Showing posts with label railcar brewing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label railcar brewing. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Railcar Brewing to sell bottles through the ANBL


(Florenceville-Bristol, NB) - Railcar Brewing will have a couple of their beers hitting the shelves at ANBL stores in the next few days. Look for Artisan Brown 5.5% ABV and Café Buzz Porter 5.5% ABV in select stores in 500 ml bottles. They will be initially in 5 stores and will be followed by their Red on a permanent basis and four seasonals to follow.

Friday, September 4, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - September 4, 2015



Welcome to the September 4th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Big Axe Brewery has released Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Ale. They say it is a delicious light brown ale with red hues and an aroma of strawberry ganache. They brewed it with a mixture of dark crystal malts and a great amount of toasted wheat to add a bit of complexity. A moderate amount of hops add a mild, fruity hop aroma that blends extremely well with caramel notes produced from Carabohemian malt. They used 10 lbs of strawberries from Hoyt's and some freshly picked rhubarb to create the Pie.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie weighs in at 5.5% ABV and has a very mild 22 IBUs.

Hammond River Brewing is currently brewing the first wet hopped Harvest Ale batch of 2015. Lots of fresh hops grown right there at HRB will be added

Railcar Brewing Company says CSB time is now and available to purchase until the end of September. There are three levels $125, 250 and 500, each with great deals attached.

The first Fredericton Cider Festival will be on Saturday, October 24th. Brought to you by those behind the Fredericton Craft Beer Festival, the afternoon event will be held at Brewbakers in downtown Fredericton, and will feature unlimited tasting (4 oz pours) of up to 30 different ciders. With several local craft cideries attending as well as other big brands, there will be plenty of different offerings to sample! There are two ticket options: regular tickets $56.50 will get you a tasting glass and unlimited pours from 1-4 pm, while a limited number of VIP tickets $65.00 will allow for early entry at noon, plus a special information session on cider production. The event will be held outdoors on Brewbakers' partially-covered deck; a small food menu from the restaurant will also be available for purchase. Attendees can expect to see some extra-special products at the fest, quite-possibly including New Brunswick's first exposure to cask cider. Tickets available now on eventbrite. 

I was lucky enough to attend to great events in Moncton last night. I was at Pump House Brewing's production facility for this years Stone Fire Ale's kick off. As they did last year they dunked super heated rocks into the wort to create the unique flavors. The brewer tells me he change the recipe this year by switching up some malts to work better he hopes with the process. They plan on producing 4000 bottles again this year in the flip-top bottles. 
I also went to Flying Boats Brewing's launch at Laundromat Expresso Bar. Brewer/owner Marc Melanson saw all three of his kegs emptied in an hour and twenty minutes. The S-55 Special Mission Pale Ale (5.9% ABV 43 IBUs) and Empress Irish Red Ale (5.5% ABV 20 IBUs) were both great. Look for these beers in Moncton, Shediac and Sackville areas.

Garrison Brewing released its Tri-collaboration yesterday at Stillwell and the Beergarden. Not So Gentle Tickle IPA is a 7.0% ABV and 55 IBUs beer made with whole leaf Amarillo, Citra and Columbus hops in the kettle, whirpool and fermenter . It is described as having “a bold hop flavor with juicy, citrusy and fruity aspects". It is available for a limited time at the brewery in 650 ml bottles.

Propeller Brewing ‏noted that there was a very familiar and special aroma coming from their Brewhouse recently. Pumpkin Ale is on the way.

Unfiltered Brewing is releasing DOA (Double Orange Ale) today. It is a Citra SMaSH (single malt and single hop) Double IPA hits the taps @unfilteredbrews Friday at noon. Greg Nash says it contains NO oranges, it does, however, contain a boatload of citrus-y hop flavour and just the slightest hint of malt sweetness. It is a 7.5% ABV and 100+ IBU beer.

FirkinStein Brewing of Bridgewater says they will have beer very soon. I hope to meet with them in the next week or two to get all the details for you.

Staying with new brewery news, High Tide Brewing is opening a 15 BBL brewery in Truro. They are currently looking for a Head Brewer. I was talking to the owner and said he will meet with me next month to release details.

Thanks for checking out Maritime Beer Report, have a great long week end and as always enjoy responsibly.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - June 12, 2015



Hello and welcome to the June 12th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Congrats to Maritime Breweries who won medals at ‪the 2015 Canadian Brewing Awards. PEI Brewing Company won Gold in the Brown Ale category for their Gahan Iron Bridge Brown. Red Rover Brewing Company also won Gold for Cider with Herbs/Spices with their Experimental Brew - Fire. Muwin Estate Wines  got Gold in Specialty Ciders for their Bulwark Gold Traditional Craft Cider. Tatamagouche Brewing captured a Bronze for German Style Kolsch with North Shore Lagered Ale. Garrison Brewing also got a Bronze for Barley Wine with Ol’ Fog Burner. Lastly Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault captured a Bronze in European Style Lager  with La Kedgwick. Congrats to all the brewers.

PEI Brewing Company says Island Red is now available in ‪‎Nova Scotia‬ at select NSLC locations. Let me know where you see it. 
They also say Vic Park Hop Sessions brew with the Citra hop variety is on tap now at the brewery - limited quantity - once it's gone, it's gone. This is a 5.7% ABV beer.

Upstreet Craft Brewing offered their first 50 memberships to their Mug Club this week and the went really fast. There is a waitlist to get yours when the start selling again. Their website is live now with beer listings and their first 18 tap accounts. 

Big Axe Brewery's Taproom grand-opening and belated 1 year birthday celebration is tomorrow June 13th at 1 PM. Big Axe taproom will be serving craft ales, cider and mead, the Southern Ukrainian grill  will be open from 5-7 PM and Julio's Garage playing 8 to 10 PM.

Hammond River Brewing says Blueberry Ale has returned this summer. From HRB "Brewed with all real Blueberries, this is one tasty and refreshing beer for the patio!" It is currently on tap at Saint John Ale House, Barrel's Head, and Bourbon Quarter.

Railcar Brewing says it is pleased to announce that in two weeks they will be offering bottles to go for sale at the brewery. Their IPA and Grapefruit Pale Ale will be available next weekend in bottles at the brewery. Listings submitted for Pale Ale and IPA to hit ANBL shelves soon. 
Railcar will be tapping a special keg of Peanut Butter Chocolate Porter tomorrow at noon. Only one keg available get your growler filled ASAP.

A brewery I heard about a couple of weeks ago in the Shediac area went on social media this week. Flying Boats Brewing launched a facebook page this week. They say they are working on the listings and recently kegged a 7.2% ABV Black IPA.

Garrison Brewing Company has their new brewery launch celebration tomorrow at the Back Lot Bash, tickets are still available. Also Seaport Beer Fest are now on sale, this is always a sell out so get them early.

Last week end I helped brew an Imperial Red at Rockbottom Brewpub with the Ladies Beer League. Look for Fizzgig coming to their taps in July.

Looks like after delays Stillwell's Beer Garden on the Halifax waterfront opens today. There was some negative press out this week but I for one think it will be a good addition to the waterfront area.

A little light this week. Thanks to Monica at Lion & Bright for the kind words and support of the blog. Until next week enjoy responsibly.



Friday, May 1, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - May 1, 2015



Hello and welcome to the May 1st edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

The Big Axe Brewing and Hammond River Brewing collaboration has a name. Ask for Two Rivers India Black Ale when it hits the bars.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault have a new beer out today. La Kedgwick pilsner is now available at the Brewtique, next week at ANBL growler stations and this summer in bottles. 

Railcar Brewing is hosting He Said Beer She Said Wine on Saturday, May 23 at 7:00 PM. Join Brewer Mitch Biggar and his wife Sarah Nicholson as they pair 4 appetizers with a beer and a wine. You get to choose which is better and who wins this husband vs wife throw down. Tickets in advance due to food prep. $20.00 at the brewery.

Rare Bird Craft Beer has a Red Ale coming out on Monday but some NSLC stores put it out early so you are not seeing things.

Tatamagouche Brewing, Big Spruce Brewing & Propeller Brewing – have announced a one-off co-release to mark the upcoming inaugural Nova Scotia Craft Beer Week. Cerberus American IPA is a 7% ABV organic ale with the following description:
Cerberus is the 3 headed hellhound of Organic American-style India Pale Ales. Abundantly bitter and deeply aromatic, Cerberus combines late addition Centennial, Amarillo, Simcoe and Zythos hops in copious, lip-smacking quantities for a balanced complexity that will have you craving more. Cerberus will be released on May 9th, and will be available in a limited run of 650 ml bottles, as well in growlers at the three participating breweries.

Big Spruce Brewing is introducing the first ever lager in our brewery's history, She's Maibock. They added the zest of 40 lemons to the boil, and then again dry hopped this beer with lemon zest. It is 6.1% ABV and 30 IBU.  Available now at our brewery, and also at Stillwell, The Stubborn Goat, Lion & Bright, The Townhouse, and Governors.

Boxing Rock Brewing has released Sessionista 2015 and is what they like to call a "Fractional IPA". It's still bold, and malty, but it's also aromatic and hoppy. The first thing that hits you is that great nose of floral hops. Think lemon blossom, orange, and tropical fruit. Then flavours of biscuit, roasty caramel and toasted bread on the palate backed up by a tropical fruity hop middle with just the right amount of bitterness and finishing with a piney citrusy blast. It weighs in at a slightly higher 4% ABV than last years.

Good Robot Brewing released their opening beers for next week, First up is Tom Waits for No One,Stout. Available on tap at The Brooklyn Warehouse and in 64-oz growlers and 32-oz grunters beginning on Saturday, May 9th. Goseface  Killah Gose is the second beer in our lineup. Available on tap at The Wooden Monkey Restaurant, The Auction House and 2 Doors Down and in 64-oz growlers and 32-oz grunters. They are also looking for a retail clerk, want to work in NS newest brewery, drop a resume over. 

Hell Bay Brewing Company says their Dark Cream Ale is coming Monday May 4th to an NSLC near you.

The Nook and Cranny is asking you to "Name That Beer". They are excited to announce that one of new brewed onsite Nook and Cranny beer will be a Black IPA. And they want you to name it. Put your suggestion on facebook and the winner will get a $25 food voucher and one of their new N and C brewpub hats.

Sea Level Brewing announced their new seasonal, Acadian Cross Extra Pale Ale. 260 years ago this September more than 2000 Acadians were expelled from Grand Pre. The deportation cross was erected to commemorate the tragedy of the expulsion in 1755. It was brewed with Maritime Malt, and fermented with California ale yeast. Hopped with the Apollo hop, and dry-hopped twice in fermenter and once in serving tank. This is an unfiltered. 5.5% ABV. Available now in kegs and coming soon in cans and growlers.

Thanks for joining me again this week, until next time enjoy responsibly. 

Friday, April 17, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - April 17, 2015

Hello and welcome to the April 17th edition of the Maritime Beer Report. 

I love beer and I love food trucks, Upstreet Craft Brewing decided to follow other breweries and marry the two. They are looking for food trucks serving interesting locally inspired food to park at Upstreet Craft Brewing. Whether you, or someone you know, is currently looking for a space or looking to relocate to a new high traffic location, please contact them. 

Big Axe Brewery has their popular Maple Wheat Amber Ale available now. Brewed with 100% pure maple sap provided by Stone Family Maple Products from the historical Pokiok Sugary. Big Axe also turned one this week. They would like to invite everyone to celebrate with them in June,with the opening of our new Tap Room! 

Hammond River Brewing repeated as Gold People Choice Award at Saint John Beer Fest. Shane has a lot of hardware for a small brewery.

Picaroons Traditional Ales reminds people to send their high-res cat pictures in to their melonhead contest, deadline is one week away on April 24th. Dooryard Summer Wheat Ale is due to be released on Earth Day, April 22nd, look for it in all the usual spots. Picaroons decided to jump on the "ISA" train and have just finished brewing The Brick ISA, Imperial Scotch Ale that is. It is a low-hopped malt-forward brew with fruity esters all the while being blanketed by a subtle smokiness and alcoholic warmth. It is now on tap at the Brewtique in Downtown Fredericton while supplies last‬ 

Railcar Brewing Company is having a Craft Beer and Chocolate Pairing on Saturday, May 9 at 6:00pm in the tap room. Detail on facebook.

Trail Way Brewing Company seems to have a never ending new beer releases. They have a Black Hops One Black IPA they have kegged. The East Coast Beer Nerds have got credit for naming it. 

Big Spruce/ North Brewing/ Uncle Leos's/ Wrought Iron Brewing jointly brewed British IPA this week. The batch will be delivered to the "Race The Kegs" NS Craft Beer Week event in Halifax by sail boat. It was brewed with organic Pale Anglais micro malted barley from Malterie Frontenac, and heavily hopped with East Kent Goldings hop.

More details on the Boxing Rock Brewing and The Ladies' Beer League International Women's Day collaboration brew. Cinnamon Spin is a Robust Porter with a pile of cinnamon and molasses. Boxing Rock says it is "Big, dark, malty and roasty, with notes of coffee, chocolate, with the teensiest bit of fruitiness in the background, this is everything a Robust Porter should be, including its 6.5% ABV strength. We added two big forward features to this palette. Cinnamon and molasses. The combination is quite complimentary of the porter, and we think it's a winner." Because this beer was brewed in observance of International Women's Day, Boxing Rock are donating a portion of the profits from this beer to the Shelburne County Women's Fishnet bursary program and the Halifax Sexual Health Centre. It is going to be launched at Stillwell Beer Bar on Saturday April 18, at 6:30 pm. with bottles bottles and growlers available in the usual spots

North Brewing Company is expanding again with their biggest tank yet at 2400 L. This will help with better supply of their beers.

Propeller Brewing Company has a couple of beers out. They have a new One Hit Wonder called "All Tapped Out" with 6 hop varieties,  72 IBUs and  6.9% ABV. Available in growlers at the Prop Shops. They have a new seasonal out, Rye IPA hit the shelves at both Prop Shop locations this week in 650ml bottles and comes in at 6.8% ABV.

Rogues Roost release a new Double IPA this week. Not a lot of details but I am sure it is great.

Rudders Brew Pub released that Lager beer will be back on tap at Rudder's this summer. Lighthouse Lager 2.0 is in the fermenter and should be out in June.

Schoolhouse Brewery has a cool project planned. They say "We have seen our beer production from grain to glass now we are going to see our beer go from field to glass." The Southfield project says "one field one beer". They are using a two acre field to produce barley and hops for an authentic Bluenose beer.

Tatamagouche Brewing Company also expanded this week by adding more tanks in time for summer.

New brewery alert in New Brunswick, Scared Men Brewing is now getting financing together and will give more details this summer. They have a fundraiser going on Friday, May 15 at 7:00pm at the Pub Down Under in Saint John, New Brunswick. More details soon.

News for the waterfront, Stillwell Beergarden will be opening around the end of May to provide beer and food with a Nova Scotia angle. Look for details to come forward over the next month.

There are all kinds of events popping up for Nova Scotia Craft Beer Week, look for a wrap up in two weeks of all the events I can find.

That is all for now, until next time enjoy responsibly.

Friday, March 27, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - March 27, 2015



Hello and welcome to the March 27th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Upstreet Craft Brewing is looking for your help. They say they want to show the world how wise, quirky, insightful and hilarious Islanders are by printing “Islandism’s” under the cap of every beer they bottle and sell. They are calling it #UnderTheCap and they need you to help make it happen. Here’s how it’s going to work:
1) Dig deep in your brain to come up with the best Island phrases, advice, jokes, quirks or quotes you know. Try and keep it short.
2) Share your “Islandism” by commenting on Facebook or Instagram, or Tweet us using #UnderTheCap.
3) They will filter through the submissions and pick the best 250 to be featured #UnderTheCap.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault are commemorating, in their special way, the old Lancaster Bomber that's been an icon at the Québec-New Brunswick border for over 50 years. The Lanc will be moved to a museum in Alberta this summer. The "special edition" beer is a marvelous märzen, an amber lager brewed with a different type of yeast usually used by the brewers. The "Lancaster KB882" will be available in limited quantity at the Brewtique as of  March 30th. It will also be available in select NB Liquor growler filling stations over coming weeks.

Hammond River Brewing was brewing the first summer seasonal, Hawaiian Pale Ale, brewed with fresh Pineapples. They also brewed season's last batch of Breakfast Stout. Lots of Coffee goodness from Java Moose, Oats, and Cacao Nibs. Even threw in a few eggs to make it complete. The home smoked bacon will be added once fermentation is complete. Finally 16 kegs of Switchback Brown Ale was delivered to the KV ANBL store for Growler fill ups starting yesterday.

Picaroons Traditional Ales' newest beer experiment has landed, Kelp on the Way.This dark and smokey ale has been brewed with a generous helping of real organic sugar kelp harvested off of the shores near St. George, New Brunswick, by way of Dr. Thierry Chopin of UNB Saint John. The Kelp is heavily blanketed by a strong malt backbone of roasted and smoked malts, and balanced out by a gentle hopping of Fuggles and Goldings hops. At 22 IBUs, and 5.8% ABV, it's like drinking a dark, malty, smokey beer, right after a cool brisk swim in the Bay of Fundy. It is available exclusively The Brewtique for Growler fills in Downtown Fredericton while supplies last.

Railcar Brewing Company is a little ahead of schedule and tell me they will be open tomorrow, Saturday, from noon to 10 pm for growler fills. Right now they will only have their Artisan Brown Ale on tap with more beers coming next week. Tasting room should be open in a couple weeks pending inspections.

Big Spruce Brewing was busy zesting 80 lemons and making the first ever lager in Big Spruce history. They're brewing a lemon zest infused Maibock today. It will be boiled and dry hopped on fresh lemon zest. Bavarian 2206 lager yeast is at the ready. Look for it during ‎NS Craft Beer Week‬ in May.
Another beer they are working on is a kettle soured, raspberry wheat coming this summer. It is described as tarty, fruity, complex and every bit what they are intending to brew for a very select and limited summer release. Big Spruce worked with Parks Canada, the Bell Museum, and the upcoming summer production of The Bells of Baddeck: The Alexander Graham and Mabel Bell Story to develop this beer based on a recipe right out of Alexander Graham Bell's notes. Lastly the collaboration between Big Spruce Brewing and Barnone Brewing, Island Conspiracy DIPA has been released and is now available in limited release.

Boxing Rock Brewing Company has released its La Rive Du Sud again, available in 650ml bottles and 1L growlers at their retail store in Shelburne and available in 1L growlers at the Halifax Seaport Market on Saturday. The Next Chapter Rye IPA is available at select ANBL stores, you lucky NBers get it while it lasts.

Garrison Brewing Company says get ready to ‪pucker up. Their newest one off, a Cranberry Hibiscus Wit, coming in at 4% ABV with a wonderfully tart flavour. Available on tap at the brewery.

Granite Brewery released their India Pale Ale last week end in growlers from their brewery on Stairs Street. It is a British style IPA, hopped with Cascade and East Kent Goldings that is a 5.4% ABV and 45 IBUs beer.

Meander River Farm says that back by popular demand, their Smokey Chipotle Porter will be on tap this weekend alongside our new release Cider. Cider you say. Yes they are releasing Nova Scotia’s newest craft cider this weekend at their retail shop in Ashdale. From Meander River “Craft cider, like craft beer, is very popular right now. At the farm, we’ve always used the resources that are available to us seasonally; our pigs to till the land, our hops for the beer, and our lavender for our home and bath products. We live in an area of Nova Scotia where apples are everywhere, so why not make something delicious out of them?” said Alan Bailey, brewer and proprietor of Meander River Farm & Brewery.
The cider is made from a blend of valley apples and has clear Nova Scotia apple and citrus notes. It is dry with a crisp finish. 6.5% ABV. There are 200 litres of cider available for growlers fills from this small batch, the first of many.
A recent expansion in brewery tanks has allowed Bailey to not only brew more beer, but also add this
new cider to the product line. By bringing in two additional conditioning tanks, Meander River Farm & Brewery’s capacity has increased from 15,000 litres per year to 45,000 litres per year, approximately 330 litres per batch. Bailey will double production this coming summer season and triple production by summer 2017."

Propeller Brewing Company says another 4000 HL per year of capacity added to their Dartmouth brewery. Two new fermenters, both are 135 hectoliters (close to 40,000 bottles worth of beer each for perspective). The custom designed tanks were purchased from ABT (Allied Beverage Tanks Inc.) The new tanks will give them much needed additional capacity as they move into "beer drinking season". Growth in the craft beer segment has been exceptional in Nova Scotia over the past few years and it doesn't look like it's going to slow in the near future. Brands like their IPA and Organic Ale are leading the pack for growth. This addition was planned for when they moved into their new facility in 2013 and is the second tank addition, they added a 68 HL tank in 2014 since moving to their new home on Windmill Rd.    

Sea Level Brewing are having their first Tap Takeover at The Board Room Game Cafe from March 25-28. They have 7 beers, including the newest batch of El Rojo Diablo.

Speaking of Tap takeovers, on May14th Bad Apple Brewhouse will be bringing a whole lot of beer and a cask to Toms Little Havana. I will bring the tap list when I hear it.

The Townhouse Brewpub & Eatery says every Friday they add a second house-brewed beer to the tap list, Terry's English IPA is on the second hand-pump tonight.

Thanks for joining me again this week, have a fantastic week and until next time, enjoy responsibly.

Friday, March 20, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - March 20, 2015



Hello and welcome to the March 20th edition of the Maritime Beer Report. It is the first day of Spring and a lot of brewers and fans are sorely in need of some nicer weather.

Celtic Knot Brewing announced that the Tide and Boar has taken delivery of their latest one off. It's called Terminus and it's an IPA made exclusively with El Dorado hops. They will make an announcement when it hits the taps via their social media.

Hammond River Brewing is currently designing a new beer that will be debuting at the Saint John Beerfest next month. It's going to be a Rye IPA using El Dorado hops exclusively. More details as I get them.

Railcar Brewing Company says they we are behind schedule on construction and some new gear has been delayed. They are now looking at reopening April 1st with the need to ensure everything is installed and working correctly.

Trail Way Brewing Company says their Hugh-John Hops IPA has been delivered to the King Street Ale House and to 540 Kitchen & Bar. Look for this on tap in the coming days at both locations. They say they are very happy with the recipe and excited to add this IPA to the Trail Way Brewing rotation.

The Nook and Cranny in Truro is a hidden gem for craft brew fans had an exciting announcement this week, they are becoming a brew pub. From Nook and Cranny "We are bringing our love of craft beer to the next level by installing a brewing system on site. Our customers will soon be able to enjoy one of our three N&C Brew Co beers...and take a growler to go!". They are buying a system and that allows them to buy wort rather than starting with grains. The promise three taps, a light crisp one, a dark beer and a rotating seasonal with fresh products like blueberries, strawberries etc will be added.

Sea Level Brewing says the second batch of El Rojo Diablo DIPA is ready. They sold the first tank in record time so they whipped up a second batch. There is a difference though, they used different yeast and an Australian hop called Ella this time. Check it out in the usual spots.

Wrought Iron Brewing got the last of their tanks this week which I think was on schedule. This means if all goes well we may see beer from them in a month or so.

Boxing Rock Brewing was busy on Sunday brewing up the Ladies Beer League's next brew, Cinnamon Challenge Robust Porter . Although the LBL, didn't make it down due to weather they had some special help from Upstreet Craft Brewing to make the brew. More details coming soon.

Fredericton Craft Beer Festival announced the winners from from the voting. The prestigious Brewers Choice Award " Best of the Fest" goes to Hammond River Brewing. The Peoples choice awards, " Best of the Fest" award first place goes to Trail Way Brewing Company, second place to Hammond River Brewing and third place to Boxing Rock Brewing. Congrats to everyone and Lloyd says it was a very close race. That has to be without a doubt with all that great beer there.

Thanks for joining me again this week. I hope to see some of you at the NB craft dinner tomorrow in Moncton and until next time enjoy responsibly.

Friday, February 27, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - February 27, 2015


Hello and welcome to the Maritime Beer report for February 27th.

PEI Brewing Company is previewing their new spring doppelbock - Re-Animator. Conditioned for a few months, sweet, malty, and a bit of heat from the 8.2% ABV. On tap now in the brewery only for a short time.

Picaroons Traditional Ales has kicked off a new series of beers, brewed by, brewed for, and named after, it's staff. The first beer in the series is an easy drinking ale named "GRIFF", brewed by Picaroons' longest running staff member and brewer, Ryan "GRIFF" Griffith. It is a 4.8% ABV Pale Ale that's moderately hopped with Willamette hops and just a little bit of Fuggles hops giving it a nice and pleasant earthy tone. Every one of Picaroons' 30 staff members will have a chance to write and brew a recipe of their very own, with some assistance and guidance from head-brewer, Myles Mackenzie, and owner/operator/brewer, Sean Dunbar. Picaroons is encouraging it's staff to let the creative juices flow freely and to be as experimental as they would like.
GRIFF went on tap this week at the Brewtique in Downtown Fredericton, exclusively for Growler fills and while supplies last.
Also Picaroons' Maple Cream Ale will be back on Monday, tune in next week for more details.

The Pump House Brewery is releasing Biere de Garde, belgian saison, soon. It is their Gold medal winner from the 2014 Atlantic Canadian Beer Awards Gold Medal Winner. It will be bottling on next week and will be available in six packs. This is a strong 6.5% ABV and 15 IBUs beer.

The 1st Annual Railcar Brewing Home Brew-Off competition has more details for Maritime homebrewers. Participants will produce a batch of Scottish Export 14C  and the beer judged best overall will be scaled up to commercial size and released as a Railcar Brewing seasonal. Submission Entrants must be homebrewers from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick or PEI and cannot be produced on the premises of a commercial brewery. Beers will be judged according to BJCP 2014 Style Guidelines.

Red Rover Brewing Company are working on something a little special for Fredericton Craft Beer Festival with their friends at Big Axe Brewery. Want to find out more? They will be at our 1st Birthday Party tomorrow, and of course here next week.

Big Spruce Brewing were collaborating or is it conspiring this week with Don Campbell of Barnone Brewing in PEI. What they were conspiring up was an Imperial IPA. Look for details on this one soon.

Boxing Rock Brewing Company says they were able to find some more elusive hops for another, and possibly the last, batch of Unobtanium. It came out today at the bottle shops and brewery.

North Brewing Company has bottled its Gus' 65 M Blonde ale will be available Rockheads, Cristall and Harvest by tomorrow. They are also brewing up a secret brew with Bar Stillwell. Stillwell always seems to have great collaborations so this should be interesting.

Paddy’s Pub & Rosie’s Restaurant Wolfville are very excited to have won The Annapolis Valley Chamber Of Commerce Award for Best Bar/Pub/Lounge. Congratulations.

Sea Level Brewing has released El Rojo Diablo Double IPA. For this year’s Double IPA they have chosen a New Zealand hop called Waimea and it has intense aroma characteristics.  It has an ABV of 7.666% and a IBU of 88. 
Find it on Tap in Halifax at Bar Stillwell, Obladee Wine Bar, and Boardroom Game Café. In 355ml Cans at private stores. growlers filled in Halifax at Rockhead Wine & Beer Market and Harvest & Wines.

Tatamagouche Brewing Company says its RR#2 LAGER is back. Coming in at 4.9% ABV and hopped with Malagash grown Crystal and Mt. Hood hops! Light, floral, refreshing. Available in growlers.

The Moncton Beer League is partnering with Chef Matthew Pennell (Chopped Canada Champion) for a delectable 4-course menu of amuse bouche, appetizer, main, and dessert - each paired with a different NB beer, plus an additional welcome beer.  This is a 19+ event. Early bird tickets are on sale on now. 

Thanks for joining me again this week and until next time enjoy responsibly.

Friday, February 20, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - February 20, 2015


Hello and welcome to the Maritime Beer Report for February 20th.

The Gahan House has launched its second Home Brewer's Challenge. You have until February 27th to register and the closing date is May 15th. Get details on their facebook page.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault are brewing a brand new pale ale made entirely with malt from their neighbours and friends at Malt Broue in Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac. They say it is going to be ready in 3 weeks. Their diva was also busy recently brewing a maple brown ale with a few of her friends.

Hammond River Brewing's new beer has been tapped at Bourbon Quarter Restaurant & Bar. This is the winning beer from HRB's recent homebrew competition. It's a 7% ABV Winter Warmer, and due to the recent weather, the homebrewer has called it "F@‪#‎K‬ Winter". It's a deliciously spiced Winter Warmer so stop in for a pint of it.

Picaroons Traditional Ales says it is surprise beer time. Their latest brewing experiment at the Brewtique is a small batch of Scotch Ale. It is a 7.0% ABV full bodied ale that has plenty of roasted characteristics, that are all held together by an earthy Fuggles hop undertone.It is on tap at the Brewtique while supplies last.

The Pump House Brewery has released for a limited time Black Voodoo Ale, a smooth dark ale with a bite of a rattlesnake. In fact it is a blend of their 4 Alarm IPA and Muddy River Stout and will only be available through the end of the month.

Railcar Brewing Company will be closed until March 17th because they are on the move. Not far just across the street where they will be taking over the bottom floor of 2 Curtis Road underneath A.C. Sharkey's Pub. The new area will consist of a glassed in brewing area and a craft beer bar as well. More space will allow for more tanks as well. 

Boxing Rock Brewing Company has a new beer out. Wild Axe Bohemian Pilsener is 5.7% ABV made with our local lumberjacks in mind. It is a traditional bohemian pilsener, brewed exclusively with Saaz hops and fermented long and aged cold for a perfect pilsener taste. 
Boxing Rock brewed with Andrew "Esty" Estabrooks, former head brewer at Picaroons recently. The Next Chapter is a Rye IPA brewed with New Brunswick malt comes in at 6.3% ABV, This will be released at Fredericton Craft Beer Fest and released at ANBL. 

Garrison Brewing has partnered with Beer Thief, Newfoundland’s' special order beer club to create an exclusive brew - Imperial Chocolate Stout - especially for Canada's easternmost province. At 10% ABV, the Imperial Chocolate Stout was brewed big and bold for the time year and for Newfoundland’s craft beer fans.  Fans in Nova Scotia can also try this unique specialty brew in 650ml bottles starting this weekend either brewery fresh at Garrison Brewing or all four private stores.
Garrison is also releasing "This IS Radio Wheat!" for CKDU 88.1 FM's 30th birthday. A 4.6% ABV wheat beer at the brewery.
The first wave of judging is going on tomorrow for the Brew-off, hope is to narrow the 80 entries down to 12. 

Propeller Brewing Company has a couple of One Hit Wonder Series brews out. 6 More Weeks is an amped up Brown Ale is light bodied, rich in earthy, piny and spicy hop flavour. The dark malts used in this brew add a dash of roast characters that add a delicate creaminess. This beer is loaded with hop bitterness that doesn’t linger with plentiful hop aroma.  This is a 5.5% ABV 82 IBUs beer. Next up is Imperial ESB, is now available and is  6.2% ABV. Lastly the 2015 edition of their Irish Red is out today, now available at both locations in 650ml bottles.

Rock Bottom Brewpub has brought back its award winning Wreckoning - Russian Imperial Stout
Screams crème brûlée with roasted malt and dark fruit then quickly settles into an amazing complexity of tenacious flavours. Layer after layer; toffee, dried fruit, hops, vanilla, dark caramel and chocolate. Her luscious bouquet, soft mouth-feel, alcoholic warmth and silky legs will leave you callin' for more. Finishes with superb tannin balance. A strong 10.5% ABV and 100+ IBUs only available in 7&12 oz portions.

Rudder's Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub is closed for renovations for a week of two, watch here for updates.

Schoolhouse Brewery has a new fermenter coming at the end of March. Should help in production and trying some new beers.

Looking for something to do Saturday night? Pop by the Ladies Beer League Presents "Rocks Off" event at the Mayflower Curling Club and help us raise funds for Stepping Stone. We'll have 5 craft beers and 1 craft cider on tap, curling lessons from 8-10pm, oversized board games from The Board Room Game Cafe, wonderful bites from The Food Wolf, and a CKDU 88.1 FM dance party from 11pm - 2am. And the best part...It's free admission!

Adam Bower is having the 3rd installment of Winemaker vs Brewmaster series at Grand Banker in Lunenburg. This local Taste-Off is between Luckett Vineyards & Garrison Brewing Co. Pete Luckett, owner of Luckett Vineyards and Daniel Girard, brewmaster of Garrison Brewing will each receive our culinary team's 5 course menu in advance, with the mission to put their best pairing forward for each course. 5 Wines, 5 Brews, 5 Courses $80 (+tax & gratuity). Tickets available at the Grand Banker or by calling 902-634-3300.

Moncton area Beer League is planning a New Brunswick craft beer dinner you won't want to miss on Saturday, March 21. Details coming soon.

Strides N Suds is a new ,exclusive event to bring our craft beer and running communities together to raise funds for JDRF. The day will consist of a 5 or 10 km running race along the beautiful First Lake Trail in Lower Sackville and end in a social with samples of craft beer and entertainment. Registration begins at 10:00 am until 11:30 with Run beginning at Noon. MUST BE 19 Years and older to participate.

One last note, Harvest Wine and Spirits in Dartmouth has added four beer taps for growler fills called the Beer Parlour. Watch facebook for what is pouring.

Thanks for joining me again this week after my mid winter break. Until next time enjoy responsibly.

Friday, January 30, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - January 30, 2015



Hello and welcome to the January 30th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault is brewing Canon Franchetti, a cappuccino stout brewed in honour of Nicolo Franchetti, pastor and architect of Edmundston's St-John-the-Baptist Church. Coffee used is from Cafe Lotus Bleu, Sucré Salé and the Boutique Au Bout Du Monde's Café, all downtown Edmundston. It will be available the second week of February. 

Picaroons Traditional Ales is hosting their annual Crabbe Mountain Winter Warmer Party on Saturday February 7 with Sugarbomb, details on facebook. They are also bringing back their Beer and Chocolate Dinners. A multi-course chocolate infused dinner with each course paired with Picaroons. This year they'll be alongside Ginette Ahier of Adorable Chocolate. They're presenting one in Downtown Fredericton at 540 Kitchen & Bar on February 10th, and one in Moncton, New Brunswick at the Tide and Boar Gastropub on February 11th. More information to be released soon.

Railcar Brewing Company is continuing to grow with paperwork on the tasting room and work continues on the cold room. Railcar Brewing is having a Home Brew Off. Submit a Scottish Export 2014 BJCP Style Guideline beer for your chance for $100 bucks, bragging rights and produce a full size batch at Railcar Brewing Company. It is open now until March 26th so get brewing.

Big Spruce Brewing will be at Antigonish Winter Farmers' Market this Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm at the Antigonish mall. This market will run into April, and they have committed to doing it every week. Jeremy says "Don't worry Sydney, we will still be doing the Cape Breton Farmers' Market concurrently."

Boxing Rock Brewing will host Andrew Estabrooks, formerly of Picaroons, this weekend. Word is they will be doing a collaboration on a Rye IPA made with New Brunswick grown malt. Boxing Rock says there's twist to this release that they are not ready to say yet, but it will be a cool time for sure.

Garrison Brewing Company is having a Vertical tasting tonight of Ol' Fog Burner and a Cellar sale tomorrow including a barrel-aged Spruce beer. 

North Brewing Company is now 2 years old. They say to come celebrate this weekend as they offer $10 1.89L growler fills Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Peter says year 3 is looking exciting so stay tuned for what's to come...

Uncle Leo's Brewery released their newest offering, the Winterschlaf, which is Winter Sleep in German. It is a German Hybrid Beer. A good beer to hunker down with during the Winter months! 

A new brewery revealed itself this week. Breton Brewing will be opening on Keltic Drive in Sydney this May. Not a lot of details yet on styles etc but they have stated they will be sticking to tap accounts and growlers and not bottling. I will have a report on them this Spring as they ready to open.

For the Halifax peeps the new incarnation of Premier Wine , Rockhead Wine and Beer Market. There is a little less space but it is used more efficiently. The new space is in Sobeys in Windsor and has four taps for growler fills. One will be its house brand pale ale and the others will be rotating. The space is very nice and one perk for me is parking.

Thanks for joining me again this week. I will be away for the next two weeks so the next Maritime Beer report will be February 20th. Until then enjoy responsibly.

Friday, January 9, 2015

Maritime Beer Report - January 9, 2015



Hello and welcome to the first report of 2015.

PEI Brewing Company released a new and improved Black Banks. It is named after an area in western PEI where the shore appears black from layers of peat moss. Black Banks Cascadian Dark Ale is deceptively dark. It's like a little lie in a glass. At first you might expect strong roasty /coffee aromas, but instead you'll get a snoot-full of bright citrus and tropical hop aromas gliding just above mild but rich chocolate and bread crust aromas. This new brew will be available in their retail area by January 13 on tap and in 473 mL cans at the PEI Brewing Company, the PEILCC locations and ANBL locations shortly after.

Big Tide Brewing Company released some interesting stats about 2014 production. They brewed and served the equivalent of close to 126,000 bottles of beer in 2014 including 26 different beer styles. They say Benedict Arnold Extra Special Bitter and Seaworthy IPA were the most popular.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault say as planned that Louis XVII amber that will be bottled next week. Look for that where its other beers are sold soon.

Grimross Brewing Company is brewing away at its new facility. Currently on tap at the Grimross Brewtique and Taproom is Belgian Blonde Ale, in the pipeline are Rye IPA and Pugnacious Porter and brewing Cheval D'or this weekend. Their plan is to building up beer inventory to have five beers on tap.

Hammond River Brewing is busy kegging a batch of Gammie California Common Ale, soon to be on tap in the area. They say Too Hop To Handle Double IPA is now on tap at The Barrel's Head Gastropub and Wine Bar and also Bourbon Quarter Restaurant & Bar. At 8.4% ABV and 162 IBUs it will surely keep you warm. They also have a new beer coming out which sounds delicious. It's a Breakfast Stout that will be 8% ABV and brewed with Oatmeal, lots of local Java Moose Coffee, and their own home smoked Bacon. look for it soon.

Picaroons Traditional Ales are doing something fun. They are brewing a batch of unfiltered Best Bitter on their old Brewtique system in Downtown Fredericton.  They are actually planning on doing all sorts of experiments on this system this year so look out for all sorts of beer.

The Pump House Brewery says that "Atlantic Canadian Brewery Awards" Gold Medal winning Biere de Garde will be on tap at all four ANBL growler fill stations starting yesterday. Great chance to try this award winner.

Railcar Brewing Company has had all kinds of different beers on tap looking for what people like. Recently they had on a Irish Dry Stout at 4% ABV and 37 IBU, American Amber at 4.5% ABV and 18 IBU and a Black IPA at 9.4% ABV and 55 IBU's. Also Mitch says that after being open for two months there are more Tanks are on the way hoping to make more beer for you this new year.

Trail Way Brewing Company has keggied the first batch of their session IPA. Low alcohol % for you can have a couple. They also say that a India Pale Ale is coming in the next few weeks. They say "At about 60 IBUs it will pack a nice bittering, but with just over 1.5 pounds of hops added to the last 10 mins of boil it will have plenty of flavour and aroma to complement"

Big Spruce Brewing has casked the home brew challenge winning ale. Bráthair Eric is Eric Gautier's winning entry in our American Wheat competition. It will be released next Thursday January 15th at the Local Connections Food and Craft Beer Festival in Halifax. Some casks may head to Stillwell.

Garrison Brewing Company says its Black IPA is back, but for the first time in 650ml ‪‎bombers‬. This is a hop forward beer that comes in at 6.2% ABV and 52 IBUs.

Hell Bay Brewing Company has their newest R.I.P.(A.) on for growler fills and say more Chocolat on the way also.

Propeller Brewing Company released their newest One Hit Wonder, Fly Time IPA and is available at their Prop Shoppes for Growler fills. It is an unfiltered IPA that is a heavily dry hopped lighter bodied brew with big hop Aroma. Fly Time is brewed to leave only a hint of residual sugar which accentuates the hop aroma and flavour. The blend of hops used during brewing and cellaring contribute fruity and earthy characters. The use of Pilsen malt adds a dimension of crispness unlike any other IPA brewed at Propeller. It is a 65 IBU and 6.3% ABV.

Schoolhouse Brewery says they are going to maintain their no delivery fee for Falmouth and Windsor growler deliveries. Go our their website to get the details.

Tatamagouche Brewing Company released their latest beer. Introducing Oyster Cloister, an Oyster Stout 5.3% ABV. The Oyster Cloister uses Malagash oysters in the making of this dry stout. Available in growlers and 650mL bottles at the brewery. Their first Tap Takeover is happening on January 16th at the The Board Room Game Cafe! There will be all of your ‪ favourites available in one place; Maple Squash Ale, RR#2 Lager plus 4 other brews.

Uncle Leo's Brewery has finished with the Cream Stout say there will be something new in a couple or three weeks that would be as dark as their Cream Stout.

This week Ladies Beer League had a successful membership launch at Rock Bottom Brewpub this week. Membership gives you discounts and other perks. Looking ahead to next week I will be at the Craft Beer & Local Food Celebration 2015 on Thursday, it was off the hook last year.

Thanks for all the support and until next time enjoy responsibly.

Friday, December 19, 2014

Maritime Beer Report - December 19, 2014

Hello and welcome to the December 19th edition of the Maritime Beer Report. 

Barnone Brewing says that the 'La Vaca Loca' Milk Stout should be ready for next Tuesday and are very happy with how this one turned out. They go on to says they are planning to do a growler night Tuesday the 23rd, weather permitting.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault will have have three of their beers at the Mont Farlagne ski hill this winter. Bob LeBoeuf, Tante Blanche and Louis XVII will be available on tap and in bottles at the bar. Also don't forget their tap takeover is tomorrow at Resto-Bar Le Deck at 7:00 PM.

Grimross Brewing Company will be open in their new facility on Monday 22nd from 12:00 - 10:00 PM. They will have a "Test Batch Belgian Blonde" beer and "Cheval D'or" on in the tap room and they also say they are brewing a Rye IPA that will be ready in about 3 weeks. 

Hammond River Brewing say their Hawaiian Porter called "Into The Dark" is now on tap at Bourbon Quarter Restaurant & Bar. Craig Pinhey, Atlantic Canada's Wine, Beer and Spirits Writer described it as a Bounty Chocolate Bar in a glass. Lots of Coconut came through with hints of Chocolate. Also it is less than one month until the deadline for the 1st annual Home Brew Competition so get brewing. 

Picaroons Traditional Ales officially broke ground this week at the Roundhouse in Fredericton North marking the start of the construction of the new brewery. It is long overdue and will be a great new spot in Fredericton.

Railcar Brewing Company says that on Saturday December 20th they will have two beers on tap from the first of  their "Guest Brewer" Series. Basset Hound Brewing stopped by and brewed up a Blonde Ale and a Cherry Chocolate Stout. One Keg of each only so get in quick and grab them while you can.

Trail Way Brewing Company has produced a Coffee Stout brewed with Kenyan coffee beans roasted by local Whitney Coffee Company and a Hoppy Amber . They will be available at both 540 Kitchen & Bar & the King Street Ale House starting tomorrow night with the official launch at the King Street Ale House at 7:00 PM

Big Spruce Brewing says that it has brewed Eric Gautier's home brew challenge winning wheat beer, Bráthair Éric. Brewed with modest bittering hops, they used both Simcoe and Cascade as late additions, thus giving this beer a great hop flavour. He also decided to dry hop this bad boy with Citra and New Zealand Wakatu hops. They will debut the beer at the Local Connections Food and Craft Beer Festival in Halifax on January 15th. Eric himself will be there pouring his beer.
They also took seven  Gila Squash from Michelle Smith of North Wind Farm in Skye Glen, Cape Breton and then sugar roasted the flesh. See the facebook page for pictures and an interesting story. They added to their mash of a winter warmer beer. This will be a terroir beer, as not only are they using Gila squash , but they are also using hops from Southan Farms in NB, the Doyle family farm in NS and from their farm here at the brewery. Some black strap molasses will be added for some character, and they are targeting an ABV for 9.0%.  Look for it in the New Year.

Boxing Rock Brewing Company introduced Blue Toboggan, spiced winter ale this week. From Boxing Rock "Spiced with the great flavours of the season - cinnamon and ginger. They also added a touch of Haskap juice from our friends at Haskapa just for fun. Pours a pale straw with a tinge of red-blue from the haskap berries with a nice head and ample lacing. On the palate, the ginger comes first followed by cinnamon and a hint of that great haskap berry. It's backed up by a nice malt backbone, mild bitterness and a smooth finish. At 6% ABV, we think it's the perfect beer for apres-ski, apres-sledding or apres-anything you like."
They also say to Save the Date for "The Whole Grain" Party at Boxing Rock. Friday, January 30 from 5-7:30 PM they are having a beer and bread party at the brewery. More details to come after the holidays. It's going to be a night filled with bread, beer and fun! (and cheese)

Garrison Brewing Company has once again partnered with the gang at The Noble Grape to host the 7th Annual Home brew-off  to showcase the talents of our local home brewers. Selected by BJCP Certified Judges, the Gold Medal winner will be invited to join their brewmaster Daniel Girard in brewing a full-sized batch of their recipe for packaging and release as a limited edition seasonal beer.
The 2014 style is 12B. Robust Porter - A substantial, malty dark ale with a complex and flavorful roasty character. Submissions are due by February 12th and be sure to save-the-date for the Awards Gala on March 5th. Get all the details on Garrisons website.

Propeller Brewing Company has a new beer in its One Hit Wonder Series.Snowblower Winter Ale is a dark and sweet brew with a nice warming alcohol character. This beer is full of character with a rich body provided by the use of 5 specialty malts (2 Row, Wheat, Crystal.  Melanoidin, Munich and Roast Malts). While malt character is the focus of this brew, a note of bitterness and traditional English ale aroma rounds out our newest offering. They used Willamette and Fuggles hops and the beer is 6.2% ABV and 31 IBUs.

Rockbottom Brewpub officially announced that Jacob Saunders is stepping into the role of Brewmaster replacing Greg Nash, who is leaving Rockbottom to open his own microbrewery. Jake worked as a brewer ar Rogues Roost and was excited to take on the challenges of taking on the job at Rockbottom. He also says he is a big believer in an open door and, if there’s time, wants everyone to know that he’s available for inquiries. “People can find me down here all the time,” he says. “I want them to know they can come and knock on the door and chat or get a tour. I want the beer to be approachable and fun, and for the brewery to share those traits.”
He is starting out by putting a new Extra Special Bitter on tap at Rockbottom. It's 5.2% ABV and 35 IBUs, It's copper coloured with an aroma of toast, honey and pears. Broad maltly body featuring coffee and toffee. Earthy balanced bitter finish.

‪As reported last week Tatamagouche Brewing Company‬ and The Stubborn Goat Gastropub have a collaboration brew underway for the Local Connections Craft Beer and Local Food Celebration this January 15th. It is a Double IPA but it needs a NAME and they are opening it up to you! The name must be GOAT-RELATED! The best 'Goatey' name will win a FREE PARTY KEG RENTAL (19+) and a $100 GIFT CARD to the Stubborn Goat! Go and comment on the post on their facebook page to enter. Contest closes December 22nd.


Bad Apple Brewhouse is celebrating its first anniversary on December 31st and we get the presents. There is going to be prizes and giveaways as well they are releasing Black & Tackle aged in Planters Ridge red wine barrels and version of Box cutter IPA. It will be happening from 10 to 5 that day. 

This will be the last Maritime Beer Report for 2014, next week will be a Review of the news from 2014 and on January 2nd will be a 2015 Craft Beer Outlook. May you all have a great Holiday season filled with joy and delight enjoying all that it has to offer and as always enjoy responsibly. 


Friday, December 12, 2014

Maritime Beer Report - December 12, 2014

Hello and welcome to the December 12th edition of the Maritime Beer Report. 

Big Axe Brewery released details on their newest Imperial Pale Ale Wrath of Putin Imperial Pale Ale. This ale is golden amber colour and is brewed with Centennial and Golding hops from Southan Farms. The ale is double hopped to give it a strong hop flavour, aroma and a bitterness of 75 IBUs and has a malty sweetness which provides the perfect balance. It weighs in at 7.5% to get you nice and toasty during the cold season.

Distillerie Fils Du Roy has been distilling great spirits for a few years now in the Acadian Peninsula of New Brunswick and recently got gear to brew. They have all the approvals and licences except the one to sell in New Brunswick from ANBL. They say this may not happen until the next board meeting in February 2015.They are very positive and hopeful.
In the meantime they released notes on their Caraquet Flyer Biere de glace (Ice Beer). Apparently during the brewing process it is partially frozen with the ice crystals removed making a stronger beer. This process sounds similar to a German Eisbock beer. I will pass on any information I get on their status.

Something I am a huge proponent of is the Community Supported Breweries (CSB) and Railcar Brewing is offering this  for Christmas. For 125.00, 250.00 or 500.00 you support the brewery and get an array of great perks, it is a super gift for a beer lover if you have the means. Get more details at the brewery or on Railcar's facebook page.

Shiretown Beer says that its Honey House Ale made with Charlo's Buckwheat Honey is available at the brewery this week end.

Garrison Brewing Company released its Spruce Beer today. In addition there is a logoed glass for sale and a limited addition gift box. There is a barrel aged edition of last years spruce beer coming out very soon as well.

Rock Bottom Brewpub announced that Brewmaster Jake Saunders has joined their team to eventually take over from Greg Nash when he leaves.

Sea Level Brewing releases its High Street Wee Heavy Scotch Ale in time for Christmas. From Sea Level "A dark ale with a malty aroma followed by a sweet caramel taste with hints of roasted, and toasty flavours. A very approachable easy drinking ale that’s only available when the weather sucks." It is a warming 6.4% ABV. Look for it on tap where fine craft beer is served and in cans at the Halifax bottle shops and select restaurants around Nova Scotia.

Tatamagouche Brewing Company spilled the beans on their holiday brew that is available now at the brewery and at The Ladies Beer League's brunch at Bar Stillwell on Sunday. Say hello to Maple Squash Ale, brewed with Red Kuri squash from Waldegrave Farms and maple syrup from Acadian Maple. This festive ale is 5.1% ABV and is sweet with a hint of spice.

Enjoy whatever you decide to do this week end and as always enjoy responsibly. 


Friday, November 7, 2014

Maritime Beer Report - November 7, 2014

Hello and welcome to the November 7th edition of the Maritime Beer report

Barnone Brewery says Pendy’s Pub is coming on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 4 to 8 p.m. It will be an afternoon of Irish music at the Barnone in Rose Valley. Get more details on facebook.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault have released the name of their new amber ale, say hello to Louis XVII Bélonie Nadeau. It is another interesting local character. Check out the story on their facebook page. In case you didn't catch last weeks blog  the new beer is a 27 IBUs and 5.5% ABV amber ale.

Celtic Knot Brewing says that tomorrow will be this year's first brew of their seasonal beer called Toque and Mitts, a bourbon oaked English barley wine. They say with brewing and aging it should be ready right around Christmas time.

Hammond River Brewing has released their latest beer, Switchback Brown Ale. This is a bold American Brown Ale that has 6.0% ABV, 62 IBUs, and was dry hopped with a very good portion of Falconer's Flight hops. Look for it at his local taps.

The Pump House Brewery says to keep an eye out for their Schwarzbier, soon to be on tap at the Dieppe ANBL Growler Station and at The Pump House Restaurant. "Schwarzbier or "black beer" is a traditional German Style black lager. As the name implies it is black in colour yet very drinkable with subtle hints of chocolate and coffee leading into a light-bodied, clean finish, It weighs in between 6.5-7.5% ABV.

Railcar Brewing Company has a couple of cool events coming up.  Learn more about beer, the history of beer, beer styles and how to make beer. Glassware for Beer - How To Taste Beer - How to Review a Beer - How To Pour Beer. In Session 1 on November 22 at 6:00pm learn about  the history of beer. Of course beer tasting will be involved and the cost is $20 per session that will be held bi-weekly.
On Saturday, December 20 at 1:00pm - 6:00pm relax and enjoy the afternoon and bring your gifts to the brewery to get gift wrapped. Sample some beers as your presents are being wrapped. Donations will be accepted for gift wrapping and the donations will help fund the purchase of toys for children in need in our community. This is a great idea, any other breweries going to do this? 

I had a great email exchange with the owners of Trail Way Brewing in Fredericton. It sounds like they have exciting plans and hope to open next month. See the full article on my blog.

Greg Nash was busy brewing at Rock Bottom Brewpub this week making some of his award winning Wreckoning Russian Imperial Stout, look for it soon. He also announced he is leaving Rock Bottom to open his own brewery in central Halifax. The brewmaster position at Rock Bottom is currently being advertised, big shoes to fill and it will be interesting who they will hire. See the brewmaster advertisement here

Garrison Brewing released Officially Licensed Star Trek Klingon Warnog Roggen Dunkel Ale today. This limited release has been made available just in time for Hal-Con, the regions' premier sci-fi, fantasy & gaming convention. Garrison goes on to say Warnog celebrates victory in battle with its unique flavours and deep reddish brown colour. The authentic weizen ale yeast gives Warnog aromas of cloves and banana. Rye & Dark Crystal malts create a balanced flavour of caramel and chocolate, with a slightly tart, dry finish. This ale is 5.5% ABV and will be available at the brewery, private stores and select licenced establishments.

Propeller Brewing has a One Hit Wonder out today. All I know about it right now is that it is a 5.7% ABV beer. Section 31 Pale Ale will be available in growlers at the Prop Shops.

Schoolhouse Brewery has started doing growler deliveries to the Windsor and Falmouth areas starting yesterday. For more informations check out out their website.

Sea Level Brewing announced the release of a couple of favorites. Crossing Muddy Waters Brown Ale and Port in the Storm Porter are back. Crossing Muddy Waters Brown Ale is a 5.5% ABV North American style brown ale with a smooth, rich chocolate malt profile balanced with a subtle hop flavour and aroma. Port in the Storm Porter is a 5% ABV dark and malty London-style porter layered with coffee, chocolate and mocha flavours. Hopped with a judicious amount of English hops for a velvety smooth, hearty brew. Look for these at the brewery, usual tap locations and in cans very soon.

Thanks for checking me out again this week and until next time enjoy responsibly.