March is a dream for Victoria craft beer lovers. So many events occur this month, from Victoria Beer Week to Tap Takeovers and more, and this year, we’ll also get to welcome the new look of Vancouver Island Brewing.
Beer of the Month:
Driftwood Brewing Singularity 2017
Bourbon Barrel Aged Russian Imperial Stout
13.2% ABV
One of the most anticipated seasonal beers of the year throughout the province, Driftwood released this year’s edition in February, and it's going fast.
This Imperial Stout, a style developed in the 19th century to win over Russian Czars, is described by Driftwood as a “Beer of Infinite Density.” Aged in bourbon barrels, this rich, dark beer plays with chocolate and coffee notes, with hints of dried fruit and vanilla. This strong beer is best served just below room temperature, and is perfect for cellaring away to let the flavours mature, if you can keep yourself from drinking it right away.
I highly recommend buying one for now and one to cellar as this release won’t be around for long.
Event(s) of the Month:
Smiths Pub has become as a go-to destination for its tap takeovers. With the breweries they’ve managed to bring in over the last few months (Dageraad, Persephone, Townsite and Sooke Oceanside to name a few), they’ve put on some great nights with great beers. This March, they have three takeovers lined up and the breweries are quite impressive.
March 8th, Tofino Brewing Company will be back in town for their annual early March visit. They’ll mostly be serving their core beers, but you never know what to expect when they’re in town.
March 11th, coming from the Kootenays, Torchlight Brewing, a relative newcomer, and Fernie Brewing, a seasoned veteran, will be arriving with a wide range of about a dozen beers combined between the two.
Finally, March 29th is a real treat. From across the country, Brasserie Dunham will be showcased that evening. Recently named top brewery in Canada by RateBeer, this event is definitely high on the list of events not to miss.
Smiths Pub’s tape takeovers start at 5:00 PM, and go until the beer is gone.
Tip of the Month:
Always drink your beer out of a glass. Since taste is so reliant on smell, pouring your beer can enhance the aroma as well as release some of the volatile compounds. As well, you’ll remove some of the excess carbonation, allowing you to drink without getting as full.
— Mathieu is the mastermind behind matterofbeer.com