This article was originally published in the May 2015 print edition of Ottawa Magazine

The region is frothing over with breweries. Jordan Duff sips his way through the city — and beyond — to gather all the info you need to map out a year’s worth of suds-driven tours

Just a few short years ago, Ottawa was home to a mere handful of breweries and brew pubs. Today we have more than two dozen, with still more on the horizon before the year is out. We’re living in the golden age, my friends! This is a fantastic time for craft beer nerds and casual beer fans alike. And if you can’t find a personal favourite brew at your regular watering hole, visit the source to stock up. Seeing the magic happen at the brewery and talking beer with the owners is always a good decision.

Beyond the Pale Brewing Co.       
Ottawa’s hippest brewery continues to churn out exciting experimental brews to complement their mainstays of Pink Fuzz, Rye Guy, and Darkness. I hope you’re thirsty, because their upcoming move to City Centre will include an increase in production from a 3½-barrel system to a 15-barrel system. Try it: If you’re lucky enough to visit the brewery when a barrel-aged treat is available, don’t hesitate! 5 Hamilton Ave. N., 613-695-2991. beyondthepale.ca.

Bicycle Craft Brewery  
Passionate owners Fariborz and Laura Behzadi are the creative force behind one of the city’s newest breweries, where they apply their combined skills of art and science to a wide variety of brews. Try it: Ask for Base Camp Oatmeal Porter if you’re wanting a medium-bodied dark delight — or be pleasantly surprised by their delicious one-offs. 850 Industrial Ave., 613-408-3326. bicyclecraftbrewery.ca.

Big Rig Brewery      
Big Rig has recently become Bigger Rig, with a second brew pub opening in the east end at Gloucester Centre and a Kanata production facility in the works. The latter will collaborate with other small local breweries to create some liquid gold. Try it: Keep your head up while shopping at the LCBO — their award-winning Black IPA will soon be available. 2750 Iris St., 1980 Ogilvie Rd., 103 Schneider Rd. bigrigbrew.com. (more…)