Whereas normally this column would be full of upcoming events, and what you can expect for the next month, things have changed significantly in a matter of days let alone weeks.
So now that we’re all hopefully at home taking care of ourselves and our families, what can we do to enjoy good, local craft beer, all while still being responsible and following the recommendations we keep being told?
One of the great things about the craft beer industry is how nimble it can be. While taprooms are closed, a multitude of options for pick-up and delivery have popped up in a matter of days. Phillips Brewing is doing their part, offering a contactless pick-up option where you just park, send them a message of what you would like, and they come outside, you tap to pay, they put it in your trunk, and you’re on your way. In addition to Phillips and their drive-up, many other breweries are offering some level of pick-up options at this time, so when you’re out stocking up on the staples, stop by a local brewery to stock up on craft beer.
For those unable to make it out of the house, breweries haven’t forgotten about you either. Whistle Buoy Brewing, Sooke Oceanside Brewery and Category 12 Brewing are all currently offering delivery throughout most of the Capital Region, so you don’t even have to leave the house. They each have set up online stores to offer their beer through delivery, making it even easier to enjoy their beers without leaving the comfort of your home. Expect to see more breweries transitioning to this in the coming days and weeks.
As I write this, new plans from other breweries may be in the works, so follow your favourite local breweries on their social media to find out how you can continue to support them, while still getting to enjoy some of the best beer out there.
When things start to return to normal, the craft beer industry and the hospitality industry will be needing the support we’ve provided them for as long as we can remember.
The events that were postponed or cancelled will make their way back and they will become a great way to reconnect with friends and family. Pubs, brewery tasting rooms and restaurants will once again be the social gathering places they have been, and I’m sure we’ll all want to get out of the house for a bit anyway.
In the meantime, be safe, be well, and take care of each other.
Find some other pearls of craft beer wisdom in past columns by Mathieu Poirier:
Looking back on the year in beer
Big on Bocks: Ancient German lager/ale has many different styles, flavours
Options for pairing beers with holiday fare
editor@mondaymag.com
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