Five Nova Scotia Brewers Win At The 2018 Canadian Brewing Awards

Photo from 2 Crows Brewing 

(Halifax, NS) - The 2018 Canadian Brewing Awards were held in Halifax on May 26th with five Nova Scotia brewers taking home nine awards in eight categories. All the winners are in the new wave of brewers starting in the last five years. 

New comer 2 Crows Brewing have been amazing beer lovers in Halifax won a gold Bonanza! Foedre Aged Wheat Wine in the Wood and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer category and two silvers for Dynamo Rustic Saison in the French and Belgian Style Saison category and   Never Again Foedre Aged Brett Pale Ale with Peaches  in the American-style Brett Beer category. 

Photo from Boxing Rock Brewing

Photo from Tatamagouche
Brewing

North Brewing, who have won several CBAs peviously, added a silver in the Kellerbier/Zwickelbier category for its Little Beast, a silver in the  Belgian Style Abbey Ale/Pale Ale category for it perennial favourite Gus’ 65m Ale and a bronze for Oh My Darlin’-Clementine Brett Pale Ale in the American-style Brett Beer category. 

Photo from Meander
River Farm & Brewery

The other winners was Tatamagouche Brewing's Giantess Barley Wine taking silver in Barley Wine-Style Ale – American-Style, Boxing Rock Brewing took a silver in North American Style Amber/Red Ale for Temptation Red Ale and Meander River Farm & Brewery won bronze for its Smoky Chipotle Porter in the Experimental Beer category. 

Full results for the 2018 winners available here.

Meander River expands and Releases Perry Noel

Photo from
Meander River Farms 

(Ashdale, NS) - Meander River Farm‏ and Brewery expanded its facility adding a large cider making component. They released Perry Noel to celebrate. It is 5.5% ABV with 100% Nova Scotian Pears from Davison Farm in Falmouth Nova Scotia. Aromas of earth, crisp grass notes and delicate tropical fruit. Light, dry palate with a natural, unsweetened expression of Nova Scotian pears. Get it now at the farm.

Maritime Beer Report - July 24, 2015

Hello and welcome to the Maritime Beer Report for July 24th.

PEI Brewing Company says the next batch of the Vic Park Hop Sessions is in the tanks - this time with Mandarina Bavaria and the Galaxy hop version still available.

Upstreet Craft Brewing is kicking off a new weekly event on Sunday evenings. They have something for everyone, concerts on the big screen, staff prices on beer, and community board games.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault is celebrating summer with a brand new seasonal beer. Introducing Lt. Ingall- Summer Edition (dry-hopped and different malt for you beer geeks), available now at Brewtique and soon at ANBL growler filling stations.

Grimross Brewing Company says they recently kegged their Oat Saison, a 100% Oat Malt brewed beer. This is an experimental beer for those who cannot tolerate gluten and anyone else that wants a light summer beer. Their Oat Saison was fermented with a Saison strain of yeast. Aroma has hints of clove, the taste is light and crisp with subtle lemon peel and grass. At only 3% ABV you can have a few!

Half Cut Brewing Company opened today. It is Picaroons Traditional Ales' newest incubating brewery, just like the early days of Grimross Brewing Company, Picaroons is lending long time employee and friend, Matt Corey, the brewing system within The Brewtique to get this new brewing project off the ground. Matt was a Picaroons Sales rep from a few years ago and manager of the Picaroons Brewtique.  He’ll be creating various styles of beer based on how he interprets the style they belong to. The first brew is an interpretation of a Dusseldorf Altbier, a malty German ale that offers a generous amount of hop bitterness with a mild fruity nose. Alter Ego is now on tap at the Picaroons Brewtique.

The Pump House Brewery has released a new seasonal release, Rose Hip Ale, brewed with rose hips and orange peel. It is available at the Orange lane location, soon at all ANBL Stores. It comes in at 4.5% ABV.

Big Spruce Brewing and Jason Spears were working on the Tip of the Spear Spruce Tip IPA. Look for it in August where Big Spruce is served.

Meander River Farms says seventy pounds of fresh cut lavender is on its way to Garrison Brewing. Add some honey into the mix and it could only mean one thing, Honey Lavender Ale is brewing.

Wayfarers' Ale has broken ground in Port Williams on its new brewery. Look for more details on this as we move into fall.

On Thursday  August 6th Bar Stillwell is having Toronto's Great Lakes Brewery take over the taps. Great Lakes is a top tier Canadian craft beer company and the beers are worth trying if you can.

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

Maritime Beer Report - June 26, 2015

Hello and welcome to June 26th edition of the Maritime Beer Report

PEI Brewing Company launched their cask program this week with their first offering being a cask of Island Red with bourbon soaked wood chips. Every week they'll have something new on there so they say "Keep your eyes peeled!".

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault is celebrating their first anniversary tomorrow, June 27th, at the brewery. From 1 PM until 6 PM will be an open house and guided tours. At 6 PM there will be a short ceremony and tapping of the anniversary keg followed by music.

Celtic Knot Brewing release a teaser of what they are making this fall. Bruce says he has been wanting to make an oyster stout for quite some time and after he enjoys the summer. Look for notice once the time gets closer

Grimross Brewing is making a new experimental beer and for this one they are getting rid of the gluten, A Table Oat Saison. This will be a very light low alcohol beer (less than 4%), very light body and crisp taste. Brewed with 100% Oat Malt. They can't officially call Oat Saison "Gluten Free" because it was malted and packaged in a malterie that handles other grains, including Barley and Wheat and Grimross obviously handles other grains as well and are not "certified gluten free". As a result there may be trace amounts of other grains.

Breton Brewing is having a soft opening this Saturday June 27th from 10 AM-5 PM. They are releasing their first two beer: Sterling Hefeweizen and Black Angus IPA. Merchandise will also be available. Cash, debit, MasterCard or Visa. Samples will not be available due to licensing situation at the moment. 

Garrison Brewing says that The Coast to Coastless Imperial ESB is now available. In Nova Scotia look for it now at the brewery and private stores and the NSLC shortly. As well, look for it iin ANBL stores and PEILCC stores next month. I gave all the details on last weeks blog.
Garrison also donated $4300.00 to Ecology Action Centre raised at the ‪‎Backlot Bash. Well done.

Meander River Farm is releasing Surf & Turf, Seaweed and Peated Malt Strong Scotch Ale, From Meander "This deep copper, brown ale was mashed with seaweed and peated malt to give it a rich complex flavour of scotch, sweet caramel, slight salt and roasted malt. Surf & Turf was brewed in collaboration with Daniel Girard of Garrison Brewing Co. for the Taste of Nova Scotia "Dinner on the Ocean Floor" event, premiering this weekend. Recommended pairings are red meat dishes and teams fish chowders." This 6.2% ABV beer is on tap this week end at the brewery.

Propeller Brewing latest One Hit Wonder Halifornia Common is on tap at both brewery Prop Shops. Brewed using lager yeast and fermented at ale temperatures Propeller Halifornia Common is a malty brew that finishes dry and crisp, with a lingering hop bitterness. An American West Coast original style that is perfect to quench any beer drinkers thirst for something truly unique. The beer weighs in at 5.2% ABV and 32 IBU.

Sea Level Brewing has their latest seasonal out, Southern Cross IPA. The name is inspired by a Crosby, Stills & Nash song Southern Cross. The IPA is layered with resinous spiciness that gives way to a fresh squeezed citrus aroma with subtle pine notes and comes in at 6.5% ABV.

Tatamagouche Brewing canning line has been busy this week. Look for more and more of Tata's brews to be available in this format going forward.

Producers of craft alcohol In New Brunswick have joined together to form the New Brunswick Craft Alcohol Producers Association (NBCAPA). The purpose of this newly formed association is to act as the representative and formal voice for an expanding industry that includes microbreweries, meaderies, wineries, cider producers and distilleries.
To date membership includes 20 craft producers from all over the province and the expectation is that numbers will continue to grow. The production of craft alcohol has important economic development potential for the province and the goal of the association is to work with multiple stakeholders including the Province and NB Liquor to fully realize this potential. “We know for a fact that we are an important tourist attraction. We have created over 100 jobs in the province; we have a positive impact on our communities and are actively involved in events. We also support local producers. We invest in the province for the province,“ says Sean Dunbar of Northampton Brewing Co.

Tasting NB is bringing together NB craft alcohol producers of all varieties for the first time. This early evening outdoor event takes place across The Capital Complex patios and surrounding area. Producers include Picaroons Traditional Ales, Big Axe Brewery, Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault, TrailWay Brewing Co., Grimross Brewing Co., Railcar Brewing Company, The Pump House Brewery and Restaurant, Gillis of Belleisle Winery, Red Rover Brewing Company, Pollen Angels meade and Fils du Roy. It is taking place Saturday July 11, 2015 from 7 PM - 10 PM enjoy tasting a full range of products at your leisure, then join us for an NB Tap Takeover and afterparty in Wilser’s Room with musical guests Dub Antenna. Join us and see what NB has to offer. Tickets are $55.99 (taxes/fees included) online or in person at the etixnow kiosk located at the Isaac's Way Restaurant building (649 Queen St).

Also on July 11th in Moncton is the NS Craft Beer BBQ Deck Party. The Moncton Beer League is partnering with Chefs Dan & Cheryl McLenaghan from La Teraz and INFUZED Catering for a delectable 4-course menu - each paired with a different Nova Scotia brewed beer, plus an additional welcome beer from Propeller in a souvenir glass you can keep. Doors open at 5pm. Food will be served from platters beginning at 6 PM outside on the deck beside the pool (weather permitting). Indoor seating will be available, but feel free to mingle and enjoy the gorgeous outdoor deck.
Early bird tickets are on sale for $59+fees until June 30th, and $65+fees until Tuesday, July 7th at noon. Ticket sales are final. No refunds.

Join the Ladies Beer League at their Second Beerthday Party on June 27th at The Wooden Monkey Restaurant in Dartmouth. they will have four special casks made by some of our favourite local craft breweries - Boxing Rock Brewing (Rule 42), Big Spruce Brewing (Tims Dirty American IPA) Garrison Brewing (Dry hopped IPA) & North Brewing Company (Summer Saison with sour cherries). Tickets are $25 and include 5 (5oz) cask samples, a belly full of the Wooden Monkey's amazing pizza and - of course - birthday cake. Tickets available online and at the door.

Bishop's Cellar now has a Growler Fill Station and is now open for business featuring brews not easily available in bottle/can. Opening taps are :
Propeller Halifornia Common | Steam | 5.2%
Garrison Coast to Coastless | Imperial ESB | 7.6%
Granite Hopping Mad | Pale Ale | 6.0%
Good Robot Crown on the Ground | Steam| 4.7%
Tatamagouche Butcher's Block Red | Red Ale | 6.0%

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

Maritime Beer Report - June 5, 2015

Hello and welcome to the June 5th edition of Maritime Beer Report.

Big Axe Brewery says just in time for the camping season, Big Axe is serving up Hatchet blonde ale, weighing in at 4.6% ABV that they say is "light and refreshingly hoppy".

Distillerie Fils du Roy released their spring beer, Stella Maris is now available from their small store in Petit-Paquetville in 750 ml bottles. Stella Maris mean in Latin Sea Star and it’s the name of the star in the Acadian Flag. Their inspiration is from the French beer style called ‘’Bière de Garde’’ that can be translated as ‘’Beer to Keep’’. It’s a malty sweet made from French malt and French hops, the beer has 7.5% ABV.

Picaroons Traditional Ales says Melonhead is back and they would like to introduce Sir Winston Snaggletooth (c/o Jordan Stephens). Melonhead is now on tap at the brewtique in Downtown Fredericton, and will be on the shelves at Alcool NB Liquor now.

Breton Brewing is waiting for art work to officially announce their beer names but has shared them with us in the meantime. Their three initial beers are Black Angus IPA, Stirling Hefeweizen and Sons of Hector Brown Ale. Looking forward to their opening later this month. Remember this is our secret.

Garrison Brewing Company has been hinting at their collaboration for months now. What I can tell you it is an Imperial ESB with Phillips Brewing, Flying Monkey Brewing and Trou du Diable. It will be at the Back lot bash next week end but no time frame on when it will be hitting the brewery and the NSLC, but the are saying this month.
Great Lakes Brewery did a collaboration yesterday with Garrison. It is very secretive and I haven't got any details yet.  Garrison did another collaboration recently, see Meander River news.

Good Robot Brewing Company says on Sunday, they officially release their Crown on the Ground steam beer. From Good Robot "Steam beer brewers traditionally used lager (cold-fermenting, crisp) yeast but lacked the funds for proper cooling equipment, so they let the cool San Francisco harbour winds chill the beer naturally. In other words, a steam beer is a common man's lager, a crisp tribute to Americana and music festivals, something to drink all day in the sun or the Chevy Suburban while jamming to malt-rock bands." On Sunday, they'll be playing tunes in the driveway, Halifax Press will be on site, and there will be games they played at those original festivals.

Hell Bay Brewing Company says OPA (oatmeal pale ale) is available this week at the brewery and on tap at select bars. This is a very drinkable ale, crisp hop profile, at 5% ABV and  49 IBUs.

Meander River Farm  has a new release. Summer solstice IPA 4.5% ABV. A balanced hoppy flavour and aroma from Amarillo, Citra hops and dry hopped with Cascade. It was releasing at the Taste of Nova Scotia 12 Tides event. Look for it at Stillwell and on tap at the brewery all weekend.
Daniel Girard from Garrison Brewing and  brewmaster Alan Bailey are putting their heads together to brew a Strong Scotch Ale with seaweed, peated malt and other special ingredients. A unique brew for "Dinner on the Ocean Floor" with the The Flying Apron Cookery and Avondale Sky Winery, put on by Taste of Nova Scotia. More details as I get them.

On the heels of North Brewing Company and Brooklyn Warehouse's beer dinner during Nova Scotia craft beer they announced a new beer-centric restaurant. They have bought the space where Nectar currently resides which is closing this month.

Propeller Brewing Company launched their newest One Hit Wonder Series - Point Pleasant Pale Ale.From Propeller "This single hopped, crisp and balanced brew is true to the American Pale Ale style. Solely Columbus hops were used for the bittering and aroma additions of this brew, and we feel it displays this hop at its best. Enjoy this sessionable Craft Brew!" It is a 27 IBUs and 5% ABV beer.

Sea Level Brewing released its seasonal Apple Blossom Ale. This is made annually in celebration of the Apple Blossom Festival in the Annapolis Valley. It is made with Maritime Malt, California ale yeast, a hop called Calypso, and infused with apple flavour. It is a light 4.8% ABV and available now in cans or kegs. Limited time only.

Stillwell's Beer Garden is near completion. co-owner Christopher Reynolds is hoping to have a soft-opening on Sunday. Watch their social media for announcements.

The long awaited taps at Bishops Cellar are on the way. The growler fill station's fridge has shipped and construction will start in-store next week.  They estimate they will be pouring 5 local brews in just over 2 weeks.

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

Maritime Beer Report - May 15, 2015

Happy Nova Scotia Craft Beer Week and welcome to the May 15th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

As I reported last week PEI Brewing Company has a new beer out today. Say hello to Setting Day Saison that will be available for the next few weeks. From PEIBC "Saisons were traditionally brewed on Belgian farms for field workers during the harvest season. On PEI, our harvest starts as soon as the ice is out of the bay. Setting Day is the day when fishermen sail out under the morning sun in boats loaded with lobster traps and carefully coiled ropes to set their trawls. We brewed this saison with a single malt to mimic the golden morning light and fermented it with a very expressive Belgian yeast to bring loads of flavour to a simple brew. A beer brewed for that moment when you feel the Spring sun on your face and know the season’s work is about to begin." This is a nice 5.9% ABV beer.

Upstreet Craft Brewing introduced two of their beers this week. First beer is Commons Pilsner. It is their take on a Bohemian classic. From UCB "Following tradition we wanted to name our Upstreet Pilsner after its birthplace. In the 18th century, our brewery site was in "the Commons" - the outskirts of Charlottetown proper. Nowadays, you might say we're in the heart of the city, but we really liked the ring of “Commons”. 
The second one is Do-Gooder APA . Again from UCB " [it is] named in tribute to all of the good folks who helped make the Upstreet dream a reality." 

Grimross Brewing Company announced their newest addition to their family of beers, Maritime Pale Ale. Hopilicious! Citrus hop flavor and aroma, with 38 IBU's of bitterness and 5.9% ABV.

Meander River Farm and Brewery has a new summer release, Grist Mill Wheat Ale. From Meander River "A slight forward bitterness, lots of citrus and strawberry with a banana finish." This is a 3.8% ABV beer.

Propeller Brewing Company released its next One Hit Wonder as we roll through Spring. The S'Wheat Life is a 4.5% ABV and  10 IBU beer.

Sea Level Brewing released its Summer Blonde Pilsner: A crisp refreshing pilsner to enjoy on those dog day afternoons of summer. Made from 100% Maritime Malt, Czech Pilsner yeast & an Australian hop aptly named “Summer.” It is a nice 4.2% ABV. 

The Moncton Beer League is partnering with Lake of Bays Brewing Company and local Chefs Dan & Cheryl McLenaghan to bring you a 4-course menu of starter, appetizer, main, and dessert - each paired with a different Lake of Bays beer, plus an additional welcome beer and a special cask beer in a souvenir glass you can keep. This will happen on May 28th, get the details on Moncton Beer League Facebook page.

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

Maritime Beer Report - April 3, 2015

Welcome to the April 3rd edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Barnone Brewing has been very busy, they released a fresh Sessions asking if we remember the Solstice last year and this one has Citra. They also had Black Eye IPA, Pale, IPA, and some American Wheat last night and was brewing 'La Vaca Loca' Milk Stout.

Gahan House Pub in Charlottetown has released Angus Ale in conjunction with its burger week. Angus Ale is an unfiltered pale ale, dry hopped so lots of citrus aroma. It is 5% ABV and an 25 IBUs.

PEI Brewing Company says Reanimator is available in 473mL cans in their retail store. In case you forgot it is a 8.1% ABV Bock.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault released its  Lancaster KB882 amber lager this week in growlers. It is a 4.6% ABV lager. I mentioned this before as they honor a Lancaster bomber that has been in the town for 50 years.

Grimross Brewing Company introduces the Serendipity Series with its first offering of an Abbey beer. From Grimross "As a brewer, exploring new ideas and new recipes is half the fun of what we do. This is what our Serendipity Series is all about. Whenever the opportunity arises we will try new recipes, new ingredients, new techniques and processes in order to explore the world of beer and brewing... and we want to share them with you." For the first one they experimented with a new Malt from a micro-malterie in Quebec and a new Abbey yeast. It is a single Abbey beer, meaning it is lower alcohol and the ale the Monks would save and drink for themselves. Grimross ran a naming contest so we will see a name for this soon.

Hammond River Brewing as I reported, brewed their last batch of Breakfast stout for the season but put some of it on an oak barrel for aging, look for this barrel aged beer in a few weeks.

Picaroons Traditional Ales is once again asking for your cat. Cat picture that is, they are once again getting the Melonhead label ready and need your hi-res picture that they can use. Get all the details on their website and the deadline is April 24. There is also a special Easter treat at the Brewtique on Saturday April 4th. They have a keg of Irish Red dry-hopped with Golding Hops, a keg of Man's Best Friend dry-hopped with Tettnang hops, a keg of Blonde dry-hopped with Cascade hops and a keg of Yippee IPA dry-hopped with Amarillo hops.

The Pump House Brewery announced tickets for the expanded Atlantic Beer Fest are now for sale. Tickets are 55.00 for the Friday or Saturday evening session and 45.00 for the Saturday afternoon session. The oldest festival in the Maritimes grew from 600 beer fans in its inaugural year to 3000 last year with 60 breweries from across Canada, the USA and beyond. New this year is the Friday evening session and plans on adding a Belgium pavilion that will feature hard to find Belgian Beers along with Belgian food and all patrons of the festival will get a chance to win a once in a life time beer vacation to Belgium that includes visits to centuries old Trappist breweries.

Hell Bay Brewing Company celebrated its 4th birthday this week and say as a special thanks they will be sending Dark Cream Ale to a NSLC near you in early May. 

Meander River Farm says Ashdale Honey Brown is brewing and Lunch Box and Shack Wacky cider will be on tap this weekend in addition to a few growlers of Smokey Chipotle Porter left. They are open regular hours this Easter weekend.

Propeller Brewing says its latest One Hit Wonder, Peated Scotch Ale, is available for Growler fills right now. I hear it is quite good and at  7.1 % ABV it will warm you up on these cool Spring nights.

The Townhouse Brewpub & Eatery are closing for a 10 day break (April 4-13) while the owners get some R&R and explore Real Ale in the UK. Follow their adventures on facebook and stay tuned.

One last item, I see Bar Stillwell have a new beer out called Crush. It is an unfiltered lager with Nelsom Sauvin hops that comes in at 6.1% ABV.

That is it for this week, enjoy what is a long week end for most of us and until next time enjoy responsibly.

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.

Maritime Beer Report - September 26, 2014

Hello and welcome to September 26th edition of the Maritime Beer Report. 

Oktoberfest is in the air and the PEI Brewing Company has several events planned. The 2nd Annual Growler Challenge and the first Art Battle of the season all happening on October 18th. Watch here for more details. PEIBC also announced new growler prices, it will now cost 11 dollars for a regular fill and 13 to top up with a seasonal.

AWOL Brewery is to be congratulated on taking number one for Canada in the SJPORR Challenge for his D.A.G. Red and is now going to the internationals. The DAG Red is an amber ale with Rye Soaked Oak chips. Good luck and that judging will be in December. 

Big Axe Brewery has released their new Rusty Axe Amber Ale. From Big Axe "Rusty Axe Amber ale is brewed with brown sugar glazed carrots, roasted squash and homemade brittle, it boasts mild flavours of fall vegetables, hints of vanilla and cinnamon. This beer erupts with soft caramel flavour, mild hoppy taste, followed by a well rounded malty middle and finishes off with a hint of the harvest spices like nutmeg and clove". This is a 5.6% ABV and 28 IBUs ale and will soon be available at pubs in Fredericton.

Big Tide Brewing Company says its Indian Beach Pumpkin Ale smells "soooo good in the brew house this morning. All of the spicy warm flavors of the pumpkin ale brewing and the aroma of fresh Cascade and hallertau hops". Watch for this one soon.

Picaroons Traditional Ales announced a couple of "surprise" beers this week. Page Turner is an amber session ale, made with Gooseberries, brewed in celebration of Goose Lane Editions 60th Anniversary. It will be available on tap at The Brewtique beginning October 3rd, coinciding with Goose Lane's anniversary celebrations and UNB's celebrated "Poetry Weekend". It will also be available at Goose Lane's anniversary events in Toronto on September 30 and at James Joyce Irish Pub Fredericton on October 3rd. Picaroons will be donating proceeds to Laubach Literacy New Brunswick. 
Picaroons also announced the Tabulator. It is a "conservative Extra Special Bitter that's been dry-hopped quite liberally with an uncountable amount of green hops". It is a limited edition small batch brew and was tapped at 10 AM at The Brewtique in Downtown Fredericton. They also say it may possibly some other places too

Railcar Brewing Company has a couple of items this week, first they are looking for a part time cashier / growler filler. To apply email resume to mitch@railcarbrewing.com. Second Mitch says "after today’s ANBL visit it could be another 2 to 4 weeks before we are open for growler sales. As the next Board of Directors meeting is not until October 10th. All inspections are now done and we are just awaiting listings and Brewery Agency Store agreement. Will keep everyone updated as we know more. Thanks for your support and patience" 

Authentic Seacoast Brewing Company had pictures up this week of employees spicing and roasting pumpkins for their Rare Bird Craft Beer Pumpkin Ale. Look for this one probably next month.

Garrison Brewing Company released Sweet Rye'd Harvest Wheat Ale, its collaboration beer with  Beau's All Natural Brewing that I talked about a couple of weeks ago. They say that this tasty harvest ale features Rye and Beau's own Bog Myrtle.  They also say "Spicy and aromatic, this is the fall brew you have been waiting for! $12.95 here at the brewery and Private Stores. This beer weighs in at 6.0% ABV, and 40 IBUs.They also tell me that a couple of beers will be released next week end during City Harvest, There perennial favorite 3 Fields as well as a 8% ABV pumpkin brew called Double Jack.

Meander River Farm released their wet-hopped pale ale, Meander River Homegrown. All of the hops in this one batch, seasonal brew were grown on the Farm in Ashdale. 

Propeller Brewing Company release two of their seasonals this week, Pumpkin Ale and Nocturne Dark Lager. These are available at both Propeller shops now and the pumpkin at least a few select locations.

Tatamagouche Brewing Company says their first seasonal, Lagerhosen, is now available. It is available in growlers, kegs and 650mL bottles as well as at all THREE Oktoberfest events this weekend.

Tickets are now on sale for New Brunswick Beer Tours, On November 1st spend a full day exploring brewers up the Saint John River valley north of Fredericton. This trip starts and ends at King Street Ale House and visits three breweries with cider samples and a lunch included. Tickets available now on eventbrite. 

If you are in the Portland Hills area of Dartmouth stop by Piez Bistro for Sociables for Prostates. For 10 dollars you get three Piez bites and three Nova Scotia Craft Beer samples. Best of all five bucks goes to help research a cure that affects 1 in 8 men in Canada.

That is all for this week and however you decide to spend this first week end of autumn, enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - September 19, 2014

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

Big Axe Brewery brewed their first batch of  Seasonal Harvest Ale they are kegging it tomorrow and say to stay tuned, what I can say is they showed a bowl of carrots, squash and toffee.

Big Tide Brewing Company brewed Indian Beach Harvest Ale this week with fresh Cascade and Nugget hops grown at Dunhams Run vineyard. Indian Beach Nut Brown is a classic, British style Brown Ale,brewed with a blend of Canadian and European malts.

Hammond River Brewing says that the ANBL contacted them asking if  they would participate in their Growler program at the KV store. This is thanks to you taking time to contact ANBL and request growlers of their beers. HRB beer will be starting October 2nd at the KV store available for Growler fill ups. As a tribute to his Dad, the beer that he is choosing to kick off the program is Gammie California Steam Ale. In other HRB news they are brewing up inaugural Pumpkin Spiced Ale and should be available on tap in about 2.5 weeks. Also, in the next week or so, they'll be brewing up another new beer and it will be an Imperial Vanilla Porter. This beer won a gold medal last year in Calgary in a home brew competition. HRB plans on having two versions of this beer, the Vanilla Porter itself, and another with Bourbon added. 

Picaroons Traditional Ales released seven different batches of Harvest Ale, each brewed with maritime malts, and single hopped with different  fresh, local, hops from their hop farmer friends around the maritimes. One batch will be the Kitchen Sink batch which will have a plethora of all the hops from all farms. You can once again find out about HARVEST ALE's hops and farmers by checking out the batch number on your bottle and going to the Picaroons web  site to check which hops and from where. Cool concept.

The Pump House Brewery released their latest Seasonal Brew, the Oktoberfest Bier. Now available at the Orange Lane location.

Railcar Brewing Company received their brewers licence this week so now they only need to get product listed. Congrats to Mitch.

Shiretown Beer Black Currant Wheat is ready and at the brewery in a very limited quantity. The colour on this one looks fantastic

Big Spruce Brewing is brewing its first pumpkin beer and for this one he is smoking the pumpkin. They also say that their first keg of Harvest Double IPA is on tap at the brewery. Hoppily Remarried is 7.1% ABV

Boxing Rock Brewing Company has been busy these past few weeks. Not only have they commissioned a new fermentation tank, effectively doubling their capacity from this time last year but their Many Hands Harvest Ale collaboration with North Brewing will go on sale tomorrow. It is available on tap in select locations and in growlers.

Gahan House - Halifax reports Karen's upcoming beers with release dates will be Maple Whisky Porter tomorrow, Belgian Pale Ale today and Peach Wit on September 26th. They are also introducing 'Brewster on the Bar' starting next Tuesday, September 23rd. during which they will have a cask of Coffee Porter on the bar.

Meander River Farm had its 5th Annual Hop Harvest last week end. They send thanks to everyone who helped out and their farm yielded 174 pounds of hops this year with 134 pounds for Garrison and 40 pounds for their own brewery.

Propeller Brewing Company says their Organic Ale rolls out to NSLC stores Sept 29th. and their Pumpkin Ale is out now and available at both Prop Shop locations.

Sea Level Brewing's seasonal New Scotland Heather Ale is now on shelves. This hybrid ale uses locally grown heather flowers and a unique combination of wet-hopped Cascade, Fuggles and Hallertau hops grown on Sea Level’s own hop farm. This beer is ABV  5% and approximately 20 IBUs. Their 355ml Cans will also be at Bishops Cellar, Cristall Wine Merchants, Premier Wines and Spirits and Harvest Wines and Spirits and on tap at Stillwell, Obladee Wine Bar, Agricola Street Brasserie, and Auction House. Sea Level is predicting it will be around for two weeks.

LOCAL CONNECTIONS HALIFAX started selling tickets for the Craft Beer & Local Food Celebration at The Halifax Club on January 15th. This was a great event last year and the tickets are going fast, if you want to go don't wait as they will be gone soon. 

Halifax Oktoberfest is tomorrow in Halifax and is always a good time.

Mirella Amato, Canada's only Master Cicerone and author of "Beerology" is coming to Halifax. Please join the Ladies Beer League for a very special book launch and signing with Mirella Amato on October 6th from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Lion & Bright.  Tickets are on sale now and it includes the book. 

That is all for this week, until next time enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - September 5, 2014

Hello and welcome to the September 5th edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

Barnone Brewing in PEI released that they are brewing a Schwartz (Black) IPA soon. They go on to say they will be using  2 row and Black Printz malts. 

Celtic Knot Brewing has been busy and said their Ring of Fire was delivered all four pubs this week. He says to "watch out it's pretty fiery". The brewer also goes on to say for this years Halloween they will unleash Frankenbeer. You've been warned.

Hammond River Brewing has released their last summer seasonal beer, a Watermelon Wheat Ale. It's brewed with all fresh Watermelons, is 20 IBUs, and is 5.6% ABV.Currently on tap at Bourbon Quarter and The Saint John Ale House. They also says it is harvest time and a wet hopped Harvest Ale will be brewed shortly after. They are growing cascade hops and seven other different varieties there at HRB.  In other HRB beer news, a Pumpkin Spiced Ale and their gold medal winner Vanilla Porter will also be brewed in the near future. Sounds like a very busy fall for the brewery.

Picaroons Traditional Ales says that Selection Double IPA is now on tap at the Brewtique in Downtown Fredericton, and at the Alcool NB Liquor Prospect St. location in Uptown Fredericton. It is a limited release so get it while you can for this one. They also announced that the 2014 edition of its Harvest Ales is now being brewed with hops from Southan Farms. They'll be hitting the taps and shelves in a couple of weeks. 

Pump House Brewery in Moncton celebrated its 15th Anniversary this week and did something very special. At their brewery on Mill Road they used a method similar to what was used in the middle ages. They attempted to make a Stein Bier, or Stone beer, where super heat rocks were dropped in to bring the wort to a boil. I was there and it was very interesting to see. Watch for my blog post on this.

Railcar Brewing Company is looking for help, if you remember a while back RBC called for label designs. Well they got 12 great designs and now they are looking for fans to vote what label you like the best for its Railcar Red. To do this go to their facebook page and "like" the design you like the best. You do need to do that before Thursday at 12 noon September 11, 2014. 

Sunset Heights Meadery in New Brunswick have received word that they are approved for a manufacturer's agency store license, which allows them to sell directly to licensees, as well as the public at farmers' markets. Your next chance to sample is at Feast in the Field on Sunday.

Boxing Rock Brewing Company released good news, Crafty Jack is back. It is available in 3 sizes: 650ml, 1l, and 1.89l.

Garrison Brewing Company has release the beer style for this years Home Brew-Off. This years style is Robust Porter, that is 12B in the BJCP style guide. Stay tuned for more information.

Meander River Farm picked 30 lbs of hops off their yard for their very first one hop, wet-hop seasonal brew. It will be available in a few weeks. They do like a hoppy beer up there.

Propeller Brewing Company has released their latest One Hit Wonder, it is Orbit Ale and  is now available for Growlers at both of our locations in Halifax and Dartmouth. The brew is a 5.6% ABV and 35 IBUs. They were also up at Howard Dills Pumpkin Farm this week hinting at what is coming soon for all you pumpkin ale fans.

Tatamagouche Brewing Company have deliberated and named their Oktoberfest beer. It will be LAGERHOSEN. Sean Stager entered the winning name. This beer will be available at the Tatamagouche 35th Annual Oktoberfest on September 26-27.

Townhouse Brewpub & Eatery are planning to host a local food and beer dinner on September 20th. Join them to celebrate all the wonderful local food we have access to this time of year and two of our great local brewers! This event is part of the 50% Local Club - an organization asking individuals, businesses, and institutions in NS to pledge to make 50% of their meals or grocery bills local food for the month of September. The dinner will be 4 or 5 courses featuring the wares of local producers each paired with a special beer from The Townhouse Brewery or Big Spruce.

I am excited to announce the Atlantic Canadian Beer Awards coming this October. The Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers is proud to announce the First Annual Atlantic Canadian Beer Awards. Mirella Amato, Canada’s only Master Cicerone, will be in Halifax to host a number of beer related activities, culminating in a Beer Awards gala at The Stubborn Goat on Sunday October 5th. This is a BJCP-sanctioned event with awards for beers in 15 categories, plus "Beer of the Year", "Brewery of the Year" and "Brewpub of the year".

The ACBA is funded by the Canadian Association for Professional Sommeliers - Atlantic Chapter, and sponsored by The Stubborn Goat, Bar Stillwell, The Pub Magazine and Chronicle Herald and in partnership with Ladies Beer League, The Brewnosers and Atlantic Canada Beer Blog. 

Everyone going to one of sessions at the Prince Edward Island Beer Festival this week end let me know what was your favorite. 

That is all I have for this week so until next week enjoy responsibly and take care. 

Maritime Beer Report - August 22, 2014

Hello and welcome to the August 22nd edition of the Maritime Beer Report.

PEI Brewing Company released their new Harvest Time Golden Lager. It comes in at 12 IBU and  4 %, ABV. It has a hoppy flavour and uses New Zealand hop varieties. On tap and available in 473mL cans now only in their retail store.

Les Brasseurs du Petit-Sault and Picaroons Traditional Ales are taking over the taps at Resto-Bar Le Deck on Friday, August 29th. Surprises are in store and none other than the Carson Downy Band will be on hand as musical guests.

Celtic Knot Brewing started brewing their first batch of  "Ring of Fire". This beer will be brewed with 40% smoked malt and will be spiced up with Habanero and Jalapeno peppers. They  recently reformulated the pale ale recipe and started brewing it again because as the brewer says "I was never quite happy with it." He goes on to say "Look forward to much more flavorful and hoppy American pale ale"

The Pump House Brewery is going middle ages to celebrate their 15th anniversary. I am kind of excited about this one, the are making a Steinbier using the authrentic methods of dropping heated rocks into wooden vessels to bring the wort to a boil. If you want to be part of this the are issuing special invitations to join them on September 3rd on their facebook page

Authentic Seacoast Brewing Company released Rare Bird Craft Beer Spruce Ale on tap at the Rare Bird Pub. They say this beer takes them back to its Maritime brewing roots that started on the Guysborough harbour in 1659. This ale weighs in at 5.5% ABV. 

Big Spruce Brewing has been unusally quiet this week but did say that their new Hoppuccino Coffee IPA is on tap for growler and yapper fills. This one if you forget is the international collaboration brew all organic and ready now.

Garrison Brewing Co.  announced that Tall Ship is now in 650ml bomber bottles at the NSLC. They also say after an extended absence their Honey Lavender Ale is also back on the shelves, Brewed at 6% ABV, with local lavender from Meander River Farm and Nova Scotia Honey. This delicate and sophisticated strong ale is now available in the retail store for $5 a bottle. I got to try some of the cask version at the Seaport Beerfest and it was exceptional.
Garrison is also looking for enthusiastic, part-time folks to help out in our retail store, at promotional events and NSLC tastings. If you're interested send your resume to jgreen@garrisonbrewing.com. They have also put out a call for volunteers for Halifax Oktoberfest. For this one email marketing@garrisonbrewing.com if you're interested in helping out on Sept 20th.

I got to try Meander River Farms and Brewery's new one off last Saturday. It is a wheat beer that is quite good and comes in at 3.8% ABV. They tell me it isn't around for long and the Lunch Box will be back as soon as its gone. 

Propeller Brewing Company will release the first installment of their Lambic-style tomorrow at Bar Stillwell, by the bottle or by the glass. There is only about 200 bottles so if you can't make it make sure to get to Propeller on Monday to get yours.

Schoolhouse Brewery released that they are now also available at the Kings Arms Pub in Kentville.

Uncle Leo's Brewery announced the launch of their 750 ml Flip Top Growlers. They are priced at $10 each which is a $5 deposit and a $5 fill and refill. This week end, while supplies last,  receive a free 2 growler tote with the purchase of two 750 ml flip top growlers & a free 4 growler tote with the purchase of four 750 ml flip top growlers. They also note that during this promotion they will not be accepting the return of Uncle Leo's 1.89L Growlers. We will begin accepting 1.89L growler returns again when we open on Wednesday.

That is all for this week, there is a lot going on this week end so get out there and take it in and as always enjoy responsibly.

Maritime Beer Report - August 8, 2014

Hello and welcome to the Maritime Beer Report for August 8, 2014. 

Gahan House is busy hiring for their new location in Halifax, if you are interested in a job check out their website. Check out my blog post about their newest location.

Picaroons Traditional Ales has brewed up a limited release Apricot Ale, Pride Sally Pride. It is available The Brewtique, Vault 29, 540 Kitchen & Bar, The Lunar Rogue Pub, and boom! Nightclub! It was created in cohoots with the Fredericton Pride Committee. Picaroons has also brought back for a limited time their 506 Logger beer. 

Red Rover Brewing say that they will be the first New Brunswick a Brewery (cidery) selling refillable bottles at a Farmers Market this Saturday. Get a Refillable 1L Flagon at Boyces Farmers Market in Fredericton.

Big Spruce Brewing announced that the Tasting Deck now open and it looks great. They also released Pump Le Mousse, the grapefruit wheat ale that I mentioned a few weeks ago. They also say that they have "Nova Scotia's first internationally conspired brew - a Coffee IPA brewed with fresh organic dark roast coffee from Café Milagro in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. We proudly mashed this in today with Bryan Druhan, brewer at Phillips Brewing in Victoria, BC. "

Garrison Brewing Company released they have a bunch more jobs available. From the brewer "As our brewery expands, so does our team! Check out the following positions: Shift Brewer, Packaging Supervisor, Bottling Line Labourer, and Marketing, Events & Retail Coordinator".

Meander River Farm announced they have Honey Brown. From MRF"Made with toasted malts and local Cosman & Whidden Honey, this lightly hopped 5.2% ABV copper coloured brew shows a light coffee flavour on the front, a rich toffee taste in the middle and a smooth honey finish. Stop by the Farm today and Friday from 4-7 or Saturday and Sunday 11-5 for a taste and growler fill while it lasts!"

Propeller Brewery has announced the upcoming launch of a new series of beers . From the Canadian Beer News "The Propeller Lambic Style Series is a collection of beers inspired by the classic wild and sour ales of Belgium, and described as follows:

Propeller Lambic Style has been brewed in keeping with its origins using unmalted wheat and aged hops. We fermented this unique brew using yeast similar to that found indigenously in the Senne Valley of Belgium, southwest of Brussels. Aged in oak wine barrel, this brew displays tart, musty and complex flavours.

Four beers are planned to be released in the series, with the first being Propeller Framboise, a 4.2% sour beer brewed with whole raspberries, and bottle conditioned for several months to add “effervescent and refreshing carbonation.”

Propeller Framboise will be debuted on Saturday August 23rd at Bar Stillwell in Halifax, where it will be available by the bottle or glass while supplies last. Retail sales of 750 ml bottles will launch the following Monday August 25th at both Propeller stores."

Rock Bottom Brewpub will have Thulsa Doom II DIPA On tap Friday, August 8th at 5:00 PM. Coming in at a healthy  8.8% ABV and 130 (calculated) IBUs. 

The Townhouse Brewpub & Eatery released that now on tap they have Terrys British IPA, 5.4% ABV.

If you see me tomorrow afternoon at Seaport Beer Fest say "Hi", so until next time enjoy responsibly. 

Cask List released for Garrison Brewings Cask Takeover of Stillwell Beer Bar June 21, 2014

Here are the casks announced for Garrison Brewing's cask takeover event of Stillwell Beer Bar on June 21st.

Cask 1 Spiceman's Session Saison - Spiced Belgian-style Saison with Spiceman's Casia buds and Wild Voatsiperifery Pepper.

Cask 2 - Christmas in June - Pale Spruce Ale with Meander River Farm's Lunch Box Pale Ale and Garrisons Spruce Beer.

Cask 3 - Summit Buzz - Vanilla Expresso Brown with Spiceman's Vanilla Bean and Javablend K2 expresso.

Cask 4 - Peanut Butter Jelly Time - PB&J Brown Ale with peanut butter and Noggins Farm Raspberries.

Cask 5 - Some Like It Hot - Tall Ship Amber Michelada with Chef Graeme's own spicy michelada mix

Cask 6 - Blueberry Raj - Spiced American Wheat with Acadian Maple Products Blueberry Juice and The Tea Brewey Masala Chai

Cask 7 - Brand New and Already Bitter - XXXtra dry hopped IPA, Garrison IPA with Citra and Amarillo hops.

Cask 8 - Makin' Bacon - Maple Bacon Ale with Sugar Moon Farm's Maple Syrup and Chef Graeme's own bacon rum.

Cask 9 - Imperial Mystery ???

Cask 10 - Lovers Quarrel - Belgian-style Spiced Wit with Wild Camomile and rosehips.

Cask 11 - My Thai Wheat - Thai/American Wheat with Pineapple , Mint and Kafir Lime Leaves from Pete's Frootique

Cask 12 - La Moreno Loco - Chocolate Chili Brown with Alex's Chili Peppers and Rawthentic Cayenne Dark Chocolate & Cacao Nibs

The first sip session is sold out and the session at 2 PM is first come first serve. Drop me a tweet and let me know what you think or if you see me there say hi and tell me.