Maritime Beer Report - August 7, 2015

Hello and welcome to the August 7th, International Beer Day, edition of the Maritime Beer Report. First off I have been reporting the brews news for two years now and would like to thank you all for all the support.

PEI Brewing had a Kiwi IPA on tap for #IPADay and they say it was made by one of their Kiwis, Wax the logistics manager, in honor of our other Kiwi, Big Scotty. This IPA has freshly squeezed kiwi juice and is dry hopped with Citra and Comet. More on PEI Brewing in a moment.

Upstreet Craft Brewing launched their first seasonal beer on #IPADay. White Noize is a white IPA brewed with 50% wheat and generously hopped with Cascade, Centennial, Chinook and Columbus throughout. It weighs in at 7% ABV and 70 IBUs. The name is a tribute to the acoustical din of the tap room. 

Big Tide Brewing celebrated its sixth birthday this week. Wendy brewed their Anniversary Amber Ale again. This time using six types of malted barley an six hop varieties and hoping to get 6% ABV. It will be available shortly. They also launched the first collaboration between Big Tide an Hammond River Brewing, Rhubarbaric Saison. It was brewed with approximately 70 pounds of local rhubarb, pilsner and wheat malt and comes in around 7.1 ABV.

Distillerie Fils du Roy has a summer seasonal called La Messe Blanche. It is a 7% ABV weizenbock that has a great description on the facebook page. Looks like a very refreshing summer beer. The beer was made in the honor of Alexie Landry born in 1721 who officiated white masses, that is to say a mass without a priest for the people of Caraquet.

Picaroons Traditional Ales says Pride Sally Pride Apricot Ale will be back on tap starting this Sunday at the Brewtique and at the 2015 Fredericton Pride Festival Beer Garden in Downtown Fredericton. This is a 4.5% ABV beer and it is while supplies last. In honor of #IPADay they had 3 different dry-hopped Yippee IPAs on tap. One was Cascade & Tettnang, one with Saaz & Fuggles and one with Amarillo & Rakau. Picaroons is coming to Halifax and taking over the taps at Lion & Bright Café Wine Bar this Saturday after the Halifax Seaport Beerfest. They are also bringing a special guest HALF CUT Brewing Company.

The Pump House Brewery has Strawberry Wheat now on tap at the brewery in Moncton. Flavoured with local strawberries and a 5.2% ABV.

Big Spruce Brewing released two beers this week, a collaboration and a seasonal. First is Gimme Citra, a single hopped pale ale made with Stillwell Beer Bar. Big Spruce says "Outrageously aromatic, flavourful, and perfect for summer, this will be hitting Halifax yesterday. 36 IBU and 5.5% ABV. Available now at the brewery." Next up is Tip of the Spear Spruce Tip IPA. Also available now at the brewery.

Garrison Brewing was working on a collaboration today while the folks from Great Lakes Brewery and Metalman Brewing are in town

As I mentioned in the Spring, Rogues Roost will be closing by October 1 because its building is being redeveloped. The exact closure date is to be announced. This is sad news but PEI Brewing will be producing a Rogues Roost IPA that will be available in cans and sold in liquor stores across the Maritimes starting in September. Details being released soon.

Stutz Cider has released a new Wild Blueberry cider. It is made from fresh Nova Scotia Apples and Blueberries. It is available across Nova Scotia and is 6.5% ABV. 

Halifax Oktoberfest is looking for volunteers for the 2015 installment if you are interested email beer@garrisonbrewing.com for more info.

Ending with a sad note this week with some bad news from Barnone Brewing. Hugh Campbell, father and business partner passed away. He was a charming man and full of life when I met him. The family has my condolences at this difficult time.

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

Maritime Beer Report - November 21, 2014

Hello and welcome to the November 21st edition of the Maritime Beer Report

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault are having a bit of fun on their facebook page. They are releasing a new beer next week and are adding pieces to a puzzle to let their fans try to guess what it is. All that has been revealed so far is that it is Christmas related, it will be 7.3% ABV and is going to be legendary. More details next week.

Grimross Brewing Company kegged off the last batch (Ben's Country Cousin) at Picaroons Brewtique. They say their beer will still be available at Picaroons Brewtique until theyopen in mid to late December at 600 Bishop Drive in Fredericton. 

Hammond River Brewing are staying busy after the brewer took a vacation. They brewed Switchback Brown Ale with the next two planned brew sessions will be the Too Hop To Handle Double IPA and a new Chocolate Coconut Porter called Into The Dark.

Picaroons Traditional Ales says Feels Good Imperial Pilsner is back but in the latest batch they used some leftover local hops from their harvest ales. Traditionally the hop profile is only Saaz hops, though in this batch there's Nugget, Centennial, and Magnum.

Railcar Brewing Company says they are working on a Spiced Gingerbread Ale that will feature some oak chips soaked with spiced Sailor Jerry's Rum. That will be a great treat. Also after running out of beer for a few days there should be Brown Ale back on tap soon.

Shiretown Beer currently has five beers available at the brewery. They include their three year round beers, the Venezuelan Express (porter) and Black Currant Wheat. In addition they have a Hop Hash Strong Wheat Ale in the tank. They say u it is a 6.2% ABV with medium bitterness that is hopped with Southan Farms Hop Hash. The hop hash is made up of the farms Golding hops. The grist bill is half wheat malt and the other half is made up of prairie 2 Row, Munich, Vienna, Caramunich and topped off with toasted wheat. 

Trail Way Brewing Company was busy as they prepare to open for business. This week they were brewing up a batch of imperial brown ale that they are calling Grizzly Oak. Brown that they say "like a grizzly and to be aged for some time on oak. Should be quite complex".

Staying with New Brunswick the ANBL has added another store to its growler program. Sackville is now offering three taps to fill growlers during select hours. This week is Picaroons Winter Warmer, Muskoka Cream Ale and Le Trou Du Diable L’Amère Indienne.

Boxing Rock Brewing Company introduced The Darkness Cascadian Dark Ale today at local bottle shops and the brewery. They say "a true India Pale Ale, albeit with an unexpected colour, it's hoppy, bright, and packed full of big flavours ... pours with almost stout-like black inkiness, capped with a nice tan head. First sensation is the hop forward presentation from copious amounts of late hops, and dry hops. It's followed by a gorgeous roasty body with a hint of wheat chewiness, fruity middle notes and then backed up by bracing bitterness in the finish". It is available in 650 ml bottles and has a 6.5 % ABV. 
They also announced they are on tap in New Brunswick at The King Street Ale House in Fredericton, Tide and Boar Gastropub in Moncton, Lemongrass Thai Fare in Saint John, Ducky's in Sackville, Laundromat Espresso Bar in Moncton and 540 Kitchen & Bar in Fredericton.

Garrison Brewing had a busy week. First they released the 2014 Winter Warmer into the NSLC and private stores. In Nova Scotia it is going to be in six packs and they tell me New Brunswick in 500 ml bottles. They also did their annual trip to Meander River Farm to get spruce boughs for Spruce Beer, look for it soon. One other note, Kellye Robertson, the assistant brewmaster is leaving to be brewmaster at mysterious soon-to-be opened craft brewery in Halifax in 2015. She won the Garrison 2012 brew-off with  Kellye  R's Wild Rye'd IPA,

Granite Brewery is now brewing Darkside Black IPA today and should available within two weeks. This is a healthy 6.75% ABV.

North Brewing Company has finally released their newest seasonal Belgian Milk Stout. It is in 750 mL swing tops, growlers and next Thursday in 650 mL "bombers" at Bishop's Cellar. They say that the "warm roasted malt character is complemented with a smooth body and a subtle belgian yeast character.

Rock Bottom Brewpub says Mr. Nash has created a wonderful Rauchbier that will be hitting the taps tomorrow at 4 PM. Say hello to Smoke & Mirrors. 
From the blog "Our classic Bamberg-style Rauchbier was brewed with over 80% of the malted barley being beechwood-smoked, the remainder being Munich malt. It's a blend of smoke and malt with balance and intensity completely complementary of one another. A true lager with Märzen-like qualities sporting a malty, toasty richness and an almost bacon-like smokiness (mmm bacon), it's delicious. Finishes malty and lightly sweet with moderate, balanced, hop bitterness. It weighs in at 5.3 % ABV and 21 IBUs.

Rogue's Roost Brew Pub has a new beer on tap from Jake. The Double IPA is 8% ABV and 85 IBUs. It's hopped with Falconer's Flight, Cascade, Galena, and a touch of Saaz. It's got just enough  malt backbone to support it's massive late and dry hopping. Finish is dry for a quenching pint with lingering bitterness.

Fredericton Craft Beer Festival and reLiSH have partnered to bring you Burgers n' Beer Fredericton 3.0 on November 27th.. This evening event will pair beer and cider with delicious sliders prepared by the fine chefs at reLiSH's new Fredericton Uptown location. Included are 10 - 4oz beer or cider samples each paired with 5 unique slider and a custom tasting glass. This time there will be a special bonus, Fredericton Craft Beer Festival 2015 tickets go on the next day but if your at this Burgers n' Beer event you get to buy them that night plus you will get 10% off them. And speaking of Fredericton Craft Beer Fest, tickets go on sale November 28th at 10 AM online via eventbrite plus they will be at the Sunday Market.

Staying on beerfests Saint John Beerfest will be on April 11th and tickets are on sale now. Great time to grab some for stocking stuffers

On May 11-17, 2015, the Craft Brewers Association of Nova Scotia will be initiating the inaugral Nova Scotia Craft Beer Week. The week will feature many interesting beer events, with a flagship event taking place on Saturday, May 16. This will be a great opportunity to try many delicious local craft brews, meet their makers, and truly celebrate one of the best things happening in the province. Watch here for more details.

Next Friday, November 28th, is Canadian Beer Day. Join in the fun from coast to coast. to coast and raise your glass - post and share photos using the hashtag #CanadianBeerDay on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. 

That is all for this weeks entry, thanks for taking the time check out this week's beer happening and until next time, enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - June 27, 2014

Hello and welcome to the Maritime Beer Report for June 27th 2014

Big Axe Brewery is happy to announce that they are now licensed to sell by the glass on site. They currently have Chocolate Oatmeal Stout, Chanterelle Cream Ale and IPA back on tap.

Bad Apple Brewhouse announced a Tap takeover at Stillwell on July 5th. From Bad Apple's web page "Six months ago Annapolis Valley homebrewer Jeff Saunders got his brewing licence. From day one, Jeff has been brewing adventurous, bold, flavourful beers specifically for one event on July 5th. Beers aged on cedar, oak barrel-aged beers, a sour (a first at Stillwell), a 100% smoked-malt beer and much more. Twelve taps, 2 casks and 3 sessions - 12-3, 4-7, 8-11. $10 gets you a glass to keep and your first taste. Reserve your spot by contacting Stillwell."

Tatamagouche Brewing Co. announced they had a great opening week starting tomorrow they will be at the Truro Farmers Market on Saturdays with our 650mL bottles.

Stone City Ales is brewing a Imperial IPA collaboration brew with Big Spruce called Watchtower Conspiracy. Not sure if any will be available here.

Rogues Roost has a Hefeweizen, with a 5.4% ABV, on tap at the brewpub. Nice summer ale.

Thanks for joining me this time, hope you enjoy Canada Day and as always enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - May 23, 2014

Hello and welcome to the Maritime Beer Report for May 23, 2014.

PEI Brewing Company has been talking alot about their custom cask program this spring and had an interesting article on their website. From PEI Brewing "We barreled a bit of our wort today. 225 liters of Honey Wheat wort (unfermented beer) went into a former red wine barrel with Belgian Saison yeast. In about 30 days we’ll taste the fruits of our labours and see what we have. We’re expecting to have a dry, light-golden beer with lots of esters and spicy, fruity notes. Undertones of toasted oak and vinousness will add complexity and interest.

Most of this beer will be used for our cask program. It might be dry hopped, aged on fruit, or spiced in a naturally carbonated cask – whatever tickles our fancy! Look for it at special PEIBC events or at our cask-friendly licencees like Stillwell in Halifax."

Big Axe Brewery are on tap at Ducky's in Sackville NB with their Chanterelle Cream Ale. Ducky's tap selection of craft is outstanding, their tweets make me thirsty.

Great news for Celtic Knot Brewing in addition to adding a couple of taps at Ducky's they declared demand requires them to order 3 new fermeters. Celtic Knot is also looking for a used large or medium freezer for the brewery. Pm them if you have one.

Picaroons' Brewers Bash tickets are on sale now. Some details are out including that the ticket includes entry from 11AM-11PM, a custom 5oz tasting cup, and 8 beer tickets with additional tickets costing 1.00 each. There will be lots of food, lots of music and of course there will be lots of beer. More details soon and I will pass them along.
Picaroons also relays that the EASTBOUND & DOWN IPA, their online collab-brew with Great Lakes Brewery, will be ready and on tap in Downtown Fredericton next week. 

Bad Apple Brewhouse now has on tap tomorrow their newest one-off limited edition Double IPA called The Impresser DIPA. It is hammered with hops and weighs in at 300 IBUs and 10.2% ABV. It is fermented on Conan Yeast and that makes this beer unique and definitely a one of a kind. Very limited quantities until it runs out. Coming up near Fathers Day they will have a Mosaic DIPA available. They still have barrel aged Russian Imperial Stout on tap which I had the privilege to help brew.

Garrison Brewing released two beers yesterday. The Nit Wit new IPA in 6-packs. The new IPA has Citra, Columbus and Amarillo featured in this brew and comes in at 6.5% ABV and 50 IBUs. More on Garrison in a moment. 

At Rogues Roost the Dunkel WeizenBock is on tap. It is described as dark traditional German Wheat style that is rich and bready, with a soft banana and clove finish. 7.5% ABV.

Sea Level Brewing released Apple Blossom Ale yesterday. They tell me it is made with pilsner malt, ale yeast, a New Zealand hop called "Nelson Sauvin" and infused with valley apples and blossoms. Look for it at the brewery and it comes in at 4.8% ABV.

The Stillwell Beer Bar is hosting a Garrison Brewing Cask Takeover on June 21st. There will be 12 casks on the bar in 3s showcasing some exciting and creative one-offs. There will be a a "First sip session from 12 until 2:00 PM with tickets on sale now and a general session starting at 2:00 PM with tickets sold at the door.


One of Canada's most respected breweries, Le Trou du diable, will be taking over the Tide and Boar Gastropub on May 29th. Isaac Tremblay from Le Trou du diable will be on hand to help out with this great event. 

They will be featuring on tap Their McTavish Ale and an assortment of their bottled beer and of course a few surprises.

I went to the Grand Opening of Meander River Farm and Brewery last Saturday. I was there between 10 and 10:30 and the crowds were steady. I wanted to talk to the Baileys but alas it was not to be. I settled to show myself around and drink a glass of the Lunch Box Pale Ale and pick up a growler. The ale is hoppy to be sure, watch for a review soon. I hear they ran out of beer and are dry for another week. When the juice is flowing again I will let you know.

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

Maritime Beer Report - May 2, 2014

Hello and welcome to the May 2nd edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault had a big week this week with their tanks arriving at the brewery. Also their own "Hoppy Diva" Mychèle is breaking in her new boots. She's been accepted as a member of the Pink Boots Society which aims at promoting the work of women in breweries. 

Grimross Brewing was bottling Pugnacious Porter this week. Pugnacious is conditioned on pure cocao and whole vanilla beans. They use a Belgian yeast and it attenuates fairly well so is a little more dry than typical Porter. Aroma is faint chocolate - flavour is coffee/dark chocolate with a hint of roastiness - mouthfeel is light, crisp, dry for a porter enjoy a few. It will be at King Street Ale House, Tide & Boar and of course the Brewtique. The Porter weighs in at 5% ABV

Picaroons Traditional Ales said it is HOP time! Citra & SorachiAce hops went into the EASTBOUND & DOWN IPA online collaboration with Great Lakes Brewery. Look out for the EASTBOUND & DOWN IPA to be on tap around Downtown Fredericton during the Canadian Brewing Awards at the end of May.

Rock Bottom Brew Pub released the Intergalactic SMaSH'd Lager on tap on Thursday. It is brewed exclusively with Superior Pale Ale malt and Galaxy hops. From Greg Nash "An intergalactic amped-up lager; hopped to the hilt starting at the mash and finishing with multiple dry-hop additions. The single malt brew coupled with the clean lager fermentation make this an epic canvas for a true taste of this newer Australian hop cultivar." It has a 7.1% ABV and a calculated 70 IBUs.


Rogues Roost is brewing a Dunkel Weizenbock, details are thin now but I will have more on release.

There is a craft beer week end going on at White Point Beach Lodge this week end. There is barbeque, buffet, craft beer and a tap takeover featuring Hell Bay Brewing and Boxing Rock Brewing. Lots going on, check out the website.

That is all for this week so until time enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - April 18, 2014

Hello and welcome to the April 18th, Good Friday, edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

The Gahan House crowned the winners of the first annual Home Brew Challenge. Congrats to Ryan Palmer and Lee Nicholson. They won with their Cranberry White Ale. This brew will be on tap at Gahan House in a couple of weeks.

Big Spruce Brewing grew a little this week. They added 2 x 10bbl unitank fermenters and hoped to passivate them on Thursday and then brew. There is still 1 more fermenter and 2 conditioning tanks to come. Jeremy is also brewing a 2nd batch of You Spin Me White Round Wheat IPA because as he puts it "you loved it!"

Boxing Rock Brewing Company and The Ladies Beer League released Alewife's Revenge last evening at The Stillwell Beer Bar. At 4% ABV it will a great session beer. It will be available in 1 l growlers at the Halifax Seaport Market on Saturday, and in 650 mL bottles at Bishop's Cellar, Premier Wine & Spirits, Harvest Wines and Cristall Wine Merchants. I had a glass last night and I quite like it.

Rock Bottom Brewpub have their latest beer on tap. Dubbed the mighty Thulsa Doom, it was spawned from the dregs of a tiny little can of Heady Topper. From Rockbottom "The yeast strain (VPB1188 known simply as 'Conan') is highly sought after and regarded for it's intensely fruity, apricot-like ester production and powerful fermentations. So we thought we'd have a time brewing up a DIPA with it. Local Brewnoser Rob Shortt harvested yeast from a can of the deliciously hoppy Vermont-born brew, cultured up a starter and ran it across the harbour to us. We continued nurturing and feeding the beast, growing it into a concentrated 50 L starter for the main batch of hoppy (Columbus, Simcoe, Centennial, Chinook) goodness." They also add that it was created with a nod to John Kimmich and team at Alchemist, brewers of Heady Topper. By the way it is 7.8% ABV and 100+ IBUs  (calculated)

Rogues Roost ‏said last Saturday that their Oatmeal Stout on!  First time in 6 years so get it while it lasts.

I stopped it to Lion & Bright yesterday to talk to the owner Sean about this Tuesday's Tap Takeover by Big Spruce. The event starts at 6:00 PM and goes to close with a DJ until 9:00 and Modern Grass on after that. Entrance is free and $1.00 will be donated for each pint you buy for the Ecology Action Centres Greenbelt initiative and musicians will pass the hat. There is also going to me special menu items that night with recommended pairings. What beers are coming? Kitchen Party, Cereal Killer, Bitter Get'er and Ready Yer Knot of course with You Spin Me White Round and the last keg on earth of The Whole 9 Yards Scotch Ale. You want more? Ok, a cask of Glenmorangie infused Cereal Killer to boot. For more details I will have a blog post tomorrow.

For all the people affected by flooding in New Brunswick, my thoughts are with you. Until next week take care and enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - March 28, 2014

Hello and welcome to the March 28th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault are teaming up with Edmundston's Book Fair to present two beer workshops on April 4th and 5th with Mario D'Eer. The one Saturday is a cheese and beer pairing and Sunday is a beer tasting and appreciation event. Tickets for each event will go fast, so act soon if you're interested and you get to keep the glass.

Big Spruce Brewing has released You Spin Me White Round, a wheat IPA they brewed together with Sawdust City Brewing from Ontario. It comes in at 79 IBUs and 6.4% ABV. Jeremy says it is dry hopped and big body. Available now at the brewery. Limited tap releases coming soon.

Garrison Brewing Co. released Saint Peter's Belgian-Style Strong Ale this week. They describe it as "smooth and spicy with notes of vanilla and banana". It is $4.25 at the brewery today and coming soon to private stores and the NSLC.

Propeller Brewing Company has released their Double IPA in Growlers & 500ml single serve bottles at both Prop Shops and will work its way through channels to the other usual spots.

Rockbottom Brew Pub Brewers Blog reports that their Balticus is getting low so it will be gone soon. The barrel aged version the their Wreckoning Russian Imperial Stout is a "stunner". A Double IPA fermented on the 'Conan' (VPB1188) yeast strain is coming soon. as is a Galaxy hopped S.M.a.S.H. lager. Their latest beermakers dinner is on Monday, they are a lot of fun.

Rogues Roost ‏announced that for the first time in six years they're brewing Oatmeal Stout. They promise to keep us posted on availability.

Schoolhouse Brewery opening has been pushed back a few weeks to get some additional paperwork in order. They are now aiming it having it in the pubs May 2nd. I will try to keep everyone posted on developments.

Sea Level Brewing posted they have a new beer, The New World Alt, a Düsseldorf Altbier. It is currently available in growlers at the brewery and on tap at the Port Pub. They go on to say cans will be ready next week or so.

Fredericton Craft Beer Festival are not resting on their laurels as they join forces with reLiSH for Burgers n' Beer on Tuesday April 15 2014 from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The event will pair rarely sampled beer/cider with delicious sliders prepared by the fine chefs at reLiSH's new Fredericton Uptown location. Adam Clawson from Red Rover Brewing will join them to chat about his new local NB Craft Cider. You will receive six 8oz beer or cider samples each paired with a unique slider and a custom tasting glass. The tentative sample list includes Hammond River Brewing, Red Rover Cider, Red Racer, Grimross Brewing and Celtic Knot. Tickets on sale now.

Saint John Beer Fest announced a couple of days ago that their event is officially sold out and due to the nature of the venue, there will be no more tickets released. They thank everyone for the support and looking forward to seeing everyone at the show.

Myself and some of the Avoiding Chores crew went to a craft beer and food event put on by Local Connections Halifax on Thursday. The event was at Charcuterie Ratinaud who also did the food except for DeeDee's ice cream and beer by Boxing Rock Brewing. It was a great intimate event and brewer Henry Pedro's anecdotes were spot on. Look for a full report coming soon

That is all for this week and see you next week for the Belgian Beer Day edition. Until then enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - February 28, 2014

Hello and welcome to the February 28th edition of the Maritime Beer Report

Gahan House Brewery announced a slight change in its First Annual Home Brewer’s Challenge.  "After talking with some of the home brewer’s we have decided to change the dates for the contest.  This will allow everyone the proper amount of time to brew their beer to perfection.   We are asking everyone to have their finished product handed into Gahan by 5:00 pm on Friday April 4th.  From there we will narrow down the contest to the top 5 and the final judging will be done on Saturday Afternoon at 2:00pm on April 12th." Good luck everyone

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault said on Wednesday that the countdown was beginning saying around 95 days until they open. Going to be an exciting time in Edmundston this summer.

Bad Apple Brewhouse ‏has been busy in more ways than one. First their Barrel Aged Black & Tackle will be ready soon and Double IPA coming on tap as well. I would also like to congratulate Jeff and The Brewers Wife on the news they are expecting another baby to help in the brewery.

Big Spruce Brewing was busy brewing a Wheat IPA today with Aaron Spinney from Sawdust City Brewing. They are calling it "You Spin Me White Round Wheat IPA". I will keep you updated on availability.They also announced their second expansion and have procured 3 10 bbl fermenters and 2 serving tanks so that they can continue to grow and meet demand.

Garrison Brewing started with 76 entries in their Home Brew Off and narrowed it down to 13 semi-finalists and then further narrowed down to just 4 stayed tuned for the here the winner announced on March 13th.

Meander River Farm looks like they got some nice shiney tanks and fermenters in this week. Their project is really coming together nice this winter.

Rogue's Roost ‏have put their new porter on tap and tell us it is "Nice and dark and tasty" 

Ladies Beer League first event of 2014 is on March 25th they'll be screening "The Beer Hunter" at Lion & Bright Café Wine Bar, and will be featuring cask-conditioned ale from Uncle Leo's Brewery. Tickets cost $15 and include a pint of the ale and popcorn. Go to their brand spanking new website to get the details and buy tickets. I also see that their collaboration with Boxing Rock Brewing will be released on Thursday April 17th from 7:00 pm - 12:00 am at Stillwell Beer Bar 1672 Barrington Street in Halifax. I am not sure what it is but I think it uses a lot of apples.

Speaking of Stillwell Beer Bar they released the tap list for the Picaroons Tap Takeover on March 15th. The offerings are:
Winter warmer
Maple cream ale
Ember ale smoked porter
Timber hog stout
104th regiment brown ale
Best bitter
Simeon jones river valley amber ale
Feels good imperial pilsner
Plaid to the bone heather ale
Blonde
Yippee ipa
Irish red

CASKS:
Ember Ale smoked porter
Afterglow Aphrodisiac Ale
Parcel of Rogues session ale

As of Friday there are 5 tickets left so hurry if you want one. Not to be missed.

Fredericton Craft Beer Fest is about a week away and excitement is building. Here is the beer list of maritime breweries as of February 22nd and is subject to change (there are many other beers besides this list)

North Brewing
Belgian IPA
Saison
Strong Dark Belgian

Big Spruce Brewing
Bitter Get'er India Black IPA
Cereal Killer Oatmeal Stout

Uncle Leo's Brewing
IPA
Red
Smoked

Boxing Rock Brewing
The Vicar's cross Double IPA
Hunky Dory Pale Ale
Temptation Red Ale

Garrison Brewing Company
Nut Brown
Irish Red Ale
Raspberry Wheat
Hopyard Pale Ale 
Imperial Pale Ale
Martello Stout

Bad Apple Brewhouse 
Black & Tackle RIS
American Pale Ale

Shiretown
Blonde du Quai
Siren's t'ale
Brown Ale

Grimross Brewing
Ben's Pale Ale
Rye IPA

Picaroons
Maple Cream
A Parcel of Rogues
Ember Ale
Afterglow Aphrodisiac Ale
Mans Best Friend
Dark and Stromy Night
Best Bitter

Pump House Brewery
Fire Chief Red Ale
Scotch Ale
Special Old Bitter Ale (SOB)
Cadian Cream Ale
Premium Lager
Blue Berry Ale

Big Tide Brewing
Simms Pale Ale
Whistlepig Stout

Red Rover Brewing
Spring Cider
Summer Cider
Fall Cider

Barnone Brewing
IPA
Pale Ale
Sessions

PEI Brewing Company
Sir John A Honey Wheat
Island Red
Iron Bridge
1772 IPA
Beach Chair Lager
Blueberry Ale
Sydney Street Stout
Cask Ale

Congrats to Adam Jones of Fredericton on winning the 2 VIP tickets to the FCBF 14 

That is all for this week, take care and enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - February 14, 2014

Hello and welcome to the valentines day edition of the Maritime Beer Report

The Gahan House Brewery has released some exciting news. They're launching their 1st Annual Home Brewer's Challenge! You now have the opportunity to have your very own brew on tap at Gahan. There is no set style so you can brew up your speciality. To receive the sign up sheet or to get more details, email gahan@murphyrestaurants.ca

Big Axe Brewery apologized for being so quiet but would like to let everyone know they are working hard on acquiring last of the necessary licenses and starting to brew. 

Celtic Knot Brewing announced for everyone to hurry in to The Laundromat Cafe and Espresso Bar for the only keg of this years Toque and Mitts English Barley Wine. They go on to say next years will be aged in bourbon oak barrels.

The first event for the new Moncton area Beer League has been announced. They'll have an active tour of the Pump House brewery at 131 Mill Rd. along with samples from five beers on tap or Pump House root beer, plus a barrel-aged or cask-conditioned beer specially selected by the brewer for them! Tickets are $15 per person in advance until February 20th. After that, tickets can be purchased at the door for $20 per person. Check them out on facebook.

Big Spruce Brewing revealed that coming soon they are adding Top of the Spruce! A reservation only/special event eatery atop their brewery. The view looks outstanding. As well they say Brewmaster dinners are coming soon.

Garrison Brewing Co.has a couple of interesting beers out this week end. First is their tempting new “Love Potion #9”. It is a crisp amber ale infused with mystery ingredients such as cranberries & hibiscus. They say "With a deep red tint & luscious spicing, you’ll want to be careful who you sit next to". This week end only at the retail store and select taps in HRM.

There has been several teasers posted through Garrison's social media channels this week  with #3447. Turns out it is a test batch of  an American style IPA. It is an IPA loaded with fresh citrus & tropical goodness using cascade and galaxy hops and a few other surprises. Available in the retail store & private stores across HRM. If you get to try it go on twitter and let them know what you think at #TestBatch.

Meander River Farm latest is that they have finished priming the brewery and beer should be on the way soon!

Bridge Brewing Company announced yesterday they are rebranding under the name North Brewing Company. Same people, same beer, new name. From North Brewing "We are excited to be starting our second year with a new name and an expansion of our capacity. As many of you know there is a Bridge Brewing Company in Vancouver and over the past year both companies experienced online confusion over who was who. We thought it was best to rebrand for our second year with a name that is all our own.

The North End is our home and we have a strong sense of the direction we want to take this company; for those reasons we decided to change to North Brewing. 

If anyone has any Bridge merchandise that they would like to exchange for our new North merchandise just bring it by the shop and we will be happy to swap it, but if you want to keep it they are now rare collectors items" 

Rogue's Roost ‏released their Bock yesterday. It is a traditional German strong, dark Lager coming in at 6.8% ABV. 

Stillwell Beer Bar released that Sunday at Noon they are releasing their first house beer, "That's Falcon Teamwork", a 6.8% IPA. It is a collaboration with Bad Apple Brewhouse. I bet it is going to be outstanding.

Yet another new brewery is opening in Halifax. From their website "Wrought Iron Brewing Company (WIBC) is a craft brewery to be launched in Halifax, providing beer to local watering holes and our on-site taproom. We will offer regionally-flavored, locally produced, and community-oriented beer coupled with irreverent, honest marketing.WIBC will initially produce 2 flagship beers: Doug Stanhop, a brilliant, bitter, Belgian IPA with minimal filtering, floral hops, and a strong afterbite in tribute to our favourite stand-up comedian; and Ditch Pig Gose, a German-style wheat beer with heavy malt, tart and salty undertones, and sweet aftertaste in tribute to pigs of the ditch." Welcome to the community.

Finally there is a three weeks until the sold out Fredericton Craft Beer Festival starts. Anyone following me on twitter I am giving away 2 VIP tickets generously donated by the festival. We been having some fun with it, so watch for more chances to win next week.

That is all for this week, take care, have a hoppy valentines day and as always enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - February 7, 2014

Hello and welcome to the February 7th edition on the Maritime Beer Report.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault hired two brewers that will begin working the first of April. Jason Dionne and Gavin Anderson are bringing a large breadth of knowledge to the brewery. The brewery further says  they are starting lab work at the Grand Falls NBCC next week to test two new recipes, a blonde ale and a Belgian white, which were developed by their Belgian partner, Brunehaut Brewery. The first beers will be hitting the market in June, in time for the tourist season.

Hammond River Brewing's official launch is at the Saint John Ale House on February 13th at 6:00 pm. All four beers will be available that evening for tasting. A limited amount of tickets are now on sale there, the cost is $10, and it includes 4 samples of HRB beer along with some appetizers. 

Picaroons Traditional Ales states Afterglow Aphrodisiac Ale will be ready for next week. They say "The Afterglow is a Full-Bodied Ale that's brewed with Chocolate, a hint of Cayenne, Ginseng Root, and Liquorice Root! It rings in it at 5% ABV and you can easily have more than 1.

Authentic Seacoast Brewing Company shared that their  Rare Bird Craft Beer Full Steam Stout is headed to the NSLC. Check a store near you soon.

Bad Apple Brewhouse shared on February 1st they were filling barrels with Black & Tackle. Expect some of the barrel aged stout in the near future.


Boxing Rock Brewing increased production capacity this week by adding a 34-hectolitre fermentation tank. This will allow them to brew more often and keep up with demand for their products. They also have a teaser posted of something they are doing with the Ladies Beer League of a kettle of apples.

Garrison Brewing Co. 2014 home brew off is down to less than 2 weeks to get your entries in. I am looking forward to see who this years winner is. For any brewer looking to work with Garrison they are looking to hire one. Check the website for the details.

Granite Brewery in Halifax said they brewed Dunkelbock yesterday. It will be ready around the middle of March.

Rogues Roost ‏announced they're down to the last Keg of Russian Imperial Stout.  They also said that German Bock on the way in a few week.

Uncle Leo's Brewery sent their first shipment of IPA 6-packs off to the NSLC. Should be available soon!

In addition to the four NS brewers working to open breweries there is one more. Chris Killacky, a professor of theology at the Acadia Divinity College is looking to open a nanobrewery hopefully leading to a microbrewery in Wolfville. He is looking into getting zoning so he can do it in his home initially. 

Thanks for everyone for entering my contest so far, there is still time to get in and there will be more opportunities next week. Check out my blog for more details.

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

Maritime Beer Report - January 24, 2014

Hello and welcome to the January 24th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Picaroons Traditional Ales shared that the Lunar Rogue Pub's 25th Anniversary beer will be called: A "PARCEL OF ROGUES"!! The name was submitted by Duncan MacSporran and it will be available January.29th at 7PM for a special launch party!!!

Happy 1st Anniversary to Bridge Brewing and congrats on winning the new business of the year at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce

Garrison Brewing Co. will be at The Stubborn Goat Gastropub at Friday at4:00 with casks of our American Red and Mango IPA and at HMCS King's Wardroom with a Caribbean Hop Yard next week . Finally at Ceilidh's Pub with a Keg (Frikin) of special brew of Scots ale at 4 PM tomorrow

Hart & Thistle Gastroub now has the Commissar Russian Imperial Stout is on tap, From Greg Nash "Rich and luscious with notes of roasted malt, chocolate, coffee, dark fruit, raisins and figs. Complex and full-bodied with excellent balance. Sexy, leggy, deliciousness in your glass" It comes in at 11.0% ABV

Rudder's Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub announced this coming weekend is POUTINE WEEKEND. Friday and Saturday only come in and enjoy a full menu of outrageous poutine's! Choose from the classic Cheese curds and gravy, Nacho poutine, Double cheeseburger poutine or Chili poutine.

Rogue's Roost will host another Brewmaster Monday on thw 27th, its a great way to get to know them and their beer. 

I have a couple of blog posts on the Local Craft Beer abd Food celebration and the Stillwell tap takeover. Stop by and have a read if you missed the events.

One last  note starting February 1st I will be running a draw for 2 VIP tickets to Fredericton Beer Fest on March 8th. I will be releasing details next week

That is it for now, until next week enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - January 10, 2014

Hello and welcome to the January 10th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

CBC reported this week that the Great Canadian Beer Expo is cancelled. From CBC.com:
The Nova Scotia installments of a beer tasting event has been cancelled, just one day after CBC ran a story about how the organizer was selling unauthorized tickets.
"Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Great Canadian Beer Expo has to be postponed at this time," reads an email sent to a Maritime brewery set to take part in the event.
"Because we are unable to set new dates, we will be issuing full refunds to all participants. The refund process has already begun and will be completed by January 31st, 2014."
The emailed is signed, "The GCBE Team."

Credit for breaking this story and alerting CBC goes to a group of guys over on the Brewnosers forum, way to go guys.
Unfortunate turn of events, I heard some are getting refunds already look in to it as soon as possible. I would like mention their are several Beer fest that are approved and been around for at least one year so you shouldn't have reservations about supporting them. 

Big Tide Brewing Co. is brewing Bourbon Stock Ale. It is a Stock Ale that is also known as a winter warmer or a strong ale. It is estimated be about 8% ABV and 50 IBU's and should be ready the week of the 20th at the pub and in growlers.

The Pump House Brewery have a new beer called Pompier à vos garde. From facebook "The style is biere de garde and is brewed in the style of northern France. Biere de garde or Beer to Keep is a traditional french farmhouse beer. Our deep chestnut brown ale is brewed with Crystal malt, Cara dark and good Canadian 2 row malt, Brew master Glenn lightly hops his ale with his own combination of 3 distinctive hops. Fruity esters are evident and despite a 7% ABV there is no noticeable alcohol taste." 

PEI Brewing Company are introducing the new Fathers 2014 Commemorative 4 Pack. The new 4 pack will be shipped to PEI and New Brunswick, sorry Nova Scotia. The four types of beer included in the pack are their Blueberry Ale named 1864, their Coles Cream Ale branded Premier George Coles, their signature Sir John A’s Honey Wheat Ale and Colonel John Hamilton Gray representing their Brown Ale.

Bad Apple Brewhouse has announced their next beer, Black & Tackle, will be available tomorrow at the brewhouse. It is a Russian Imperial Stout that comes in at 9% ABV and as they put it, "it will definitely help with the winter chills!"

Big Spruce Brewing will be releasing a brand new beer at The Craft Beer and Local Food Celebration next Thursday. Tim's Dirty, an American IPA. This was the winning recipe from the winner of the 1st Annual Big Spruce Homebrew Challenge, Tim Gregory. 

Hell Bay Brewing Company released that its English Ale is coming to a participating NSLC near you by the end of the month. Good news for Nova Scotians

Rockbottom Brewpub ‏has set a date for their first beer dinner. It will be January 27th at 6pm. Three courses of food paired with three beers. It will $30 and the menu will be released soon.

Rogue's Roost ‏is having their 2nd Brewmaster Monday event on the 13th with the next one scheduled for January 27th.  Ticket info will be posted next week and i will try to pass it along.

The Stubborn Goat Gastropub has announced their first Cask Friday to go today. They will have a firkin of Garrison Winter Warmer, and a pin of Garrison Spruce Beer. It starts at 4 PM and goes until they are gone. I will report them as I get information.

Stillwell Beer Bar has released the details on their Tap takeover featuring Boxing Rock Brewing and Big Spruce Brewing on January 18th. $10 gets you a glass to take home and a drink ticket. The event starts at noon and runs until 5 pm. Featuring, from Boxing Rock: Many Hands Pale Ale (collab with Bridge Brewing), Hunky Dory Pale Ale, Temptation Red, Crafty Jack English Brown, U-889 Russian Imperial Stout and Vicar's Cross DIPA. From Big Spruce: Tim's Dirty American IPA, Blackout Conundrum, Left Breton Organic Conspiracy Imperial IPA (collab with Crannóg), Regatta Red , Bitter Get'r India Black IPA, Kitchen Party Pale Ale and Cereal Killer Oatmeal Stout. In addition cask ales from both breweries. Tickets are at the bar or for information email tix@barstillwell.com .

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

Maritime Beer Report - December 13, 2013

Hello and welcome to the December 13, 2013 edition of the Maritime Beer Report. 

Big Spruce Brewing's 1st Annual Big Spruce Brewing Home Brew Challenge crowned a winner last Friday. The winner is Tim Gregory of Dartmouth with his Dirty Grain IPA. I look forward to trying it in January.

Boxing Rock Brewing ‏announced Wednesday that they now have U-889 Russian Imperial Stout available at the brewery store and will be at Halifax Seaport Market and Bishops Cellar this weekend. They tell us to think coffee and vanilla.

Garrison Brewing released its seasonal Spruce Beer today in Halifax in bottles and growlers

Hell Bay Brewing Company revealed that once again they are releasing our Black Fog Oatmeal Stout. Hell Bay tells us "This is a dark, rich beer with lots of roasted aroma and flavour with hints of chocolate and coffee along with a silky mouth feel. Available in growlers now and bottles next week." 'Tis the Season!

Paddys Irish Brewpub Kentville shared that "Frost Biter Winter Warmer now available on tap and growlers - Chestnut colour with notes of holiday chocolate and expresses a pleasant warming due to the slightly higher 6% Abv."

Rogues Roost released its Russian Imperial Stout yesterday. I comes in at  8.5% ABV and 55 IBUs. 

Saint John Beerfest is April 5 2014 7:00 PM- 09:30 PM  This event is being held at Market Square. Tickets are VIP - $70 and General Admission - $60.

That is all for this very light news week so until next time, enjoy responsibly

Maritime Beer Report - December 6, 2013

Hello and welcome to the December 6, 2013 edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Congratulations to Joe Goodine of Moncton NB for winning The New Brunswick Home-brew Challenge. The finalist were Marc Levesque (Busy Day Bitter), Kynan Hughson (Raging Grampa), Mark McGraw (The Bitter End), Jake Saunders (British Bulldog Bitter), Brian Steeves (Broadway Bitter) and Joe Goodine (OB Juan).

Picaroons' THE "12 BEERS OF CHRISTMAS" are coming back. Starting next Thursday, December 12 , at THE BREWTQUE in Downtown Fredericton, they will be releasing a different festive brew each day, for 12 days. They will announce the day's beers everyday at 12 NOON, and the beer will be ready for your Growlers starting at 3 PM. Sounds fun.

Pump House Brewery ‏have released on tap their seasonal Nor'Easter Beater Winter Warmer. Dark amber color, big malt presence, subtly spiced with clove, nutmeg, cinnamon and 7% A.B.V. 

Shiretown Beer said their Siren T'ale will be in a ANBL store near you in the near future. 

Authentic Seacoast Brewing is spreading holiday cheer across Nova Scotia this month with free Rare Bird Craft Beer tastings in select NSLC stores, check their facebook page for times and locations. The Full Steam Stout has been making its way to private stores this week and the released their pumpkin seasonal will be available real soon. Exciting times in Guysborough.

Big Spruce Brewing's released a Home Brew Challenge Update "We received 17 sets of samples! Judging will be this Friday Dec 6th, with an announcement shortly thereafter to confirm the winner. Thanks to all that participated, and see you for the release of this exciting beer at the Craft Beer and Local Food Festival in Halifax on Jan 16th" 

Garrison is saying the Spruce Beer is bottled and will be out on December 13th in their retail store.

Hell Bay Brewing is now available at Harvest Wine & Spirits and Cristall Wine Merchants in Halifax, great news for us local fans.

Rogue's Roost 1st Brew Master Monday was held this week to a great crowd. It was a chance to sample all their beers, with an opportunity to talk and ask questions with their brewmaster. It didn't appear to be publicized too well but I hope i can let you know when the next one is. 

Cam from Schoolhouse Brewery reported enjoying a beer with master brewer Greg Nash from Rockbottom Brewpub at the soon to open Bad Apple Brewhouse near Berwick. I emailed the Jeff at Bad Apple for some information and will pass it along if I hear anything.

Sea Level Brewing announced its much loved HIGH STREET WEE HEAVY SCOTCH ALE is in the making. An ale with a complex malty body and a slight hint of smokiness in the finish.

Finally this week Yardarm Holdings who is negotiating opening a new brewery in Bayport has applied to also have a distillery at the site of the former Riverport and District Elementary School. It would be nice to see more movement in this project but for now I will keep watching it.

That is all for this week, send all your news tips to toddthebeerdude@gmail.com and until next time, enjoy responsibly and take care.