While Niagara’s beverage industry may best be known for wine, there’s a new drink in town and its introduction is thanks to Niagara College whose Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program is the first of its kind in Canada. Backed by Ontario Craft Brewers, this program is producing quality additions to the brewing industry with every member of the first graduating class entering the workforce in their field.

We were naturally curious about the brewing buzz and went for a visit to the retail store, attached to the teaching brewery facility. In the shop you can taste what’s on tap, take home some bottles or fill a growler. In fact, they also offer a growler club for $15 a month that gets members first dibs on seasonal brews with limited availability.

Uncle Dunkel Rauch

This beer has a very complex and interesting nose. In the glass it reveals an aroma reminiscent of smoked meat…think bacon. It also reveals hickory and ignites a craving for T-bone steak! The smoke continues on the palate, but what is most notable about this beer is the dominance on the nose that indicates a heavy palate… but it doesn’t have one. It has a light and refreshing mouthfeel with medium flavour intensity. This is an excellent aspect of this beer – not too heavy to enjoy with a hearty meal. And this beer deserves a very hearty meal!

Try this beer with: Ribs! Steak! Anything from the BBQ is going to be a major palate pleaser paired with this beer.

Bier Bear Beer

A half wheat and half pilsner, the Bier Bear Beer is a rock star on the palate. It’s bright and refreshing – light but with a rich mouthfeel. In the glass it appears just a bit cloudy and that’s a great thing. This is the influence of the wheat beer taking over! There’s a hint of baking spice, specifically clove, on the nose and palate of this beer, which is inviting and warm. This is matched with a punch of fruitful flavours that liven up the senses. Bier Bear Beer is a great beer for the patio, to sip with friends, or to enjoy with a meal!

Try this beer with: Deviled eggs! Cruise the family reunion food table for deviled eggs and fall into the flavour country. This is a great pairing option for this particular beer.

Colour Me Gluten Free Wit Beer

As the title indicates, this is a gluten free beer, as are all wit beers because of the grains that are used in the brewing process. This beer is delicious. Bright and inviting on the palate with major baking spice flavours: think clove, coriander and nutmeg. There’s also a beautiful citrus twist to this beer, making it ideal for a summer patio or poolside libation. Delicious.

Try this beer with: Crab or shrimp with the classic squeeze of lemon to garnish. Say hello to the fruits de mers and let your palate sing sweet melodies with this high tide pairing option!