Canada’s love affair with beer is undeniable. From cozy pubs to bustling breweries, the nation has a rich history of brewing and enjoying this beloved beverage. While big-name brands have long dominated the market, there’s been a seismic shift in recent years. The rise of craft beer in Canada is not just a trend; it’s a revolution. In this post, we’ll explore the fascinating journey of craft beer’s ascent in the Great White North, from humble beginnings to the thriving industry it is today.
Our History – In Short
The first brewery in Canada, La Brasseries du Roy, can be traced back to Quebec City (technically part of New France) in 1668. From this point forward, several commercial breweries enjoyed quite a bit of success. I won’t name them as the list is quite extensive. Just know that there were quite a few (117 independent breweries by 1914). And they did well. Very well. At least, they were doing well until the introduction of the Temperance Act of Canada and prohibition, which resulted in nearly 75% of those breweries closing their doors between 1878 and 1928. Why is this important, you may ask? After prohibition was repealed, there was a consolidation period where anything left was bought up by three surviving companies: Canadian Breweries (better known as Carling O’Keefe), Molson, and Labatt. By the early 1980s, these three companies owned 96% of the market. Do you like having a choice? Not anymore, you don’t!
The Roots of the Revolution
Craft beer’s ascent in Canada dates back to the late 20th century. Disappointed by the selection in the market at the time, a few passionate individuals took matters into their own hands and started experimenting with flavours, styles, and brewing techniques. Inspired by the craft beer movements in the United States and Europe, these pioneers set the stage for what would soon become a thriving industry. British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta would end up being industry leaders in what beer could be, seeing the introduction of Granville Island Brewing (Vancouver, 1984), Brick Brewery (Waterloo, 1984) and Big Rock Brewery (Calgary, 1985). It’s also worth mentioning that the latter had excellent timing entering into the scene when Labatt and Molson breweries went on strike in 1986, leaving Big Rock as the only beer available that summer. To nobody’s surprise, production demands increased significantly.
The Turning Point
The turning point for craft beer in Canada came in the early 2000s when local breweries began popping up nationwide. Unlike the standardized brewing processes of larger beer conglomerates, craft brewers emphasize hands-on techniques and premium ingredients. Often, these ingredients are sourced locally, fostering relationships with nearby farmers and suppliers. Moreover, craft breweries frequently collaborate with neighbouring businesses, strengthening the local economy and creating vibrant hubs for social interaction. As a result, Canadians were introduced to a diverse range of flavours, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, that challenged their taste buds, expanded their beer horizons, and fostered a strengthened sense of community – something that was largely lacking in most macro breweries.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the rise of craft beer in Canada has been nothing short of impressive, it hasn’t been without its challenges. Small-scale production, limited distribution, and competition from larger breweries have posed obstacles for many craft brewers. One example is The Beer Store, Ontario’s largest beer retail chain. Owned by three of the largest breweries (Molson, Labatt, and Sleeman), The Beer Store has had a reputation of control, pricing many of the smaller breweries out of the market. Until recently, if you wanted to sell beer in Ontario, you would have had to go through them. However, these challenges have also fueled innovation and creativity, leading to the development of new business models, such as taprooms and direct-to-consumer sales.
Craft Beer Tourism
As the craft beer scene flourished, it began to draw the attention of beer enthusiasts worldwide. Craft beer tourism has become a significant driving force for the industry, with beer enthusiasts embarking on pilgrimages to explore the rich tapestry of breweries that have sprung up across Canada. From British Columbia’s West Coast charm to Quebec’s French-inspired brewing traditions, each region offers a unique taste of the craft beer movement.
A Story Still Being Written
The rise of craft beer in Canada is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and community. What began as a small movement has blossomed into a dynamic and influential industry that continues to captivate beer lovers nationwide. As more and more Canadians embrace the diverse and flavorful world of craft beer, the future of brewing in Canada looks brighter than ever. So, raise a glass to the craft beer revolution – a truly Canadian success story that keeps on pouring!
The CJBuzz 