Tasted: Black Creek, Neustadt Springs, and Railway City
Ahh, craft beer. Once difficult to find, these microbrewed gems are experiencing a resurgence in popularity unlike anything seen lately. New artisan breweries are popping up all over the place allowing beer lovers lots of opportunities to sip and savour. Like wine, the brewmaster’s goals, tastes and experience will determine the final outcome. There’s a beer out there for every palate, so go out and try some!
Grand River Brewing Russian Gun Imperial 8%, Ontario
Black and brooding, this powerful stout is in some ways similar to the Black Creek offering with chocolate, mocha and roasted malt aromas figuring prominently. Things are a bit different in the mouth. The overall impression is a brew that’s rich, less tart and with a distinctively sweet edge. Loads of rich coffee flavours enhance the long, silky finish. ($4.95/500 ml)
Black Creek Historic Brewery Porter 5%, Ontario
Following the historic techniques, tools and traditions employed by Ontario brewers in the 1860s, Black Creek Historic Brewery eschews refrigeration, pasteurization and other modern “improvements” to the brewing process. The smoky/toasty aroma also shows traces of buckwheat honey, anise and espresso. A lighter-bodied porter, it is gently malty and smooth on the palate, finishing with a refreshing dryness and hint of bitterness. ($3.55/500 ml)
Neustadt Springs Brewery 10W30 Premium Dark Ale 5.5%, Ontario
Toasted malt, liquorice, molasses and coffee grounds enhanced with just a whiff of smokiness. Full and creamy in the mouth with a commendable combination of malt/hops and a refreshing touch of bitterness as the lingering flavour trails off. ($2.70/473 ml)
Railway City Brewing Company Iron Spike Blonde 4.3%, Ontario
An aromatic brew featuring toasty oatmeal, citrus zest, a hint of honey and some biscuit overtones. Full-flavoured and malty with a nice balance of hop and malt combining with toasted grain and fruity/floral notes that linger on the long, clean finish. At once crisp and refreshing yet flavourful and moderately complex. ($2.40/473 ml)