Ontario Craft Brewers Week is coming to a close, but it’s always a good time to check out Toronto craft breweries. The industry has exploded in the last couple of years, and now some of the country’s most interesting and innovative breweries are right here in the GTA. We’ve chosen a handful of the best, and we hope if you haven’t tried them you will after reading this! Haven’t been converted to craft beer fandom yet? Watch this short clip from Indie Ale House Brewing and you’ll be a convert in no time.
Steam Whistle – You must have heard of this one, but have you visited their space? Toronto’s most famous craft brewery was founded in 2000, the Steam Whistle Brewery is steps away from the Roger’s Centre and CN Tower, so make a stop next time you’re in the area. They also have offers customers a delivery service that hooks you up with brewery fresh beer whenever you want it!
Amsterdam – Toronto’s oldest craft brewery, Amsterdam started as a Brewpub in 1986. Unlike most craft brewers who generally start with an ale, Amsterdam entered the race with a blonde lager. From there they now have a wide selection of just about every variety there is. Plus, their packaging is super-bright and perfect for sunny days on the patio.
Bellwoods – Still a baby as far as Toronto breweries go, Bellwoods Brewery opened it’s brew pub and retail store in 2012, and went on to win best local microbrewery 2013 + 2014. They brew tons of variety, so you never know what you’ll get on any given day – and that’s a good thing! Go be a guinea pig at their beautiful Ossington Avenue space, and you might find your new favourite summer staple.
Junction Craft – Junction’s signature style, Conductor’s Craft Ale, uses a brewing technique called ‘hopback’, imparting an interesting flavour which you don’t find everywhere.
Indie Ale House – Of the newer breweries in the city, Indie Ale House’s passion shines through in every sip. Indie Ale House knows that people want a beer that tastes great, with such a large selection of flagships, rare brews, and “one hit wonders,” you’d have a hard time not finding something to tell your friends about.
Mill Street – Another Toronto success story with “well over 100 awards, including 3-time Canadian Brewery of the Year,” Mill Street started in 2002 with Ontario’s very first organic lager. Now, they offer five core varieties with a selection of seasonals to complete the lineup, and a huge selection of specialties that can only be found at their four brew pubs.
What Toronto craft brews are on your list? Have you stopped by any of these gems? Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter for the best places to eat and drink all over the city.
