The Maritime Beer Report reports on beer, breweries, events and more in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Alexander Keith's Brewery Goes Small
(Halifax, NS) - The most historic and storied brewery in Nova Scotia, Alexander Keith’s, blew the dust off its mothballed 20 BBL system on Lower Water Street to start a small batch brewing program. To make this happen a newly appointed brewmaster Stefan Gagliardi was brought in to create locally-inspired beer that celebrate the people, history and heritage of Nova Scotia.
Being named brewmaster for such an iconic brewery is an incredible honour,” says Gagliardi, who has been working in the beer community for over 10 years. “I’m excited to tap into the Alexander Keith’s spirit of innovation and create new, great tasting brews that are as unique as the people who live and work in Nova Scotia.”
On June 16th the first two beers were revealed at a large launch event. Cornerstone Edinburgh Pale Ale (4.3% ABV), named for the cornerstone laid during the original construction of the Halifax brewery, Cornerstone is symbolic of the brewery's solid foundation and its inaugural brew for a new era. The new beer is inspired by brewing techniques of two centuries ago in Edinburgh, where Mr. Keith spent time perfecting his brewing craftmanship in the 1800s. Colder temperatures give the beer a sweeter malt profile, and the late addition of English hops round off the beer’s citrus and herbaceous hop aromas.The second beer is Lunenburg Coffee and Cacao Stout (6.5% ABV), that uses 5 kilograms of Laughing Whale Coffee from Lunenburg.
In addition to the new brewing a new tour experience at the historic brewery. The seasonal and limited edition beers crafted at the brewery will be sold in kegs, growlers, 650 ml bottles, and six-pack bottles, onsite at the Lower Water Street location, through the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation, and in select bars and restaurants throughout the province with new brews being unveiled throughout the year.