Beer has long been a favourite beverage for many Edmontonians, a love affair that dates back to the city’s very beginnings. The story of this beloved hoppy drink in Edmonton is quite fascinating, and we’ll dive into it deeper on edmonton1.one.
The Dawn of Canadian Brewing
Brewing in Canada first took root thanks to early settlers and traders. In the nascent days of Canadian brewing, English and Scottish immigrants brought their traditions with them, opening shops in Montreal and Toronto. It’s worth noting that beer became a part of Canadian culture as early as the 1600s, with the arrival of the first European settlers. The first recorded brewer was Jesuit Brother Ambroise, who started brewing at home in 1646. And in 1668, Jean Talon founded Canada’s first commercial brewery in Quebec City. In 1786, John Molson opened a small brewery in Montreal, laying the groundwork for what would become Canada’s modern brewing industry. By the late 1800s, the brewing scene truly began to take shape, influenced by both immigration and international relations. Between 1880 and 1930, over two million immigrants arrived in Canada, many of whom brought their brewing traditions with them.
Beer Arrives in Edmonton
Not many people know that beer production in Edmonton began in the late 19th century. The first brewery was established in 1913 and quickly grew to become one of the largest in the region. The popularity of beer led to a surge in new breweries popping up across the city, all catering to the local population. This era was defined by unique ingredients and traditional brewing methods, making each batch truly distinctive and tailored to the community’s tastes. However, in 1916, prohibition was introduced in Alberta, forcing many breweries to close their doors. Some managed to stay afloat during this period by shifting to non-alcoholic beverages. When prohibition ended in 1924, breweries were able to resume operations, but the industry had suffered significant setbacks. Despite the challenges, beer production experienced a powerful resurgence. Major breweries like Molson Brewery and Calgary Brewing and Malting Company expanded their operations. Beer became an integral part of social life, with local bars and pubs becoming popular gathering spots. The industry flourished, brewing technologies improved, and production scaled up. Beer was no longer just a local commodity; it began to spread to other regions, reaching a broader audience.
The Rise of Craft Beer
In the mid-20th century, large breweries dominated Edmonton’s beer scene. A few major players controlled the local market, primarily producing mainstream lagers. This style of beer was widely consumed, with various advertising campaigns solidifying its popularity. Over time, national brands overshadowed local brewing traditions, leading to a more homogeneous beer culture focused on mass production. By the 1990s, however, consumer preferences began to shift towards craft beer as people sought alternatives to traditional lagers. This period saw the emergence of small, independent breweries in the city, all focused on quality and variety. Alley Kat Brewing Company, founded in 1995, was one of Edmonton’s pioneering craft breweries. They introduced locals to a diverse range of beers, including ales and seasonal brews. This movement was fueled by a desire to return to more traditional brewing methods, emphasizing creativity and uniqueness. The 2000s saw significant growth in Edmonton’s craft beer scene. New breweries continued to open, each bringing unique flavours and styles to the market. For instance, Yellowhead Brewery is known for its classic brews and commitment to quality. Blind Enthusiasm has always focused on innovation and using local ingredients, while Sea Change Brewing Co. is popular for its approachable and flavourful beers.
Beer’s Place in City Culture
In 2013, significant regulatory changes in Alberta reshaped the beer industry. The provincial Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) eased restrictions on brewery operations, making it easier for new breweries to enter the market. These changes included lower minimum production requirements and a simplified licensing process. This sparked a wave of new brewery openings, contributing to the rapid growth of Edmonton’s craft beer industry. A clear testament to Edmontonians’ love for beer is the annual beer festivals held in the city. One of them, the Edmonton BeerFest, has become a major event on the city’s social calendar. It consistently showcases hundreds of the best beers from local, national, and international breweries. This event also provides a platform for brewers to showcase their products and for attendees to explore new tastes. Workshops, lectures, live music, and delicious food pairings are also key highlights of the festival, making it even more engaging. All these developments have made beer an indispensable part of Edmonton’s cultural identity. Local breweries serve as community hubs, regularly hosting various events and charity initiatives. The emphasis on local ingredients and sustainability has also resonated with consumers, reflecting broader trends in food and beverage preferences. The popularity of craft beer has helped revitalize neighbourhoods and foster a sense of community, as breweries often collaborate with local businesses and organizations.
Leading Contemporary Edmonton Breweries
Alley Kat Brewing Company was founded in 1995 by Neil Herbst and his wife Lavonne. It stands as the 4th oldest brewery in Alberta. Herbst started as a homebrewer during college and soon turned his hobby into one of the province’s strongest breweries. Alley Kat Brewing Company focuses on creating high-quality, freshly brewed beer from local ingredients. At Arcadia Brewing Co., people come together united by a passion for beer, laughter, and kindness. Located in Manchester Square, this Edmonton brewery promises delicious local craft beer that will have even those who aren’t usually beer drinkers ordering another pint. Stepping inside, everyone feels an atmosphere reminiscent of a street party or a backyard BBQ with friends. In the summer, they host parties with the fountain in the middle of the square. Another Edmonton brewery, Bent Stick, proudly brews premium beer at 400 litres a day and supplies high-quality unfiltered ale to the north side of the city. Scott Kendall, Patrick Gaudet, and Ben Rix have focused on creating easy-drinking beers. Their entirely manual brewing process is akin to magic, a blend of science, art, and craftsmanship. Blind Enthusiasm is a local beer pub. Owner Greg Zeschuk prides himself on offering guests a variety of beers, from dry to traditional styles. Campio Brewing Co. was founded in 2018. Their beer selection ranges from aromatic to sour varieties, truly a treat for the taste buds. From all of the above, it’s clear that Edmonton is a Canadian beer hub, with new breweries opening annually and unique varieties constantly emerging.