Prince Rupert’s Wheelhouse Brewing Co. is one of the pioneers of the Northern B.C. craft beer scene, and they’ll be celebrating their fifth anniversary in December, which is a pretty big deal.
Wheelhouse’s beers are also making an appearance at liquor stores down south for the first time ever, which is also a pretty big deal. I found bombers of Gillnetter Golden Ale, Foggy Harbour IPA and Blacksmith Brown Ale the other day at my local bottle shop, so naturally, I snatched them all up.
Fittingly, given it’s located in the rainiest place in Canada, Wheelhouse knows how to make beers that pair well with miserable weather. Blacksmith, in particular, is perfect for the constant drizzle outside, with its comforting malt character and roasty notes.
As opposed to the traditionally fruity and caramel-forward brown ales of England, Blacksmith almost borders on an American porter in style, with its dark colour, coffee notes and hop bitterness. Those hops help keep the sweetness of the malt in check and ensure a nice, dry finish. It’s smooth and comforting, just the thing for when the rains settle in.
Blacksmith Brown Ale by Wheelhouse Brewing Co. (6.3% ABV)
Appearance: Deep dark brown with a sturdy tan head.
Aroma: Caramel, roasted malt, coffee.
Flavour: Caramel, coffee, molasses, roasted malt, toast, chocolate, mild smokiness, moderate hop bitterness.
Body: Medium bodied with a dry finish.
Pairs with: Smoked meat, beef stew, gum boots and a plaid Mac jacket.
- The Fall 2018 issue of The Growler is out now! You can find B.C.’s favourite craft beer guide at your local brewery, select private liquor stores, and on newsstands across the province.
