As winter settles in and the holiday season approaches, craft breweries across BC are unwrapping their most creative and festive beer offerings yet.
Winter beers have a special magic about them. Often darker and more robust, these carefully crafted ales and stouts are perfectly designed for the colder months. But it’s not just about the comforting warmth of a dark beer: this year’s lineup balances rich, hearty styles with lighter, more refreshing options—many incorporating seasonal fruits and spices in surprising and delightful ways–plus a hefty dose of hoppy brews.
We asked breweries on the BC Ale Trail to share what they’ve been brewing up, and they delivered: we’re spotlighting over 100 exceptional beers this year, showcasing the incredible creativity and craftsmanship of our local breweries.
These seasonal brews are more than just beverages: they’re perfect for gifting, elevating gatherings with friends and family, and sharing your local pride when hosting visitors. Whether you’re searching for the ideal companion to a cozy evening by the fire or a standout beverage to bring to a holiday gathering, ’tis the season to show off the flavours and sense of place that make your corner of BC special, one thoughtfully crafted beer at a time.
Jump to a region near you:
- Kootenay Rockies
- Northern BC
- Thompson Okanagan
- Vancouver Coast and Mountains (includes the Fraser Valley, Sea to Sky and Sunshine Coast)
- Vancouver Island
Kootenay Rockies
• Center Pole Pilsner (4.7% ABV) by Backroads Brewing Company
A light and refreshing German-style Pilsner, perfect for après, brewed in collaboration with Whitewater Ski Resort in honour of their 50th anniversary season.
Find Backroads Brewing Company in Nelson, BC, on the Kootenay Rockies West Ale Trail, and in Osoyoos, BC
• First Chair White IPA (6% ABV | 25 IBU) by Fernie Brewing Co
Catch the first chair with this citrusy White IPA. Bright & smooth, just like your favourite run on a bluebird day. A medium-bodied brew with lingering notes of zesty citrus & lively carbonation, First Chair features a balanced hoppy bitterness & subtle fruity spice. Loaded with Centennial & Citra hops, this White IPA is worth an early start to snag the front of the lift line.
And watch for the Backdrop Chocolate White Stout, coming soon! 5.6% ABV and 20 IBU. Light & smooth with creamy notes of cocoa, this Chocolate White Stout is the perfect backdrop to a winter day. A medium-bodied brew, Backdrop is silky & slightly sweet, finishing with a gentle earthy bitterness. Rich and roasted, featuring real cocoa husks and nibs, this Chocolate White Stout holds its own in FBC’s limited release line-up.
Find Fernie Brewing Co. in Fernie, BC, on the Kootenay Rockies East Ale Trail
• Two new releases from Rumpus Beer Company
Bodacious – Super Mega Session Ale (2.6% ABV | 18 IBU)
Bodacious is the in-between beer you never knew you needed. In fact, if you’re not already excited about where this fits in your life, the folks at Rumpus are probably not talking to you. Brewed with oats, BC grown Triumph hops, and a kiss of Azacca Cryo, it goes down crisp, clean, and easy. Pairs well with a good conversation, and maybe a few more.
Chrysalis – Foeder Aged Saison (5.3% ABV | 35 IBU)
Chrysalis is the latest pull from the oak foeder at Rumpus Beer. A classic beer of contradiction, it manages to be wildly complex and very crushable at the same time. Brewed with raw spelt, raw emmer, and Czech Saaz hops, then fermented with a blend of Saison and Brett yeast strains in addition to the resident microbiome of the foeder. They’ve keg-conditioned most of the batch straight up, but will also have a few one-off side hits throughout the winter, which will be blended with other beers or dry-hopped with some rad hop extracts from New Zealand.
Find Rumpus Beer Company in Revelstoke, BC, on the Kootenay Rockies East Ale Trail
• Party Laps Hazy Session IPA (4.5% ABV | 25 IBU) from Tailout Brewing
When Tailout Brewing and RED Mountain Resort team up, you know it’s going to be a good time. Party Laps is an easy-drinking hazy session IPA brewed for those perfect après moments—swapping stories about the day’s best turns, secret stashes, and non-stop laps with your crew. Soft, juicy, and refreshingly crushable, it’s your go-to companion from first chair to last call. Let’s gooo!
Find Tailout Brewing in Trail, BC, on the Kootenay Rockies West Ale Trail
Northern BC
• London Fog Ale (5% ABV) by Cask and Cleaver Brewing
Inspired by the classic London Fog, this ale is smooth, cozy, and lightly sweet. Vanilla and lactose add a soft, creamy body, while subtle Earl Grey–style bergamot and black tea notes bring a gentle, familiar warmth.
Find Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House, BC
• Phoenix Rising Ale (5.5% ABV) by CrossRoads Brewing & Distilling
Golden and bright, dry hopped with Citra and Cascade hops
Find CrossRoads Tap and Kitchen in Prince George, BC, on the Northwest BC Ale Trail
• Ullr’s Coconut Porter (6.3% ABV | 38 IBU) by Fox Mountain Brewing
Brewed in honour of Ullr, the God of Snow and Patron Saint of Skiers. This is a robust porter that is mellowed with copious additions of toasted coconut and a hint of vanilla from fresh vanilla beans. Decadent.
Find Fox Mountain Brewing in Williams Lake on the Northeast BC Ale Trail
• Three new brews from Sherwood Mountain Brewhouse
Silent Night Belgian Ale (7.25% ABV | 25 IBU)
Illuminated with flavours of coriander, cloves, star anise, licorice, juniper, and vanilla, this is a winter warmer.
Hello Gourdgeous Porter (7.6% ABV | 25 IBU)
This porter is everything you need in a drink: pumpkin, spices, and coffee, with perfectly blended flavours to produce the ultimate seasonal beer.
Seven Sisters Stout (4.8% ABV | 25 IBU)
A dark ale with distinct roasted character & hints of dark chocolate & coffee.
Find Sherwood Mountain Brewhouse in Terrace, BC, on the Northwest BC Ale Trail
• Old Man Winter (7.8% ABV) by Smithers Brewing Co
This beer will launch in early January and is a local favourite! It won Silver at the Canadian Brewing Awards this year. It is a Scottish-style dark ale with bold caramelized sugar and toffee flavours, and a sweet finish. This beer is from the Skeena Seasonal Series, in partnership with Canadian artist Roy Henry Vickers. The partnership with Roy showcases the true essence of Northwest BC and the Skeena Valley. There are a total of four beers, one representing each season; Old Man Winter is the winter beer of this series.
Find Smithers Brewing Co in Smithers, BC, on the Northwest BC Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Two Peaks Brewing
Coffee Lager (5% ABV)
This beer is a classic style with a smooth and balanced taste that is sure to please beer drinkers and coffee enthusiasts alike. This small-batch lager is crafted in collaboration with Bugwood Coffee, located in Smithers, BC.
Smoked Ale (5.4% ABV)
This beer has a malty backbone with hints of caramel. The bitterness from the hops helps to balance the sweetness of the malt, creating a well-rounded flavour profile with smoky notes.
Find Two Peaks Brewing in Kitimat, BC, on the Northwest BC Ale Trail
Thompson Okanagan
• Two new brews from Abandoned Rail Brewing Co.
Harvest Moon Dark IPA (6% ABV | 40 IBU)
This dark IPA opens with a touch of hop bitterness before settling into a rich malt backbone that carries notes of toasted grain and cocoa. Finished with juice from the cherries that grow beside the brewery’s picnic tables, it ends with a gentle tartness that ties it all together.
Bellhop Porter (5.8% ABV | 60 IBU)
Bellhop is a multi-award-winning brew, including gold medals at the Canadian Brewing Awards and Canada Beer Cup for the past 3 years. This malty, medium-bodied porter has a smooth mouthfeel with notes of roasted coffee and cacao.
Find Abandoned Rail Brewing Co. in Penticton, BC, on the Penticton Ale Trail
• Nutty Owl Vanilla Chestnut Ale (5% ABV | 20 IBU) by Barn Owl Brewing
A warm hug in a glass. This winter ale is lovingly made with roasted chestnuts and real vanilla. There’s a reason that people ask for this seasonal beer year-round.
Find Barn Owl Brewing in Kelowna, BC on the Kelowna and West Kelowna Ale Trail
• Back Hand of God Stout (5.2% ABV) by BNA Brewing Co (Crannóg Ales)
In cans for the first time in its 25-year history, Back Hand of God is ready for the masses! After BNA Brewing began brewing the storied recipes from Crannóg Ales in the spring, rumours began swirling that this iconic stout might be in line for packaging, and now that’s come to fruition. Still crafted with the same ingredients, including organic hops from Left Fields Farm, Back Hand of God balances its bold flavour with an effortlessly smooth body. Big notes of roasted barley bring forth aromas of coffee and cocoa, which carry through on the palate. It’s a beer that stays with you, sip after sip and beyond.
Find BNA Brewing in Kelowna, BC, on the Kelowna and West Kelowna Ale Trail; Vernon, BC, on the Southern Interior Ale Trail; and Penticton, BC, on the Penticton Ale Trail
• Three returning seasonal releases from Cannery Brewing
Kindling Imperial Stout (9% ABV | 60 IBU)
The 2025 batch of Kindling Imperial Stout is brewed with vanilla beans, coconut, oats and lactose. It was brewed with over three pounds of vanilla beans from Sumatra, Ecuador, and Madagascar — plus toasted coconut. Note: this beer contains lactose. Cannery is also pleased to release an updated label to reflect the new ingredients in this 2025 version. This year’s limited release Kindling is back as of Dec. 5th, just for the winter.
Kindling took home the Gold Medal in the 2022 Canadian Brewing Awards, and the Cannery team is thrilled that it is back, just in time for the festive holiday season. They can’t wait for you to try the new 2025 version.
Thornles Blackberry Porter (6% ABV | 40 IBU)
Blackberry flavour and roasted dark malts are combined to create a balanced sweetness in this robust porter. This seasonal beer is back for a limited time this winter.
Thornless won Gold at the 2022 BC Beer Awards. This beer pairs perfectly with steak, BBQ beef, and even with dessert. For a delicious treat, pair it with a rich chocolate brownie or make it into a float with vanilla ice cream.
Heist Maple Stout (5.5% ABV | 40 IBU)
Canadian Maple Syrup is sought after around the globe. This highly coveted commodity came into the spotlight when $18 million worth was stolen in the great Maple Syrup Heist. The addition of this liquid gold gives this Stout a truly Canadian twist. Heist Maple Stout is back again now for the winter.
Find Cannery Brewing in Penticton, BC, on the Penticton Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Empty Keg Brew House
Snow Bank Winter Ale (5.4% ABV | 30 IBU)
Dive into the season with Snow Bank, Empty Keg’s rich and warming Winter Ale. This deep amber brew is a perfect blend of caramel, toasted malt, and dark fruit, with a whisper of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and clove to evoke the spirit of winter. Full-bodied and smooth, it finishes with a gentle warmth, making it the ideal companion for chilly nights.
Double Trouble Chocolate Ale (8/2% ABV | 26 IBU)
Indulge your sweet side with this smooth, cocoa-kissed brew. Layers of rich chocolate and roasted malt melt together in every sip, making it taste like dessert in a glass—without being overly sweet. A cozy pint for when you’re craving comfort.
Find Empty Keg Brew House in Merritt, BC, on the Southern Interior Ale Trail
Oatmeal Stout (5.6% ABV | 25 IBU) by Giant’s Head Brewing
A classic oatmeal stout, with notes of dark chocolate & roasted coffee.
Find Giant’s Head Brewing in Summerland, BC
• Two new brews from Highway 97 Brewing
Fresh Tracks Winter Cream Ale (6% ABV | 20 IBU)
A true winter warmer with pleasant notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, allspice, ginger and vanilla. This beer was brewed with après in mind for those beautiful, relaxing winter days.
Triple Berry Cream Wheat Ale (6% ABV | 19 IBU)
This little number is creamy and refreshing, made in traditional wheat ale fashion. You will taste a berry explosion with a hint of vanilla to round out those creamy corners. The bright profile that will keep you coming back is made up of a wild mixture of Raspberries, Blueberries and Blackberries.
Find Highway 97 Brewing in Penticton, BC, on the Penticton Ale Trail
Fireside Winter Ale (6% ABV | 18 IBU) by Lakesider Brewing Co.
Embrace the cozy charm of winter with our Fireside Winter Ale, the perfect companion for chilly evenings by the fire. This rich, full-bodied brew features notes of dried fruit and brown sugar.
Find Lakesider Brewing Co in West Kelowna, BC on the Kelowna and West Kelowna Ale Trail
• Appa The Stout – A Salted Caramel Stout (5/4% ABV | 30 IBU) by Red Collar Brewing
Appa, the mischievous Corgi, joins the esteemed ranks of brewery dogs with their own namesake beer at Red Collar. And really, could there be a more fitting style for the shortest, stoutiest pup around? This salted caramel stout is brimming with notes of coffee, dark chocolate, and toffee. A rich, smooth blend of flavours, enhanced with salt, makes it an ideal brew for the winter season. Unfiltered and naturally carbonated.
Find Red Collar Brewing in Kamloops, BC, on the Southern Interior Ale Trail
• Two new brews from the Noble Pig Brewhouse
Hopkuna Matata Brown IPA (5.75% ABV |40 IBU)
Malty and Hoppy. The best of both worlds! Piney and Citrusy hop notes paired with some chocolate and roasted notes. This beer is meant to remind you of a walk in the woods with your favourite meerkat friend.
Mulled Swine Spiced Belgian Pepper Ale (5% ABV | 20 IBU)
A festive remix of the Stick House Belgian Pepper Ale. The Mulled Swine uses similar spices to those traditionally found in mulled wine. Having this tasty Christmas infusion might just make your heart grow three sizes that day.
Find the Noble Pig Brewhouse in Kamloops, BC, on the Southern Interior Ale Trail
Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Skull Lake Imperial Stout (9.6% ABV | 50 IBU) by A-FRAME Brewing
Blended on White Oak and bottle conditioned, this stout is dark, rich and intense. Delivering roasted depth and subtle sweetness, it’s layered with hints of cocoa and dark fruit. Smooth yet commanding, it gains complexity the longer it rests in the bottle.
Find A-FRAME Brewing in Squamish, BC, on the Sea to Sky Ale Trail
• Protect Our Winters Hazy Pale Ale (4.5% ABV | 28 IBU) by Backcountry Brewing
Protect Our Winters Pale Ale features Chili Thom’s iconic “Green Burst” artwork and is brewed with Mosaic, Simcoe, and Krush hops for a bright burst of tropical and citrus flavours.
“We believe our love of adventure in nature demands our participation in the fight to save and protect it. Partial proceeds from each beer sold will be contributed to Protect Our Winters Canada, a charitable organization united to advocate for policy solutions to fight climate change. Since launching this partnership in 2023, we’ve raised over $24,000 for POW, and we’re aiming even higher this year! $1 from each 4 pack and $50 from each keg will be donated, do your part and try the beer that fights climate change!” – Backcountry Brewing
Find Backcountry Brewing in Squamish, BC, on the Sea to Sky Ale Trail
• Spressy Tini Espresso Martini Stout (5.1% ABV | 35 IBU) by Beere Brewing
It’s ’tini time! This espresso martini-inspired stout was conditioned on chocolate, vanilla beans, and mountains of espresso beans roasted at Moja Coffee in North Vancouver.
Find Beere Brewing in North Vancouver, BC, on Vancouver’s North Shore Ale Trail
• Albero Winter Saison (6.8% ABV) from Beva Brewing & Blending
An amber farmhouse ale to commemorate the cooler months. A blend of farmhouse ales aged in American oak and stainless steel using their house mixed culture and refermented with maple syrup.
Find Beva Brewing & Blending in North Vancouver, BC, on Vancouver’s North Shore Ale Trail
• Two seasonal favourites from Bridge Brewing Company
The Grinch Winter Ale (6.5% ABV | 20 IBU)
This popular Winter Ale is a robust porter spiced delicately with cinnamon, vanilla and oak.
Santa’s Sac Belgian Golden Ale (10.5% ABV | 30 IBU)
A Belgian Golden Strong bursting with banana, clove and peppercorn— the perfect stocking stuffer!
Find Bridge Brewing Company in North Vancouver, BC, on Vancouver’s North Shore Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Camp Beer Co.
Pecan Pie Imperial Brown Ale (7.1%ABV)
A decadent slice of dessert in a glass. This smooth imperial brown ale layers toasted pecans, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar over a rich caramel and biscuit malt base. The aroma recalls a fresh pecan pie cooling on the counter, while each sip delivers nutty richness, gentle spice, and a soft roasty finish.
The Extra Mile Mandarin Cranberry Hazy IPA (6.5% ABV)
The big brother to the beloved Mile Marker Hazy Pale Ale, the team at Camp amped up one of their favourite brews. Not only is Extra Mile a bigger beer, but they also added mandarin and cranberry puree. Loaded with heaps of Sabro hops, bringing subtle coconut and layered complexity. Soft and pillowy like a cloud.
Find Camp Beer Co. in Langley, BC, on the Langley Ale Trail
• Seawise Giant Imperial Stout (11.2% ABV | 22 IBU) by Container Brewing
Dark and indulgent with complex notes of dark chocolate, espresso and a hint of black licorice. Full-bodied with a warm, satisfying finish that is surprisingly smooth.
Find Container Brewing in Vancouver, BC, on the Yeast Vancouver Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Field House Brewing
Orange Dark Chocolate Imperial Dessert Stout (10.5% ABV)
A nod to a classic chocolate dessert. Rich layers of sweet and flavourful chocolate blend with bright orange citrus characteristics, creating a dessert-like experience in this full-bodied imperial stout.
Fudge Brownie Vanilla Ice Cream Imperial Dessert Stout (10.5% ABV)
This imperial dessert stout was inspired by all the warm and delicious skillet brownies in the world. Rich chocolate fudge topped with smooth vanilla ice cream, drizzled with salted caramel.
Find Field House Brewing in Abbotsford, BC, and Chilliwack, BC, on the Fraser Valley Ale Trail
• Three new releases from Four Winds Brewing Co.
Astraeus – Imperial Stout (9% ABV)
Astraeus, named for the Greek god of dusk and stars, is a bold yet balanced take on a timeless classic. This Russian Imperial Stout opens with rich aromas of chocolate, roasted coffee, and caramelized sugar, drawing you into its dark, velvety depths. On the palate, it’s smooth and creamy, decadent but not overindulgent, with a gentle hop bitterness that lifts the sweetness and keeps each sip remarkably drinkable.
Pomona – Stone-Fruit Sour (6.2% ABV)
One of the team’s favourite annual beers to brew, the 2025 Pomona is bright, lightly tart, and juicy as it’s ever been! Big bold stonefruit aromas and flavours are brought on by using loads of whole Okanagan apricots and nectarines. Fermented in steel with Lactobacillus and Sacc Trois, this sour ale was aged in an oak foeder for 18 months before being conditioned on carbonically macerated apricots and nectarines. You know what they say, good things take time!
Noctarous – Dark Sour Ale (5.9% ABV)
Noctarous is Nectarous’ sultry sibling: burgundy depths swirling with lush cassis, ripe blackberries, and a hint of spice. Unexpectedly bright, elegantly balanced, delicately tart. A compelling twist on the classic sour – where darkness meets flavour in a whole new way.
Find Fours Winds Brewing Co. in Delta, BC, on the South of the Fraser Ale Trail
• Salted Caramel Ale (6.2% ABV | 16 IBU) from Fuggles Beer
Carefully balanced between indulgence and drinkability. This English-style amber ale is crafted with caramel-forward malts and enhanced with additions of caramelized sugar and hints of sea salt. Perfect for Fall, it’s gently warming and lightly sweet, while remaining exceptionally sessionable.
Find Fuggles Beer in Richmond, BC, on the South of the Fraser Ale Trail
• Three new releases from Howe Sound Brewing
Mexican Hot Chocolate Stout (5.8% ABV)
Rich cocoa, cinnamon, and a gentle kick of chilli blend into a silky stout. Like a cozy fiesta in a glass — warm, smooth, and a little bit wild.
Howe Sound Mixer 8 Pack (5 – 6% ABV)
Mix it up with your Howe Sound favourites – easy to share, easier to enjoy. Featuring the Howe Sound Lager, Hazy Daze Hazy IPA, Squamish Valley Pale Ale and Rail Ale Nut Brown, this 8-pack brings a taste of Sea to Sky adventure to every occasion.
Howe Sound Lager 12 Pack (5.5% ABV)
Crisp, clean and brewed or easy drinking – and now available in a convenient 12-pack of 355ml cans, it’s the perfect choice for sharing with friends, stocking the fridge, or bringing along for any Sea to Sky adventure. Balanced, refreshing and proudly brewed in Squamish.
Find Howe Sound Brewing in Squamish, BC, on the Sea to Sky Ale Trail
• Christmas Brown Ale (6.3% ABV | 22 IBU) from the KPU Brew Lab| Kwantlen Polytechnic University
A festive twist on a classic English brown ale, this seasonal warmer brims with holiday cheer. Brewed with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, and bright orange peel, this beer is a lively medley of holiday aromas. The warming spice blend lifts the beer’s smooth notes of toasted malt, coffee, and soft chocolate, making each sip feel like a cozy celebration of the season.
Find the KPU Brew Lab in Langley, BC, on the Langley Ale Trail
• Churro de Leche Pastry Stout (5% ABV) from La Cerveceria Astilleros
Indulge in a dessert-inspired pastry stout that tastes just like a churro in a glass! This fan-favourite brew is loaded with rich cinnamon, creamy vanilla, and dulce de leche caramel. Every sip delivers a velvety smooth mouthfeel with sweet, indulgent flavours, perfectly balanced for a decadent treat.
Find La Cerveceria Astilleros in North Vancouver, BC, on Vancouver’s North Shore Ale Trail
• Three new releases from Lillooet Brewing Company
Wolverine – Belgian Amber Ale (5.3% ABV |36 IBU)
A warm, copper-coloured Belgian amber with layers of caramel malt, stone-fruit esters, and gentle peppery spice. Lively carbonation lifts the rich flavours into a clean, dry finish, making this ale both deeply complex and effortlessly drinkable.
Spotted Bat Stout (5% ABV | 36 IBU)
A supernatural stout named after a supernatural BC bat, this dark and rich brew has notes of coffee and chocolate and is a year-round favourite for new and old stout aficionados.
Townsend’s Big-Eared Bat Stout (4.2% ABV | 36 IBU)
Brewed with fair trade espresso beans from Canada’s Level Ground Coffee Roasters and a touch of creaminess, this stout is velvety and rich with notes of coffee and chocolate.
Find Lillooet Brewing Company in Lillooet, BC, on the Sea to Sky Highway
• Farm to Barn Apple Pie Saison (5.5% ABV | 10 IBU) by Locality Brewing and Barn Owl Brewing
A farmhouse ale inspired by a classic apple pie, this saison layers crisp apple character with warming pie spices. Notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, caramel and baked apple rise from the glass, balanced by the yeast’s classic spicy esters and a dry, effervescent finish. The malt bill provides a touch of biscuit sweetness, evoking flaky crust, while the spritzy carbonation keeps it bright and refreshing. It’s apple pie in a glass—comforting, spiced, and delightfully drinkable. A Barn Owl Brewing and Locality Brewing Collaboration.
Find the Locality Brewing in Langley, BC, on the Langley Ale Trail
• Dark Room V.2 – Blended Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout by Luppolo Brewing Company
Welcome to the Dark Room: where spirit-aged stouts and bold barrel-aged strong ales are the focal point. With an impassioned dedication, this barrel program aims to produce unique blends that showcase the relationship between beer and barrel developed over time. These small-batch beers, much like film emerging from a dark room, are snapshots that blend the past and present. No two batches will be the same – here for now then gone forever…
This second release in the series is a blend of 1- and 2-year aged stouts that were brewed with a mix of barley, oats, wheat and rye to create a rich and full-bodied beer. Both vintages were aged in freshly emptied Bourbon Whiskey barrels to create robust aromas of coconut, vanilla and caramelized sugar with a complex undertone of Whiskey and toasted oak. Indulge in decadent flavours of dark chocolate, caramel and oak-aged Bourbon. Enjoy now or cellar for later.
Find Luppolo Brewing Company in Vancouver, BC, on the Yeast Vancouver Ale Trail
• Two new Imperial Stouts (8.9% ABV) from Main St. Brewing
Not one but two new Imperial Stouts in 250-mL cans now available just in time for Dark Beer Season at Main St. Brewing in Vancouver’s Brewery Creek: the Stroopwafel Imperial Stout and a Chocolate-Dipped Stroopwafel Imperial Stout!
Expect a rich, sweet and malty backbone with biscuity stroopwafel and caramel notes thanks to a specialty malt base, extended boil and addition of vanilla and cinnamon to the brew, and a chocolate-dipped delight with delicious cocoa notes to follow that up.
Find Main St. Brewing in Vancouver, BC, on the Brewery Creek Vancouver Ale Trail
• Winter Ale Spiced Beer (5.8% ABV) by Mariner Brewing
Mariner’s Winter Ale is a robust ale with a deep chestnut colour and a hint of vanilla and spice. A perfect winter warmer to complement crisp fall air, damp and dark evenings and the occasional bright and sunny snow day! Not only was this Mariner’s first award-winning beer ever, it also won Gold at the 2025 Canadian Beer Awards.
Find Mariner Brewing in Coquitlam, BC, on the North of the Fraser Ale Trail
• Three new releases from Off the Rail Brewing Co
Twilight Bliss Dark Cream Ale (5% ABV)
A smooth and comforting Dark Cream Ale that bridges light and dark with effortless balance. Pouring a deep amber-brown with a soft, creamy head, it carries gentle notes of roasted malt, caramel, and a touch of chocolate, rounded out by a velvety mouthfeel. Subtle sweetness meets a crisp, clean finish, making it both approachable and intriguing. Twilight Bliss invites you to linger, unwind, and savour the moment between the day’s energy and the night’s calm.
Tiki Talk IPA (6% ABV)
A juicy, hop-forward hazy that’s bursting with notes of ripe pineapple and luscious mango. This IPA balances bright, fruity sweetness with a crisp, refreshing bitterness. Crack one open and drift away—this is your island escape in a can.
Hennes Kölsch (4.8% ABV)
Cologne is steeped in tradition from the city’s proud coat of arms to chants of the diehard FC Köln soccer fans and their legendary four-legged mascot, Hennes. He’s such an icon, Off The Rail named their Kölsch after him. Light, crisp and golden, this brew carries Cologne’s tradition. Named after a goat, brewed for the herd, this beer isn’t just good – it’s the G.O.A.T.
Find Off the Rail Brewing Co in Vancouver, BC, on the Yeast Vancouver Ale Trail
• Three new releases from Parallel 49 Brewing
Craft Draft Stout (4.6% ABV | 28 IBU)
An Irish dry stout with rich coffee and chocolate notes. Beautiful cascade, fine thick head, and smooth velvety mouthfeel from nitrogenation. Light fruity undertone from English yeast. Light, dry, and easy drinking. Available exclusively at BC Liquor Stores.
Toques of Hazzard Double White IPA (9.2% ABV | 76 IBU)
Back for winter! An imperial IPA brewed with a large portion of wheat in the grain bill. A big hop punch with a hint of white grape, kiwi and lime from Nelson Sauvin and Citra. A little white haze adds mouthfeel. Light malt sweetness with wheat flavour. Surprisingly drinkable for its high ABV.
Toque Berries (8.6% ABV | 46 IBU)
P49 has twisted up their beloved Toques of Hazzard Double White IPA with blackberry and raspberry. The punchy hop aroma of white grape, kiwi, and lime character from Nelson Sauvin and Citra intertwines beautifully with blackberry and raspberry. A slight hint of tartness sharpens the overall impression. Generous amounts of wheat contribute to a pleasant haze, enhanced mouthfeel, and a distinctive wheaty undertone. This version is designed with slightly lower alcohol and lower bitterness than the original Toques of Hazzard to keep it approachable. Find it in this year’s Naughty & Nice pack.
Find Parallel 49 Brewing in Vancouver, BC, on the Yeast Vancouver Ale Trail
• Auld Nick Winter Ale (7% ABV | 28 IBU) from R&B Brewing
First brewed in the winter of 1998, Auld Nick is a carefully handcrafted strong dark ale. This mellow and warming beer is the perfect antidote to the cold nights of winter.
Find R&B Brewing in Vancouver, BC, on the Brewery Creek Vancouver Ale Trail
• Hygge Pro Andreas Coppenhagen Spiced Lager (5.6% ABV | 22 IBU) from Sidekick Brewing
Embrace the warmth of comfort with this golden-dark Copenhagen Spiced Lager. Smooth caramel sweetness blends with notes of licorice, cinnamon, and vanilla, balanced by subtle bitterness. The result is a dry, satisfying brew that invites you to slow down and savour life’s simple pleasures.
Find Sidekick Brewing in Chilliwack, BC, on the Fraser Valley Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Smugglers Trail Caskworks
Illicit Cargo Imperial Stout (10% ABV | 42 IBU)
The fourth annual iteration of Illicit Cargo is a Double Chocolate Hedgehog Caramel Imperial Stout brewed with a copious amount of Dutch cocoa, Madagascar bourbon vanilla bean, roasted hazelnuts, caramel malt and aged on American oak. An extended five-hour boil reduces this impressive stout down to something truly extraordinary. Learn more
Black Gold Coffee Stout (5.6% ABV | 29 IBU)
Even the most charismatic smugglers have a dark side! Black Gold balances bold, smooth and roasty flavours with slight touches of spruce and the added kick of cold-brewed
and whole bean coffee.
Find Smugglers Trail Caskworks in Langley, BC on the Langley Ale Trail
• Throw Blanket West Coast IPA (7.2% ABV) from Steel & Oak Brewing
A little bit old school, a little bit new school, S&O took a classic West Coast IPA and added some new hop varieties. Strata is the star here, delivering resin and passionfruit on the nose and a mouthful of fresh pine. Idaho 7 and Amarillo support the throw blanket like a nice accessory throw pillow, with notes of citrus and stone fruit. Classic American Ale yeast keeps things crispy and clean.
Find Steel & Oak Brewing in New Westminster, BC, on the North of the Fraser Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Taylight Brewing
Eggnogg White Stout (5.6% ABV)
This dreamy white stout brings all the silky-smooth sweetness you love from a classic stout without the roasted chocolate or coffee notes. Instead, it’s loaded with the festive spice of real eggnog.
Mint Conditions Stout (5% ABV)
This smooth, velvety pour brings together cool mint and rich cocoa, making it the perfect companion for cozy nights, festive gatherings, and fireside sips.
Find Taylight Brewing in Port Coquitlam, BC, on the North of the Fraser Ale Trail
• Four new releases from The Patch Brewery
The Old Dewdney Dark Lager (4.8% ABV | 34 IBU)
The Old Dewdney is a barrel-aged, Czech Dark Lager. Clean but complex, nutty, toasty and smooth, with a dark chocolate dry finish
Hot Rocks: Nitro Orange Creamsicle Sour (4% ABV | 30 IBU)
Bright, citrusy kettle sour with orange juice forward hops, a hint of vanilla, and a silky nitro finish.
The Laity Lager (4.9% ABV) – Seasonal can design
The Patch Core Beer Laity Lager, all dressed up for Christmas. A Clean and crisp classic Lager.
Salted Brownie S’more Nitro Double Porter (7.4% ABV | 35 IBU)
Rich chocolate porter brewed with chocolate chips and cocoa nibs, layered with vanilla and topped with a marshmallow-like nitro foam.
Find The Patch Brewery in Maple Ridge, BC, on the Maple Ridge Ale Trail
• Four new releases from Tinhouse Brewing Co.
Roundhouse Imperial Porter (9.5% ABV | 50 IBU)
A big, bold Porter, perfect for those cool winter evenings. Hints of coffee, chocolate, and roasted marshmallows.
2023 Single Malt Barrel Aged Porter (7.5% ABV | 45 IBU)
The Swingbridge Porter aged for two years in Single Malt Whisky barrels. Available on tap in the tasting room and select hospitality accounts only. Growler Fills will be available.
2021 Barrel Aged Cherry Sour (7% ABV | 10 IBU)
The Hyde Kriek Cherry Sour aged four years in mixed-culture barrels from Dageraad Brewing, for a deliciously tart Belgian Lambic-like finish. Available in the tasting room and select hospitality accounts only. Growler fills we be available.
2023 Single Malt Barrel Aged Peach Sour (9% ABV | 10 IBU)
The Mortal Peach Sour aged for two years in Single Malt Whisky Barrels for a stone fruit whisky sour like beer, with a lot of dry oak on the finish. Available on tap in the tasting room and select hospitality accounts only. Growler fills are available.
Find Tinhouse Brewing Co in Port Coquitlam, BC, on the North of the Fraser Ale Trail
• Beartooth Belgian Dubble (7.5% ABV | 28 IBU) from Townsite Brewing
Pouring out a deep brown with ruby highlights, Beartooth’s complex caramel flavours with hints of raisin and dark fruit (think cherries and plum) is the perfect dark sipper to warm you up from the inside out on a cold winter’s night.
Find Townsite Brewing in Powell River, BC, on the Sunshine Coast Ale Trail
• Easy Stout – Non Alcoholic Beer (.5% ABV) from Wildeye Brewing
Made in collaboration with Thomas Haas Chocolate, the Easy Stout pours deep espresso brown with a soft tan head and offers rich aromas of cocoa, roasted malt and a hint of vanilla. The flavour is silky and balanced, with layered dark chocolate, gentle coffee notes and a touch of toasted hazelnut that leads into a clean, lightly roasty finish. Smooth and velvety in body, it delivers a decadent yet refreshing stout experience that showcases the signature chocolate character of Thomas Haas while keeping the drinkability of the EASY lineup.
Find Wildeye Brewing in North Vancouver, BC, on the Vancouver’s North Shore Ale Trail
Vancouver Island
• Three new brews from Ace Brewing Co.
Pilot Project – Valley Vibes Session IPA (4.2% ABV | 40)
The team at Ace are excited to unveil the winner of Pilot Project #6: Valley Vibes Session IPA by Max McLean. A low ABV, full-flavour brew showcasing Citra and Simcoe hops, bursting with bright citrus and juicy stone fruit notes. Once a small-batch stand-out, it’s now ready for the big stage.
Stout (6.6% ABV | 43 IBU)
A rich, smooth and full-bodied stout with a complex malt recipe. A touch of rye gives this beer a spicy background with rich chocolate and coffee notes taking centre stage. A touch of Beechwood smoked malt leads to a subtle smokiness that is present but not overpowering. A generous percentage of oats gives the beer a silky smooth mouthfeel and body. As cold weather approaches, this stout will help ease the burdens of winter.
Rocket Fuel West Coast Double IPA (9% ABV | 90 IBU)
Every holiday season, when the planets align just right, the team at Ace aims for the stars and boosts up their Jet Fuel IPA with an astronomical amount of hops! Buckle in ’cause the countdown is on and this stellar double IPA is ready to launch you into orbit!
Find Ace Brewing Co. in Courtenay, BC, on the Northern Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Bayview Brewing Company
Christmas Sour (4.7% ABV | 5 IBU)
The Christmas Sour is a traditional kettle sour with Lactobacillus Plantarum. It’s Christmas in a pint glass! Bursting with vibrant Yellow Point cranberries and supported by a beautiful meld of orange, ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Cherry Poppins Cherry French Toast Dessert Sour (4.5-5% ABV | 5 IBU)
Keep an eye out for this returning favourite coming soon! More than a few spoonfuls of dark sweet cherries, cinnamon, vanilla, lactose and maple syrup help this sour beer go down. Supercalifragalisticexpiala-delicious!
Find Bayview Brewing Company in Ladysmith, BC, on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Three new releases from Category 12 Brewing
Breakthru Dry Irish Stout (4.9% ABV)
A smooth, approachable stout built on roasted malt character with a touch of vanilla for balance. Light in body yet rich in flavour, it delivers a clean, easy finish that makes this stout refreshing and satisfying. Check out the C12 website for each batch’s third-party certified gluten results!
Black Forest Pastry Stout (11.5% ABV)
Indulge in the layered decadence of this rich, dark stout. Brewed with nine malts and an abundance of cocoa, sour cherry, and vanilla, it evokes the timeless dessert it’s named for – dark chocolate, tart fruit, and creamy sweetness in perfect harmony
Prism Feoder-aged Wild New Zealand Pilsner (5.9% ABV | 29 IBU)
Prism is a wild take on New Zealand Pilsner: the same NZ hop backbone, re-fermented with Brettanomyces in the oak foeder to reveal new facets. Expect citrus-lime and sauvignon-blanc notes with a hint of tropical lift, clean mineral bitterness, and a bone-dry, persistent finish. The foeder adds depth without weight; Brett provides a subtle, elegant complexity rather than overt funk. It’s Seismic Shift seen through another angle.
Find Category 12 Brewing in Victoria, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Gratitude Winter Ale (9% ABV) from Hoyne Brewing
Gratitude is Hoyne’s most heartfelt beer, inspired by a 15th-century winter-warmer style and brewed with those closest to them in mind. Luscious, full-bodied, and gently warming, it offers rich malt character with notes of caramel, toasted grain, and subtle spice, thanks to Thomas Fawcett and Golden Promise malts and BC-grown Willamette hops. Best enjoyed slowly from a snifter by the fire, this seasonal ale is crafted in honour of the people who bring colour and meaning to our community.
Find Hoyne Brewing in Victoria, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Noël Gose (5% ABV) from Île Sauvage Brewing Co
A salty sour beer with cherries, baking spices and tonka beans.
Find Île Sauvage Brewing Co in Victoria, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Confluence Bière De Coupage (6.5% ABV) from Land & Sea Brewing
Confluence is a blend of two rustic Saisons, one aged for the Oak Foeders over six months, and the other, a bright and freshly brewed Farmhouse Ale. This harmonious, blended Saison is brewed in celebration of Land & Sea Brewing’s seventh anniversary.
Find Land & Sea Brewing in Comox, BC, on the Northern Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Longwood Brewery
Chocolate & Vanilla Swirl Stout (6.5% ABV | 8 IBU)
Chocolate & Vanilla Swirl Stout is a decadent winter delicacy with gobs of sweet chocolate, dollops on dollops of vanilla, and so much creamy lactose. South American cacao nibs and pure vanilla extract are added at two stages of this brew to enhance the rich flavours from the first sip to the long, rich finish. This dessert beer is chocolate and vanilla all night long.
Big Red Pacific Red Ale (5.8% ABV | 28 IBU)
Big Red is a bold Pacific Red Ale brewed with a balance of citrus-forward West Coast hops and a smooth backbone of Pilsner, Biscuit and Red malts. A full pint in every super tall can — big flavour, big character, Big Red. An Imperial pint in every super tall can.
Find Longwood brews at the Brewery on Boxwood Road, and at the Longwood Brew Pub, both in Nanaimo, BC, on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Fathoms Below Imperial Stout (8% ABV) from Mount Arrowsmith Brewing and Fern + Cedar Brewing
A collaboration between sister breweries – the teams at Mount Arrowsmith Brewing and Fern + Cedar Brewing came together to create this rich and decadent Stout for the holiday season.
Find Mount Arrowsmith Brewing in Parksville, BC, and Fern + Cedar Brewing in Qualicum Beach, both on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Reinbeer Mixed Pack from Phillips Brewing & Malting
Featuring eight mystery brews inspired by Santa’s B-Team of mischievous reindeer. Each beer is crafted to showcase the creativity of Phillips’ expert brewing team, letting the personalities of these delightful troublemakers shine through. Expect a variety of unique, delicious beers that are perfect for celebrating the holiday season!
- Dozer – Brown Ale – ABV% 3.5
- Coco – Hot Chocolate Dark Lager – ABV% 4
- Glitzen – Aussie Sparkling Ale – ABV% 5.5
- Ryder – Rye Witbier – ABV% 5.7
- Crumby – Extra Special Bitter – ABV% 6
- Dipstick – Dip-Hopped IPA – ABV% 6.5
- Jitterz – Hazy Coffee IPA – ABV% 7
- Danky – Single Hop No Boil IPA – ABV% 7.5
Find Phillips Brewing & Malting in Victoria, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Red Arrow Brewing
Toasted Coconut Porter (5.1% ABV)
The taproom smells incredible when the team at Red Arrow toasts all the coconut needed for this beer in their kitchen! Enjoy comforting dark malt notes of coffee and chocolate with a delightful toasted coconut finish. Oats and rye malt provide a soft mouthfeel for a rounded balance.
Espresso Dark Lager (5.3% ABV)
Coffee Beer! This special collaboration beer features big flavour made smooth by lagering. Rich, velvety, and dark malt-forward with heavy espresso aromatics thanks to the addition of 110lbs of Compass Espresso from Cowichan Valley’s own Peak’s Coffee.
Find Red Arrow Brewing in Duncan, BC, on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Contrary Evidence Nitro Cold Brew Porter (4.45% ABV | 24 IBU) from Serious Brewing Company
A smooth chocolate porter with the addition of Serious Coffee’s Three Amigos roast cold brew. Smooth, creamy, full-bodied bodied and easy drinking.
Find Serious Brewing Company in Chemainus, BC, on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail
• Blink Milk Chocolate Coconut Porter (6% ABV) from Small Gods Brewing
The use of lactose sugar, along with fair-trade cocoa nibs, gives this porter a rich, creamy milk chocolate character that is then amplified by a bounty of shaved coconut.
Find Small Gods Brewing in Sidney, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Two new brews from Spinnakers Brewpub
Trans Atlantic Collaboration IPA (5.2% ABV | 40 IBU)
This old-world style IPA, features Fuller’s yeast, local malts, and a mix of old-world and Northwest hops. Its flavour profile includes notes of pine, grapefruit, and light malt. Read more about the history behind the beer.
Imperial Chocolate Stout (8.4% ABV | 5 IBU)
A robust American Stout that leads with subtle coffee flavours and opens to huge chocolate notes that are balanced out by a bite of sweetness.
Find Spinnakers Brewpub in Victoria, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Vanishing Act Sour (5.7% ABV | 10 IBU) from Twin City Brewing
Like taking a tropical vacation or the holidays, but without any of the family guilt. Vanishing Act is a pineapple coconut sour that starts as a golden base, gets acidified using a house culture of lactobacillus until sour, then gets hopped with pineapple-forward hops, fermented with Voss kveik, and finally conditioned on loads of pineapple and finished with a touch of coconut. A pina colada-reminiscent fan favourite that also happened to be a gold medal winner at the 2025 BC Beer Awards.
Find Twin City Brewing in Port Alberni, BC, on the Pacific Rim Ale Trail
• Juleøl Winter Lager (5.6% ABV | 25 IBU) from Whistle Buoy Brewing Company
Pronounced Yule-ol. A winter lager inspired by the traditional holiday beers of Denmark and Norway. Malt forward and slightly sweet. Amber in colour with a hint of spice from star anise, cinnamon, and orange peel. Warming and seasonal, with balanced crushability.
Find Whistle Buoy Brewing Company in Victoria, BC, on the Greater Victoria Ale Trail
• Smoked Dobbelbock (8% ABV) from Wolf Brewing Company
Beech-smoked malt on the nose gives way to a rich malty lager with toasted bread, raisin and prune, followed by caramel and a hint of molasses. A medium to full-bodied beer with a clean, lager-style finish.
Find Wolf Brewing in Nanaimo, BC, on the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail
