April showers are supposed to bring May flowers, but with a dry April in the books and early blooms, we might want to start treating May like the early summer it has become. On that note, with Victoria Day essentially ringing in the start of summer, it’s time to switch from spring to summer in your beer fridge as well.
Every summer for the last 10 years, a group of dedicated cyclists get together and ride in the Cycle of Life tour for hospice care on Vancouver Island. One hundred twenty-five riders will put in over 200 km on July 20 and 21, and you can support their cause by not only donating but also by drinking beer.
Hoyne Brewing has been supporting the ride for 10 years now and continues to do so with their Das RAD beer. This year, the German Pale Ale will be available at Liquor Plus locations and the Hoyne growler bar in Rock Bay. With proceeds from the beer going to Vancouver Island hospices, it’s an easy way to give back.
If you’re looking for a fun night of food and beer and happen to be near Metchosin, check out the collaboration tasting event happening at Mile Zero Brewing on May 8 with Hide N Seek, offering a selection of paired Asian tapas to go along with the selection of beers that evening. With the choice of food flights or full plates, you can mix and match some delightful combinations and experience delicious pairings. The event starts at 4:30 PM and goes until closing or they’ve run out, so don’t miss out.
If you can’t wait to wander out even further to try out what will be the newest brewery in the Capital Region, fear not, it should be happening soon. David Aiken out at Checkerhead Brewing in Shirley is getting closer by the day and should have beers flowing through the taps pretty soon.
If you’re familiar with the project, you’ll know how entertaining and informative he has been about it since day one, so if you want to learn more about the entire process and find out exactly when the brewery is open, follow along on his adventures through his social media.
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