Lifestyle

Calgary, AB, Canada has opened up a host of craft breweries in the last five years. They are increasing in popularity so quickly that most beer enthusiasts can’t keep up with them all. With recent breweries springing up all over Calgary, especially near universities, it’s a good thing regulations in recent years, have changed. Now, breweries can make smaller batches, which allow them to experiment and offer a wider variety of beers. In recent years, Calgary has become a beer destination.

We have put together of some of the most popular breweries in Calgary. There are plenty more for you to choose from if you decide to take your own self-guided beer tour through Calgary. However, here are the ones that we believe should definitely make your list.

1. Annex Ale Project – In addition to the craft beer that they offer, they have also opened up an adult soda shop. Annex is one of the first breweries to come along and that is located in the barley belt. People in the community who have a strong appreciation for ales manage it. In the adult soda shop, spirits can be combined with the sodas made in the soda shop. There is also a burger join in the building that would pair perfectly with one of the ales offered at Annex Ale Project.
2. Big Rock – There are some who do not see Big Rock s a craft brewery because of how big it is but we don’t see things that way. While Big Rock has found its roots in Calgary, it has expanded to Toronto and Vancouver. It is a staple in the Calgary area, which brings patrons back time and time again.
3. Banded Peak Brewing – This is not a bells and whistles type of brewery in Calgary. It is a mountain-themed brewery in the Manchester industrial area. They keep their regular beers on tap and introduce seasonal beers too. The production area is available for all to see.
4. Citizen Brewing Company – This is a small taproom located in northeast Calgary with 150-seat patio and a hop garden. They offer a wide selection of craft beers and simple food options is available, which is cooked in a shipping container situated outside on the patio. Some would agree that the food and beers are definitely above average. We believe that this is reason enough to put Citizen Brewing Company on your list of breweries to visit on your tour.
5. Dandy Brewing Company – This Calgary brewery has a variety of beers but is widely known for its signature Oyster Stout. It offers smaller batches of its craft beers but they are only offered n the taproom. Dandy is certainly a favorite among locals but is fast becoming a destination of choice for visitors to the city.
6. Cold Garden is eclectic and welcoming. While it doesn’t offer food, the laid-back setting and good beer is enough for most of the people who come here. It is in a warehouse space with long tables, couches, and unique décor. Cold Garden is even pet friendly. They offer traditional beers and some not so traditional beers like the Cakeface dessert beer, which is a must if you are visiting Calgary.