Whelp, The Growler’s Fall 2016 issue is out this week, at a brewery (and London Drugs, and Chapters, and a BC Ferry, and assorted other retail outlets) near you.
And as usual, we’ve included five Growler Approved beers that staff and contributors think all y’all really should try at least once.
We chose these beers not because they’re brand new – they’re not at all – nor are they technically “the best” by any official beer judging metric. No, we chose them because we think they’re great and haven’t yet “Approved” them in a past issue, and because we think they represent the spectrum of beers currently being brewed in this province.
Give ‘em a try! Let us know what you think!
Bomber Brewing’s Russian Imperial Stout
This smooth, 14-malt monster was an instant hit upon its release earlier this year. And wouldn’t you know it! Canadian Brewing Award judges agreed, awarding it a bronze in the Imperial Stout category. This seasonal, dangerously drinkable brew is packaged in 473 ml cans and will be available again at the end of September.
Storm Brewing’s Imperial Flanders
This delicious, 11 per cent ABV Belgian beast is aged at least a year in oak barrels. It’s potent and very sour, featuring undertones of cherries and oak, and available only at the brewery through growler fills, or occasionally on tap at the assorted places where Storm delivers kegs.
Fuggles & Warlock Craftworks’ Kiwami Plum Sour
Some people claim to hate sours…but they probably just haven’t tried Kiwami. Or maybe they have and actually just hate sours. But I somehow doubt that, because this is an approachable and refreshing sour from Richmond’s purveyors of weird beer. The fresh organic plums give this bright, effervescent brew a bit of body, balancing out the tartness.
Category 12 Brewing’s Elemental Series Wild India Pale Ale
At this point, I think we can all agree that Victoria’s C12 can do no wrong. Even if you don’t actually like the flavour of the beer (which, I mean, get it together man), there’s no question that the beer is brilliantly executed, technically speaking. The latest addition to the Elemental Series is no exception – an assertively fruity and spicy IPA that finishes dry and little tart, thanks to Saccharomyces trios, the yeast formerly known as Brett. It might be C12’s best. Available in bombers while supplies last.
Persephone Brewing’s Wee Heavy
Is this the finest Wee Heavy currently brewed in B.C.? It’s entirely possible. It boasts earthy, bready and dark-fruit flavours, which blend beautifully with the mighty malt-forward ale. Available in bombers this October while supplies last.
– with files from Joe Wiebe, Jan Zeschky. Photo by Jonny Healy.
