Hops Among Friends is designed to showcase the people who make up the craft beer scene on the BC Ale Trail. In this latest installment, Kim Lawton interviews Gary Brucker from Barn Owl Brewing. My most recent Hops Among Friends interview was with Melanie MacInnes from Locality Brewing. At the end of our discussion, Melanie … Continued
Discover how brewer and scientist Nathan Vadeboncoeur, founder of Project Hop and Brasserie du Bon Temps, is reviving historical beer styles by researching and recreating IPAs from different eras. His journey from hop quality assurance to historical brewing has equipped Vadeboncoeur with the knowledge to meticulously recreate these beers using period-appropriate ingredients, water chemistry, and … Continued
Foamy February isn’t actually a thing (at least not yet!), but intentionally foamy beer pours have become a specialty at a dozen or more craft breweries in British Columbia — and there’s even a new festival celebrating them that’s happening right now. Read on to learn more about side pours and slow pours before you … Continued
Recently, Nick from the Thirsty Explorers Club went on a weekend ale-venture to the Shuswap region of BC, where he explored Salmon Arm and its three unique breweries. Get his take on Salmon Arm’s brew culture, the tasty eats, and community and sustainability values in practice here every day. What Even Is a Salmon Arm? … Continued
During the early days of craft beer in BC casks were all the rage. Weekly cask nights kept the thirsty beer nerds busy between the cask festivals that had developed a very keen following. Brewers would create 20-40 litres of a one-off beer and serve it directly from a steel cask. CAMRA, Central City, Tri-cities, … Continued
Central Vancouver Island Offers a Bounty of Exceptional Experiences! From Cowichan through Nanaimo and Parksville Qualicum Beach to the Comox Valley, Central Vancouver Island offers a variety of exceptional experiences, including spectacular beaches, hiking and mountain biking trails, and coastal paddling. From February 1 through March 9, 2025, explore the region and the diverse mix … Continued
In an inspiring tale of resilience and renewal, Bomber Brewing, founded by Don Farion in 2014, has come full circle as Farion recently repurchased the brewery from the Donnelly Group in October 2024, following periods of corporate ownership and market challenges. After surviving his own battle with throat cancer, Farion is steering Bomber back to … Continued
As winter settles in and the holiday season approaches, craft breweries across British Columbia are unwrapping creative and festive beer offerings. These seasonal brews are more than just beverages—they’re an invitation to gather with friends and loved ones, capturing the warmth, comfort, and jubilant spirit of the season. Winter beers have a special magic about them. … Continued
Hops Among Friends is designed to showcase the people who make up the craft beer scene on the BC Ale Trail. In this latest installment, Kim Lawton interviews Melanie MacInnes from Locality Brewing. My most recent Hops Among Friends interview was with Alex Jopson from Another Beer Co. At the end of our discussion, Alex … Continued
Escape the crowds and discover the quiet magic of Port Alberni during the winter months. Winter in the Alberni Valley offers a serene escape, with misty mornings, uncrowded attractions, and an authentic glimpse into the region’s soul. Whether it’s peaceful fishing expeditions, cozy brewery tastings, or awe-inspiring coastal vistas, this season unveils a quieter, more … Continued
