor,” which perfectly captures the ethos behind the museum. Through its captivating displays, exhibits, artwork, and storytelling, the museum showcases the heritage and culture of the Okanagan People. Sncewips offers guided tours of the museum and outdoor tours of the Westbank First Nation community core, while the gift shop features authentic Indigenous products which honour the traditions and craftsmanship of the local Indigenous community. Museum docent Coralee Miller is an outstanding guide who brings the experience to life with a wealth of knowledge and fascinating stories. This exceptional museum is a must-do for any visit to West Kelowna, and after your visit, don’t forget to pop in to the Indigenous-owned and operated Kekuli Café for hot coffee and a mouthwatering traditional bannock.

Fall Nut Harvest at Gellatly Nut Farm

Fall is the peak time of year to visit West Kelowna’s historic Gellatly Nut Farm Park. Although this 117-year-old heritage site is open year-round, a visit to the park in September to mid-November coincides with the nut harvest, when visitors can pick their own nuts or purchase pre-picked bags of nuts such as chestnuts and hazelnuts at the on-site store.  The Gellatly Nut Farm Society hosts a Harvest Festival in October to celebrate the nut harvest, with family entertainment, kids’ crafts, live music, tours of the historic grounds, and, of course, nut harvesting. 

Quench your thirst

Traditionally a mecca for wine connoisseurs, in recent years, West Kelowna has been making a splash in the craft beer community, too. With three breweries opening within the last four years, West Kelowna is fast becoming a destination for beer enthusiasts, and with fall-inspired brews and events on the horizon, these tap rooms are not to be missed!

Lakesider Brewing Co.

Lakesider Brewing Co. emphasizes the easy-going Okanagan lifestyle with the comfortable lake house-style interior of their award-winning taproom, and their patio-perfect, flavourful beers. Here you can expect crisp lagers, fruity wheat beers, and flavour-packed ales all crafted for sipping in the sunshine.  With outdoor living firmly in the limelight, it comes as no surprise that Lakesider boasts a family- and pet-friendly heated patio from which to enjoy a beverage and artisanal pizza from the taproom kitchen. Even as the mercury falls in the latter months of the year, guests can stay toasty warm around the cozy fireplace. Fall is celebrated at Lakesider with Oktoberfest festivities taking place at the brewery in early October, and a Halloween party happening at the end of the month. For beer aficionados, Lakesider offers an impressive lineup of rotating taproom brews, with mouthwatering new releases coming this fall. Look out for their light, citrusy Whitecap Witbier, velvety-smooth Midnight Swim nitro stout, Belgian Cherry Ale brewed with local cherries and packed with big Belgian flavours, and the fruity, aptly named, Fireside Winter Ale, all coming soon. 

The Hatching Post

The Hatching Post is a brewery unlike any other! The brainchild of Jason Parkes Customs, the brewery appears to be straight out of a western movie and looks somewhat incongruous amongst the rather more genteel wineries of the Westside Wine Trail. But that is exactly the ethos of The Hatching Post – unlike anyone else, but inclusive to all. To step inside the custom-built brewery saloon is to step back in time to another world, where you can hitch up your horse, lay down your hat, and sling back a refreshing beer. The spacious patio caters not just to faithful steeds, but kids and dogs are welcome here too. The brews themselves, such as The Aristocrat Amber Ale and Parlour Tricks Hazy IPA, all represent characters and stories from The Wild Bunch. Expect traditional American-style craft beer from the core beers, augmented by some more unusual rotating seasonal taps. For those looking to refuel, the food at The Hatching Post is something to behold, with the Smokeshow BBQ serving vast helpings of tender Texas-style BBQ meat. Groups can opt to share one of the brewery’s signature platters, such as the “Meat Sweats” platter, an enormous banquet of smoked and slow-cooked meats. On Thursdays, the saloon hosts “Spaghetti Western Night” where adults can tuck into plates piled high with spaghetti, meat sauce and smoky meatballs for just $20, and kids under 10 eat for free. The fall months are action-packed at the Hatching Post: take the stress out of Thanksgiving dinner preparations and head to the saloon for their Thanksgiving feast; don your lederhosen and join in the Oktoberfest celebrations the following weekend; or get your spook on with Halloween cocktails, costume prizes and live music at the Haunted Saloon on October 31. Rumour also has it that the brewery is getting ready to launch a seasonal Cherry Stout, which will be available at Brewphoria on October 25

Connector Brewing

Having only just celebrated its first birthday, Connector Brewing is the newest brewery to the craft beer scene in West Kelowna. As the name suggests, Connector is all about the connections we make with other individuals, community to community, and with nature. The modern taproom has been created to reflect these ideals, with the fresh space designed in such a way that no matter where you are seated, you are connected to other elements, whether it be engaging with the natural surroundings by taking in the view of the lake, or joining in on an event from the mezzanine bar. Even the brewery production space is connected to the taproom, with large windows providing a link between guests and the production team. Although the brewery doesn’t currently have a patio (they are working on one for next summer, so watch this space…), the vast garage doors are opened on warm days to create an inside/outside vibe, and allow visitors to sip and bask in the autumn sunshine. Connector’s selection of core beers is approachable with an emphasis on easy-drinking, lower-alcohol patio sippers, such as the crushable Citrus Got Real Lime Lager and the refreshingly herbal Hunnie I Basiled the Kids Pale Ale. This fall, the brewery is releasing a series of small-batch beers which showcase the Okanagan fall harvest and take a fun and fresh play on their delicious lagers. Gerry’s Berry Splash features a blueberry and blackberry infusion, while the next batch, Say it Ain’t Sauv, will be a Kolsch celebrating the wine harvest. This homage to the fall continues with Connector’s second annual Fall Festival taking place at the start of October. If you miss that event, make sure to check out their weekly music bingo or the open mic Jazz Jam featuring a house band, which takes place on the first Friday of each month.

Hit the Hay

After a busy day of hiking, biking, eating and drinking, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest your head, and with a diverse selection of accommodation options, West Kelowna has you covered. The Cove Lakeside Resort is situated on the water’s edge, right next door to the Gellatly Nut Farm and within walking distance to two trailheads and birding locations. The spacious, private, 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom suites are tucked amongst beautiful gardens, and feature balconies or patios where guests can soak up the afternoon fall sunshine with views of either the lake or the surrounding mountains. There is an on-site spa to relax and rejuvenate the weariest of travellers, and visitors in early October can enjoy two outdoor heated pools, a private beach, and a selection of lawn games. Those staying later in the fall are able to warm up in the outdoor hot tub or get cozy next to one of the fire pits on the hotel grounds. 

The brand-new Doubletree by Hilton opened earlier this year, close to the Glen Canyon Regional Park and a short hop to the Smith Creek Trails. The on-site restaurant, Turtle Jacks, has a lounge to relax in and enjoy watching your favourite sports team on large screen TVs. The hotel features both indoor and outdoor pools and a fitness suite. 

Conveniently located next to the Two Eagle Golf Course and a short walk to restaurants and shops, the Fairfield by Marriott has been recently renovated and offers comfortable accommodation at an affordable price. The indoor pool here is a firm favourite with families, as it features a kids’ splash zone and waterslide. 

With its unparalleled position between the lake and mountains, picture-perfect panoramas, and such a vast array of activities on offer, West Kelowna is sure to be your new favourite fall escape. So pack your bags and get ready to take it all in on the Kelowna and West Kelowna Ale Trail.

Every Pint Tells a Story

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community.

The post Fall in Love with West Kelowna appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

It may be sacrilege to say this, but I don’t think that beer is the best thing about the brewing industry. Controversial, I know! Sure, it’s the ultimate aim, and the delicious reward for all the hard work, sweat, and tears, but really, the highlight of this industry isn’t the liquid in your glass, but the people behind it.

How many other industries are there where numerous individual businesses support and collaborate with one another for the benefit of everyone, rather than compete for attention? I love that would-be rival breweries come together to form “Beer Blocks”, share resources in brewery collectives, and work together to create unusual and unique collaboration brews. 

In recent years, the industry has also worked hard to confront inequalities and support underrepresented groups within the brewing community. Organizations like Pink Boots Society have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to address gender divisions, champion diversity, and promote an equitable community. Having cheered these groups from the sidelines for many years, I was thrilled to be invited to join an inspirational group of women (and a few men) from the beer industry for a brew day at Cannery Brewing in Penticton. And this wasn’t any old brew day, we would be brewing a Mango Milkshake IPA “Babe Brew” – an exciting collaboration between Cannery Brewing and the Beer Babes Family.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Beer Babes Family, they are a charitable organization that describes themselves as “a global inclusive community for all women in beer”. Co-founder Roxy Brossoit explains that the organization works to “support and positively engage all women in the beer community” from “the casual beer drinkers to the highest level of brewers, Cicerones, and Beer Judges.” I have to admit that I was initially a little sceptical of the name “Beer Babes”. I have never considered myself a “babe,” and the connotations that the name invokes did not sit comfortably with me. My mind was put at ease, though, once I had chatted with a couple of women connected to the Beer Babes Family about this issue. Far from reinforcing the stereotype of a “babe,” the name had been carefully chosen to challenge preconceptions of women in the beer industry, and what it means to be a “beer babe.” In doing so, the organization is striving to change the narrative, from one where women in the brewing industry were limited to a sexualised role of selling or serving beer, to one in which women are empowered in all aspects of the industry. 

Pictured above: two of the three Canadian board members of the Beer Babes Family – missing: Catherine Leclerc

Babe Brews play a pivotal role in this mission to promote women in the industry. The Beer Babes Family collaborates with breweries throughout North America to produce unique beers under the Babe Brews label. A percentage of the proceeds from the sale of these Babe Brews then go to the Beer Babes Family Grants Program, which awards grants to women who work in the beer industry and are trying to improve their beer business. The Beer Babes Family describes Babe Brew as “a series of beers dedicated to the women of our personal lives and of the world: who inspire us, push us, make us think deeper, mentor us and lead by example. To the women who break rules and norms, speak their truth with compassion, live each day with unapologetic confidence, and champion equality for all.” In short, this sounds like a brew that I could wholeheartedly get on board with.

The Beer Babes Family states that they will collaborate with any brewery that has a good reputation for equality and supporting women of all gender identities in beer, and Cannery Brewing couldn’t be closer to the mark. Co-founder and general manager, Patt Dyck, opened the brewery back in 2000 and has been a mainstay in the brewing industry ever since. She was flying the flag of gender equality and inclusivity in brewing at a time when I didn’t even know what a craft beer was, let alone understand the industry behind the brewing process. Kim Lawton from the Cannery Brewing team describes Patt as “an inspiring leader and manager” who “blazed a trail for so many women to work in the craft beer industry.” It was the perfect location, therefore, for this particular group of female beer enthusiasts to meet early one Thursday morning to brew beer. 

The group was made up of representatives from all aspects of the brewing industry: from beer blogger and aficionado Colleen Bond and her husband Phil, to Cicerone-in-training Alaina Parchmann, Okanagan Fest of Ale judge Crystal Coverdale, and the first female Cicerone in Western Canada, Lundy Dale, representing both the BC Craft Brewers Guild and Pink Boots Society. Local breweries were also represented with Eleanore Farley, Kim Lawton, and of course, Patt Dyck from the Cannery team; Jill Jarret and Jess Kozak from BNA Brewing in Kelowna, Vernon, and soon Penticton as well; and Brittany Montgomery, head brewer at Giant’s Head Brewing in Summerland, assisting the Cannery brewing team. 

Ross Thompson, head brewer and co-owner of Cannery Brewing, led us through the process, encouraging us all to jump in and help with various stages of the brew and explaining the more technical side of things. The mash was made with a mix of barley, oats, and wheat from Canada Malting Company, with the milkshake component of the IPA coming from the addition of vanilla and milk sugars. Ross talked us through his choice of hops for this beer: it will be double dry-hopped with Simcoe and Citra hops from Hops Connect Canada. The combination of these two hop varietals should create a mango flavour, with the Citra hops imbuing the beer with a citrus flavour, while the Simcoe hops add notes of pine. The mango flavour won’t just come from the hops, though, as vast quantities of mango puree will be added to the brew during the secondary fermentation stage, giving it a totally tropical taste. 

Now we sit and wait for the hops, grain, water, and yeast to do their magic (well, except the Cannery Brewing team, who still have to finish the brew and can it. Sorry, folx!). According to Ross, the result should be a “super fruity, strong beer with a luxurious and rich mouthfeel” – I, for one, can’t wait to try it! The release date for this Mango Milkshake IPA Babe Brew will be Friday, May 9, in the Cannery Brewing taproom – just in time for Mother’s Day. The beer will be available on tap and in cans, and remember, the more you buy, the more you help to support women in the industry. Sounds like a win-win situation to me! 

•••

The Mango Milkshake IPA will be released on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Cannery Brewing. It will be available in 4-packs of 473ml cans in the taproom and at private liquor stores around BC and Alberta for a limited time.

Every Pint Tells a Story –

Supporting Local. Celebrating Community

The post Brewing Equality With the Beer Babes Family appeared first on The BC Ale Trail.

The May long weekend is the undisputed unofficial start of the summer in BC. In the Okanagan, it’s the date when old-timers deem it safe to plant out tender seedlings, restaurants and breweries start to set up their patio seating, and the seasonal wineries and cideries open their doors for the summer season. It also seems to be the first major camping weekend for many, and while I prefer my accommodation to be a little more luxurious than a tent these days, the promise of warm sunny days ahead has me itching to go on an adventure. 

This “May Long” my husband Tom and I chose the West Kootenays to be the focus of our adventure. We know (and love) the popular destination of Nelson very well, but this time we wanted to explore a new area, so we opted to stay in Rossland, a little further south. 

Rossland is a city, but in name only, and all the better for it. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. This cute mountain town has a fascinating heritage that is reflected in the buildings and statues in the diminutive downtown area. The main street is lined with beautiful heritage buildings, all of which have plaques detailing their history. For a self-confessed history nerd like me, this was heaven; the stories give the town a sense of place and add to a sense of connection with the area. 

Rossland is known for its outdoor activities, with Red Mountain Ski Resort on its doorstep and over 200km of hiking and biking trails surrounding the town. Despite arriving in a snowstorm (I think someone forgot to tell Mother Nature that this was supposed to be the start of summer!), we had missed the ski season, but we were looking forward to exploring the trails with the dogs and rewarding ourselves with a well-earned beer afterwards.

Beer in Rossland means one thing…. the Rossland Beer Company. Founded in 2012 by two childhood friends, Petri Raito and Ryan Arnaud, this local hub is right in the heart of the town, both literally and figuratively. Petri told me that they both love Rossland, feeling lucky to have their business in this “little slice of paradise,” and this appreciation of the town is obvious in the brewery they’ve created. I’d been following the brewery’s social media pages prior to the trip and I love their close connection with the community. Their sponsorship of local athletes, promotion of other local businesses, collections for the food bank, and helping with maintenance of local trails all demonstrates a commitment to their hometown. This is clearly more than just a brewery. 

We visited the taproom on the Saturday evening of our stay, and it is exactly what a mountain town brewery should be — rustic, friendly and comfortable. The wooden décor echoes the forests that encompass the area, while the wall art showcases the local natural environment. Even the light fitting, which is made of skis, reflects the outdoorsy vibe of a mountain town. Don’t go there expecting the airs and graces of a fancy city bar; instead, you can expect to find a warm, welcoming space, where locals and visitors alike congregate to share stories and enjoy a beer together — a home from home. 

Tom and I settled down with a flight apiece and were delighted with the seven beers on tap that day. These are all well-crafted and delicious brews, suggestive of an experienced and talented brewer at work here. The Genuine Draft was a malty delight, while Uncle Vinny’s Cream Ale was as smooth as silk, with notes of vanilla.

The New Zealand Pilsner was faithful to the style with a fresh herbal, almost grassy taste, and the Best Day Ever had the characteristic flavours of an IPA, but was smooth, well-balanced, and accessible. My favourite had to be the Red Zeppelin Raspberry Wheat Ale, with all the distinctive flavour of a wheat beer combined with a subtle hint of raspberry — not too sweet, not too tart, but a delicious beer with fruit notes, rather than a fruit drink. We couldn’t leave without taking a few beers to share with friends back home, so we bought some cans of the sublime Green Jacket Pale Ale and a crowler of Uncle Vinny’s before bidding farewell.

Our home for the weekend was in the aptly named Happy Valley, right at the head of a vast trail network. We awoke on Sunday morning to a damp, misty day, but after two hours of hiking through lush forests, we were rewarded with the sun breaking through the clouds to reveal glimpses of mountain tops and spectacular scenery. 

It was still too early for a beer (even for us!) so we refuelled at The Alpine Grind Coffeehouse with freshly brewed coffee and the most divine scones I’ve ever tasted, before heading over to check out the Rossland Museum and Discovery Centre. 

The museum is on the Kootenay Rockies West Ale Trail, and when we looked around it became evident why — Rossland has a rich tradition of craft beer, and the museum has a whole exhibit dedicated to the business of brewing. The exhibit features a detailed history of the town’s breweries, artifacts including old barrels and taps, historical photos, and even a recreation of a bar. The highlight for me, however, was the wall of back-lit glass bottles, which included beer bottles from Victoria Brewing Company, alongside bottles from the pre-prohibition Rossland breweries. The museum is much more than beer though; it’s huge and covers Rossland’s fascinating history from the early gold rush boom years to the more recent incarnation of mountain sport resort town.

By the time we dragged ourselves away from the museum, lunch was fast approaching. The sun had now come out in full force and it was a beautiful day for a drive, so we set off along the Columbia River towards Salmo. Erie Creek Brewing was our destination and as we sat down to tasty pizzas and a couple of flights, we were very happy with our choice. 

Salmo is a tiny village with barely over 1000 residents, but in 2020 Colin and Lynn Hango saw the need for a community hangout and decided to open a craft brewery there. With a stage at one end of the tap room, posters advertising live music and open-mic nights, an inviting fireplace, and a foosball table, the vibe the Hangos have created at Erie Creek Brewing is certainly one of a welcoming local hub. 

The building that houses the brewery was once a bank, complete with a bank vault which has now been turned into a cozy snug — perfect for those snowy winter days. The website states that they have “No crazy brews, just easy drinkers that will leave you asking for another,” and that was reflected in the flights we sampled. There are no gimmicks here, just clean, refreshing crowd-pleasers, ranging from the crisp Victory Pilsner to the approachable Erie Mist IPA. Our favourite was Cold Waters Kolsch, and we left Erie Creek with a six-pack to enjoy in the hot waters of the spa later that evening.

Our time in the Kootenays was too brief to visit all the of breweries in the area, and we were disappointed to miss Trail Beer Refinery (this brewery is closed on Sundays and Mondays so plan accordingly if you’re thinking about visiting) and Tailout Brewing in Castlegar. Thank goodness for the well-stocked liquor store in Rossland then, which allowed us to sample a few beers from the other superb local craft breweries from the comfort of our vacation hot tub. We are already planning a return trip to visit these breweries in person, and maybe check out one of the numerous festivals that take place in the area during the summer. The Beer Goggles Craft Brew Festival, held at Red Mountain Resort on 6th July, was being advertised during our stay and certainly piqued our interest. Maybe that’s the weekend we should return.

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Is there such a thing as too much choice? Well, beer fans in the Okanagan certainly don’t seem to think so if the ever-flourishing brewery scene is anything to go by. Appetites for new breweries are as voracious as ever, and craft brewers continue to try to meet the demand.

As new breweries opened in the latter half of 2023, my husband Tom and I set off on a couple of road trips, eager to see what these new establishments had to offer.

Backroads Brewing Osoyoos

Many readers will be familiar with Backroads’ original location in Nelson where they’ve been serving award-winning pints since 2017. Their emergence on the Okanagan beer scene is a new development, however, as they opened their second venue in Osoyoos last summer. 

It was with great sadness that Osoyoos’ sole brewery, North Basin, announced its closure in May, and for a time it looked like this pretty town near the US-Canada border would be without a brewery. Fortunately, all was not lost when Backroads jumped on the opportunity to expand into this tourist hotspot. As huge fans of Backroads Brewing (in fact, all three of Nelson’s craft breweries are fantastic — if you haven’t already made the trip to this cool mountain town, you really should) we were delighted that they would be opening so close to our hometown of Summerland, and we wasted no time in making the drive down south to check them out.

We first visited Backroads Osoyoos in the summer of 2023. The location is perfect: right in the heart of this relaxed, summery town, with views over the lake and towards the mountains on the opposite shore. Backroads had sensibly opened almost immediately after their takeover of the brewery to make the most of the tourist season, and so the taproom was initially little changed from the North Basin days. It was such a glorious day that we opted to sit on the expansive patio that stretches along two sides of the building. 

There was definitely a summer vacation vibe that day; the sun was shining, the beer was refreshing, and the conversation flowed between the different groups of tourists who filled the tables. As expected from an established brewery like Backroads, the beer was great, both in terms of the range of different ales and lagers on tap and the quality of the brews. We chatted to several of the other customers and all were in agreement that this was a great addition to Osoyoos. In fact, one couple holidaying from the UK had been on their way to visit several wineries but had only made it as far as Backroads where they had settled in for an afternoon on the brewery patio instead. 

Once the peak tourist season had come to an end, Backroads took the opportunity to close for a short time in order to transform the interior more akin to the natural, cozy vibe they have going on in Nelson. We were keen to see what changes they had made and so took a second trip to the border town, this time in early January. This cold, grey winter afternoon couldn’t have been more different from the scorching August day of our first visit — it certainly wasn’t a patio kind of day this time, but the newly renovated taproom was warm and homey. Lots of natural wood softened the space while comfortable bar stools suggested a communal, convivial space. Sitting at the bar gave us the opportunity to chat with the barman, John, about all things beer-related, and we were soon joined by a local regular, Tommy, who called in for a growler fill and ended up staying for a couple of pints. 

Our two flights covered all eight beers on tap, which ranged from the deliciously light and malty El Dorado Golden Ale to a punchy Pale Ale and on to a couple of fruity IPAs that were both sophisticated and well-balanced. My favourite had to be the Kölsch, although it was nearly knocked off top spot by a deliciously coffee-ish stout that was brought out by the head brewer, Mike, just before we left. The brewery has several neat ideas such as the “hopmeter” on the taproom menu in place of the usual IBU number (a conscious decision to get away from often inaccurate preconceived ideas of the impact of the IBUs on the taste of the beer) and a locals’ mug club. Despite it being a dreary Sunday afternoon in early January, the bar was full, and it was encouraging to see so many people hanging out and enjoying the ambience, particularly in a town so driven by the summer tourist trade.

Buffalo Rouge Brewing

The opening of Buffalo Rouge in the summer of 2023 was highly anticipated by my husband and me. As life-long vegetarians, we could hardly wait for Canada’s first vegetarian brewery to open its doors. For us, their motto of “drink good beer, eat more plants” couldn’t have been closer to our hearts, and although red tape delayed the opening of the brewery, the wait was definitely worth it! 

This nano-brewery on the eastern edge of Kelowna’s brewery district was the brainchild of husband and wife team Liam Mitchell and Crystal Cain. The couple had previously run a popular food truck, The Wagon, which served all vegan and vegetarian food, and it was their dream to expand this business into a brewery. Their dream was realized in July, and of course, we just had to go on opening weekend. Our first impressions of this up-and-coming corner of town were very positive. It’s a creative little enclave with a beautiful plant and flower store on one side of the brewery and a tattoo artist across the courtyard. The taproom itself isn’t large, but on this sunny day, the garage-style doors had been flung wide open onto the patio, allowing the light to stream into the building. The staff couldn’t have been more welcoming and we were greeted like friends by everyone there. 

Licensing restrictions meant that the brewery was only able to serve flights of three in those early days, and initially, the taps were restricted to collaborations with other Kelowna breweries, but what collaborations they were! Buffalo Rouge really knocked it out of the park from day one with their Red Ryder, Munich Helles, and, our favourite, the Buffalo Barn: an apricot Saison made in collaboration with the wickedly talented Barn Owl Brewing. Of course, the food was almost as much of an attraction for us as the beer and again we were not disappointed. We were spoiled for choice with a creative and varied vegan menu and were delighted with our delicious lunches. This is not just food for vegans: the food here is so good that it would appeal to everyone — even the most hardened carnivore! 

This new little brewery had hit the spot on so many levels — great beer, fantastic friendly service, and funky decor (think Vegas meets the Wild West) — that we returned fairly frequently over the next few months. Since its opening, Buffalo Rouge has developed its own beers, extended its menu (the festive menu was something to behold), and started to host events such as a Live Music Series. We revisited them at Halloween and were delighted to find the taproom thronging with guests who were clearly enjoying the brewery as much as we did. New on tap for the spooky season were two sublime Saisons: the Gingerine, a mouthwatering dry-hopped ginger tangerine saison, and its cousin the Spooky Saison, a lively pumpkin-spice saison. 

The beers were perfectly balanced and showed a real sophistication for such a new brewery. Since then Buffalo Rouge has released numerous small-batch beers, such as the Old English, an oat stout, and the Second Breakfast beer-mosa, and we can’t wait to return to try their latest offerings.

Three Lakes Brewing

The newest kid on the Okanagan block, Three Lakes Brewing, proudly proclaims its motto: “Brewed by women, enjoyed by everyone.” Yes, Three Lakes is flying the flag for equality in what is traditionally a male-dominated industry. The three intrepid women who own and run the brewery are best friends Melanie Raby and Cathy van Kesteren, along with Melanie’s daughter Tara Raby who is in charge of the brewing. The idea for the brewery came together over a hike one day — an adventure that is now immortalized in one of their flagship beers, The Hike Pilsner. 

The brewery is situated in the north of the city, outside the usual brewery district, but in an area that is already home to a successful brewery, Wild Ambition Brewing, and is clearly booming with development. Next door to the brewery is the popular Two Donkeys Bakery, which offers European-style bread, pastries and sweet treats, and although Three Lakes doesn’t have its own kitchen, they do sell a variety of these delicious snacks to be consumed along with their beers. 

We visited on a wet Sunday afternoon, and although it was cold outside we were greeted with a warm reception. The taproom is split over two floors and creates the feeling of hanging out at a friend’s house. There are comfortable soft furnishings and sofas to lounge in, a pool table upstairs, and the walls are decorated with hundreds of photos of friends and family. The brewery is said to be inspired by the natural beauty and outdoor activities of the Okanagan region, and evidence of this is all around, from the photos in which the friends are hiking, canoeing, and skiing, to the tent and kayaks hanging from the high ceilings. 

There were three house beers on tap that afternoon, and each demonstrated a strong brewing confidence that belied their new status. The Hook, Line and Sinker IPA was assertive with hop-forward, grapefruit notes; the Lake Minded Lager was crisp with bold hop flavours; and the Barley’s Angel Ale was a robust seasonal barleywine. As their website says, “Lake life, camping, and craft beer… what could be better?”

With such different breweries offering such diverse experiences, I believe that you really can’t have too much of a good thing when it comes to craft breweries. Judging by the popularity of these new establishments, local craft beer enthusiasts agree with me, and the appetite for new breweries is still strong in the Okanagan. But the hospitality industry is a tough one and we have begun to see closures of wineries and restaurants in the area due to reduced footfall. So the onus is on us to support our breweries and help sustain them, particularly in the challenging winter months. With that in mind, I’d encourage you all to spend these chilly days — when it’s too cold to be outside anyway — cozying up in your local brewery or checking out new establishments like these in the Okanagan.

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Too often my husband, Tom, and I miss these delights as we travel through the Lower Mainland on our way to the coast or back to the Okanagan. So on this rainy weekend, we made it our mission to take the time to sample some of the breweries on offer in Langley.

As much as I try to deny it, there’s no getting around the fact that the Canadian winter is looming over the horizon. In fact, this adventure coincided with the equinox, heralding the official start of fall. Although I’m a sun-seeking, patio-sipping summer lover to the core, there is something undeniably comforting about the prospect of cozying up by the fire with a tasty ale. Come to think of it, my favourite style of beer is a Marzen, which is traditionally drunk in the fall, and the Oktoberfest brewers are definitely on to something, holding their traditional beer fest in early October. So really, all the signs were there to indicate that there would be no better way to spend this chilly, wet, first day of fall than to embrace the change of the seasons and warm myself up by sampling a brewery or two.

Our first stop was Camp Beer Co, a brewery that had been on our must-do list for quite some time. This relatively new brewery already has an impressive list of accolades, winning the coveted BC Ale Trail Best Brewery Experience in 2022, while also claiming the title of Best Tasting Room in BC in the Growlies in the same year, and most recently being crowned Best Brewery in BC in the 2023 Growlies. These prestigious awards have inevitably created quite a buzz around the brewery and we were keen to see if Camp lives up to the hype.

First impressions were certainly promising as we were immediately greeted by Taproom Manager Sam Jennings who couldn’t have been more welcoming, giving us a tour around the taproom before settling us down with a couple of inviting beer flights. The taproom is really a series of rooms, and Camp has certainly hit the mark in creating distinctive “camping” spaces within a brewery building. The area around the bar is light, airy and sociable, with a canoe hanging from the ceiling above a communal table, while the ceiling height is lowered in the “snug” and armchairs nestle up to a roaring fire, conjuring a cozier, more private, cabin-in-the-woods atmosphere.

The patio, where we opted to sit, would obviously be fantastic in the summer, with its music stage and plentiful seating, but on this dreary day, it had been enclosed and was warmed by several campfires, allowing customers and their dogs to get an outdoor experience while remaining warm and dry. In fact, I got the impression that the patio winterizing was done as much for the benefit of the dogs as for their owners — dogs here are not only welcome but encouraged, and the numerous wagging tails told a story.

It was lunchtime when we arrived, and Camp does a fun selection of camping-style snacks and meals, such as smokies and s’mores (how good do the Black Forest S’mores with double chocolate cookies, cherry pie filling, whipped cream, chocolate fudge and chocolate crumb sound?!). We opted to share the Tin Can Nachos, which were loaded with different cheeses, sour cream and pico de gallo, and brilliantly topped with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Appetites sated, we got down to the real business of beer tasting and, wow, we were spoilt for choice with a delicious range of top-notch beer. Every beer we tried was sensational, but the highlight for me was the Summer Camp Belgian Single, with its delicately balanced saison-style flavours, while for Tom it was the juicy Cloud Cover Hazy IPA. Neither of us are huge sour fans, but we were won over by the Forager Peach Apricot Sour which was sublime — refreshing with gentle, distinctive, stone fruit flavours.

Camp certainly pays attention to the details, and their tasting notes were by far the best we’ve ever come across. Not only do you get detailed playing-card-style tasting notes for each beer in your flight (and, yes, you’re encouraged to keep them for future reference), but each card has a QR code which takes you to a short video of the Camp brewers giving a bit of background about the beer. It’s great to see “behind the scenes” in this way and really added to our tasting experience.

It’s clear to see why Camp Beer Co. is such a hit — the atmosphere was warm and friendly, with Sam welcoming customers by name and taking the time to sit with his guests (young and old, human and canine) despite it being a busy Saturday afternoon. The food was delicious, the decor stylish and comfortable, and the beer outstanding. Even the merchandise was irresistible; we came away with a hoodie and toque, and bandanas for our pups. It was a wrench to leave, but as the signpost by the door clearly showed, there were a lot of other breweries in Langley that required our attention. 

Next on our tour was a visit to Locality Brewing. Admittedly, this farm-based brewery with its expansive outdoor picnic areas is probably best visited on a sunny day, but having fallen in love with their beer and “field to glass” ethos at a couple of beer festivals, we couldn’t visit Langley without calling in. In any case, we’re hardy Brits and it takes more than a bit of rain to put us off our beer!

Locality is very much a working farm, growing the barley and hops that are then brewed on site, so after a welcome greeting from the farm dog, we crossed the farmyard to the brewery building. The tasting room inside is small and functional, selling produce such as the farm’s honey as well as beer, but the real beauty of this place is in its location, with outdoor tables dotted amongst the hops and overlooking a serene lake. The rain was fairly heavy by this point in the day, but sections of the outdoor seating are under cover, so having selected our flights, we were able to sip our beer in this tranquil haven, protected from the inclement weather.

The beers themselves are varied in style, from the core beers such as the Lost Hazy Pale Ale and the exquisite Black Tea Lager (our favourite) to the more experimental rotational brews such as the newly released Cranberry Enchantment and the Ginger Saison. Even on a grey day, the beauty of the setting was undeniable and it was hard to believe that this rural idyll was so close to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Dead Frog Brewery, in the north of Langley, was our next port of call and was very much at the opposite end of the spectrum in terms of its vibe. Where Locality was rural tranquillity, Dead Frog screamed urban fun. This weekend happened to be Dead Frog’s 5th birthday (in their current location; the brewery actually dates back to 2006), and the party was in full swing when we arrived, adding to the playful atmosphere imbued in the brewery. The tasting room was festooned with balloons and streamers, an awesome live musician entertained the guests with songs by the likes of the Foo Fighters, and both the tasting room and patio were thronging with beer-enthusiast party-goers.

Dead Frog celebrates the wild and wonderful in its beers, with unusual brews such as its flagship Nutty Uncle Peanut Butter Stout, its range of Imperial Warhead Sours, and the newly released Jellies Jelly Donut Ale. The beers are more than just novelties though, and we happily tucked into a range of beers that included some serious IPAs and a classic farmhouse saison. We were tempted to stay and enjoy the festivities for longer, but with so many breweries on offer in Langley we made the decision to head to the next brewery on the list, just a few minutes away.

Smugglers’ Trail Caskworks is known for its traditional British-style cask-conditioned ales, and having grown up drinking pints of brown ale in pubs around the north of England, this was another brewery we couldn’t pass by. There was a lineup when we arrived, indicating the popularity of this award-winning brewery, but as there were only two of us, we were able to squeeze in at the bar. This is a grown-up brewery, with a sleek and stylish taproom interior, and an air of sophistication. The curved bar with the giant wheel rising above it echoes the industrial heritage of England, while the mountains that are reflected in the panelling around the taproom and mirrored in the merchandise pay homage to the brewery’s home in Western BC. The beers are sophisticated too. We ordered two flights and were impressed with the range of beers on offer — not just the famous cask-conditioned ales, but everything from the complex Captain Stone Lager to the assertive Canoe Chase IPA, which was recently awarded gold at the Canadian Brewing Awards. The bartender did an excellent job of hand-pulling the cask ales (having spent some of my younger years “pulling pints” in traditional pubs in England, I know this is much harder than it looks) and the Flaskers British Ale was a nostalgic, malty delight.

Having sampled an impressive 29 different beers by this point (don’t worry — we didn’t finish them all!) we were ready for a bite to eat and perhaps something a little lighter to drink at our final stop of the day. The Barley Merchant Taproom, with its extensive menu of 50 BC beers and ciders on tap, eight different BC wines, plus a dizzying array of BC craft spirits, whiskies and cocktails, was the obvious choice. This taphouse had come highly recommended to us by various friends and obviously has a great reputation as it was packed with a lively Saturday evening crowd by the time we got there. Luckily there were a couple of empty stools at the bar, and we were more than happy to take the opportunity to chat to the bartender, who also happened to be the beverage director. Josh brimmed with enthusiasm and was clearly passionate about all things related to BC brewing. His knowledge of the different breweries, cideries and craft distilleries throughout the province, was remarkable, and we chatted about many of the drinks on offer at the Barley Merchant, some of which we knew (the gluten-free Grey Fox from Kelowna for example) and many which we were keen to learn about.

With so much choice on offer here I decided to go rogue and order a cider flight, while Tom continued with the beer theme. Mind you, it wasn’t easy to select just eight beers and ciders out of the vast array on the menu. Knowing that we wouldn’t have time to visit all the Langley breweries on this trip we selected a fabulously malty (and seasonally appropriate) Marzen from Five Roads Brewing, a crisp Pilsner from Farm Country Brewing, and an outstanding Passionfruit, Orange and Guava cider from the Fraser Valley Cider Company that blew us both away. When the lady sitting next to us at the bar ordered an exquisite-looking Old Fashioned, I came very close to finishing off the evening with the delicious-sounding Black Moon Rising (a smoked rosemary gin Old Fashioned with vanilla, honey, and bitters). But, with the knowledge that we had a long drive in the morning, sense prevailed and we reluctantly left the cozy taphouse to head back to our hotel. 

The sun rose on Sunday morning, ushering in a beautiful autumnal day. Coincidentally, the diner that I’d picked out for breakfast happened to be right next door to Farm Country Brewing and as we peered through the windows it was clear that we would need to return to Langley soon to try out the other breweries (Farm Country Brewing, Trading Post Brewing, Five Roads Brewing, and Brookswood Brewing, as well as the Fraser Valley Cider Company)…..And I am definitely returning for that Black Moon Rising one day soon.

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All you have to do is collect stamps from six of the participating locations and then enter your completed tasting passport in the draw for a chance to win.

When we emigrated from the UK six years ago, we asked friends from all around Canada where we should choose to live. Their response? The Okanagan. And how right they were! It really is hard to beat summer in the Okanagan Valley. Don’t get me wrong, winter here is awesome too with great skiing and cozy breweries to warm up in, but it is the summer when the area truly comes into its own. So, it is a very happy coincidence (or maybe good planning on the part of the BC Ale Trail?) that this year’s Kelowna & West Kelowna Tasting Passport coincides with the start of patio season. With an ever-growing number of craft breweries in the Okanagan, this is the perfect opportunity to check out new breweries, revisit old haunts, and soak up those rays on the newly opened patios.

It was another fortuitous twist of fate that resulted in my husband and I having an unexpected Thursday off work, on the very day that temperatures across the valley suddenly leapt into the mid-20s and breweries across Kelowna threw open their patio doors. So, we seized the opportunity of a child-free afternoon of beer tasting and set off towards Kelowna’s brewery district to start collecting our six stamps, with our faithful brewery hound in tow.

1st Stop: Rustic Reel Brewing

We arrived in Kelowna at lunchtime, so our first port of call had to involve a bite to eat. My husband and I are both vegetarian, admittedly not the easiest customers to please, but Rustic Reel Brewing always has the most innovative and delicious vegetarian food on offer, so we made a beeline to their patio. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit Rustic Reel yet, this is one brewery you can’t miss. They have it all: a mouth-watering beer selection, outstanding food, stylish décor, and a fabulous dog-friendly patio, with huge garage-style doors that open to connect the taproom with the outside world. Lunch there is always exceptional, and Thursday’s dishes of gnocchi and a kale and brussel sprout salad did not disappoint. The sunshine demanded a summery lineup in our beer pairing, and we had a great number of lighter beers to choose from. The highlight for me was the Raspberry Hibiscus Sour — a tart and refreshing number which is so packed full of raspberry flavours that it screams summer — while my husband was blown away by the Hazy IPA, which has now become one of his current favourite beers. The fact that we eventually left Rustic Reel laden with cans of our new favourite beers speaks volumes. 

Hilariously, not only were we offered flights, but so too was Rufus, our canine companion. He very happily tucked into his selection of tasty treats (and a tennis ball) while we savoured the beer. He is a connoisseur of breweries, but this is the first time that he has had his own flight!

2nd Stop: Unleashed Brewing

Seeing as we had our four-legged friend along for the ride, we decided that the next visit really had to be Unleashed Brewing — the self-proclaimed “most dog-friendly craft brewery” in Kelowna. Dogs certainly are at the heart of the operation here, with the beers all named after dogs and some awesome canine branding. Canine companions are not only welcome on the patio at Unleashed, but they are the first brewery in BC to be approved by Interior Health to allow dogs in the taproom. This is fantastic on those cold winter days when a patio is less than appealing, but similarly, as the thermometer climbs and the patio becomes too hot for those wearing fur coats, the taproom offers a cool sanctuary. The hospitality offered to pampered pooches in the taproom really is top-notch, with doggy beds, water bowls, “beer” and snacks, and even a little fire hydrant on offer to make them feel at home (I’m fairly certain they are discouraged from “using” the hydrant though). There is a wide selection of beers to choose from and a brand-new Lavender Honey Ale (Mystical Manu) has just been released. Our favourites had to be the deliciously malty All Dogs Go To Heavenweizen, and the London Dog Special-tea Ale which is sweet and crisp with unmistakable hints of vanilla and Earl Grey tea.

Our next destination was just a few streets away, so after sticking a photo of Rufus on the wall of wigglebutts, we said our goodbyes and strolled on over.

3rd Stop: Vice & Virtue Brewing

Vice & Virtue is another brewery that we had not visited for some time, and as soon as we stepped over the threshold we kicked ourselves for not returning sooner. The small taproom is light, bright and welcoming, as was our host Jacob who had that genuine gift of making all his customers feel special. We were thoroughly spoilt for choice with the beer menu, so simply had to go with two flights, and what a great selection of beers they were! My husband’s top pick was the Brave New World NEIPA which was a juicy, tropical delight, while I favoured the Love Potion Raspberry Berliner Vice with its big punchy, raspberry flavours.  We could very happily have stayed there all evening, drinking in the sunshine and enjoying the funky tunes on the patio (apparently it was trivia night there later too) but unfortunately, real life (and parental responsibilities) beckoned, so we reluctantly tore ourselves away with sincere promises of returning very soon.

Buoyed by the fantastic experience we’d had at Vice and Virtue, we decided to stick with the theme of revisiting breweries that we had previously rather neglected for our second day of stamp collecting. So, minus the dog this time (it was too hot for a patio even for our little sun worshipper) we set forth to The Hatching Post.

4th Stop: The Hatching Post

Set amongst the fancy wineries that overlook the lake in West Kelowna, The Hatching Post saloon is immediately recognizable as a beer-lover’s refuge. The saloon building looks like it has stepped straight out of a John Wayne movie, and the Western theme continues inside, with saloon doors leading into an opulent Western bar. We had visited The Hatching Post on its opening day, just over a year ago, and were impressed even then by how slick the operation was, but today’s visit showed just how much the brewery has developed with a year of experience under its belt. With eight beers on tap, there was something to appeal to everyone, from the light, refreshing but packed-with-flavour Lager, to a couple of IPAs which would please the most ardent hop-heads. Our clear favourites today were the Black Sunday, an American Wheat ale with deliciously citrusy flavours (a patio crusher if ever there was one) and the Parlour Tricks, a NEIPA that packed a punch but with a soft mouthfeel and lack of bitterness.

The brewery also boasts a smokery and the plates of smoked meat emerging from the kitchen would be heaven to the meat eaters in the crowd (the couple sitting next to us confirmed that the “burnt ends” were amazing). It was also nice to see that vegetarians have been carefully considered too with a selection of delicious-sounding plates on offer. We stuck with the smoked beer nuts (which come as a tasty side on the tasting flight) this time though, and after picking up a couple of bottles to take home (packaged in very cool Western-style bottles of course), we continued on our way.

5th Stop: Barn Owl Brewing

Barn Owl Brewing, in the Mission area of Kelowna, is a little out of the way and so is sometimes overlooked by those heading to the brewery district, but it really is worth the short detour. This is our go-to Kelowna brewery in winter as the taproom nestled in the rafters of the historic 1920s Surtees Barn is the coziest we’ve found anywhere in Canada (a bold claim I know, but one we’re sticking with), and their Vanilla Chestnut Ale is my favourite winter sipper. In the past, the brewery has been rather stymied by its lack of outdoor space for the summer months, but no longer. The new acquisition of an on-site bakery means that Barn Owl has been able to expand its patio, as well as its food and drink menu. On this sunny Sunday afternoon, bikers and dog walkers thronged happily in the sunshine, sipping beers and coffees, while live music drifted outside from the musician who entertained the shade seekers inside.

This brewery is clearly beloved by the locals in the area, and for good reason. With an impressive 16 beers on tap (even more astounding when you see the tiny size of the brewing area) there really is something for everyone here. With so many beers on offer, we decided that we really should do two flights here (totally altruistically of course) and selected a beautiful array of colourful summer sippers. The star of the show for us was the Casey Clarke Show Kolsch which was packed with fruit aromas and had a delicate sweetness to it, while the tart Genesis Raspberry Wheat Ale also deserves a special mention. While we were there, brewery owners Gary and Tim could be seen chatting amicably with their guests — their appreciation of their loyal customers was clearly evident, and their love of the place was both obvious and contagious. 

6th Stop: Shore Line Brewing

With time ticking on, we dragged ourselves away from Barn Owl and on to our final destination of the day. Shore Line Brewing, as the name suggests, is located right on the shores of Lake Okanagan and has arguably the best views of any patio in Kelowna. The bright, stylish taproom has seven core beers on offer, ranging from the light, crisp Lochy Lager to some heavily hopped IPAs, plus a rotating seasonal brew which today was the Birdie Juice, a Citrus Blonde Ale bursting with grapefruit and lime flavours. Coming soon are the Watermelon Kolsch and the 360 Pineapple Hazy which I definitely need to try once they’re released — a good excuse for a return visit. At 5 p.m. the patio was beginning to fill up with people needing refreshment after a gruelling day on the beach, and the atmosphere was buzzing.

By this point, we were feeling decidedly snacky, and the delicious tempeh tacos we ordered complemented our flights superbly.  Looking out at the lake from the Shore Line patio was the perfect way to end the weekend and remind us of how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful area. It was remarkable how easy it was to complete our tasting passport in a couple of afternoons, and we have barely scratched the surface of the craft beer scene in Kelowna & West Kelowna. Maybe we should be aiming to complete one passport per weekend throughout May — now that would be fun!

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