Microbreweries and Brew-pubs are becoming more and more popular. People are searching for beer and ales of a different flavour and unique to the region. Something different and often more flavourable compared to beer that is mass produced. They prefer beer that is fresh and hasn't sat around in bottles, for who knows how long. Even with expiry dates, it is not as fresh!
A Microbrewery or a Craft Brewery produce smaller amounts of beer. They are independently owned and operated and very small compared to corporate breweries. They are known for their quality, unique flavours and brewing techniques. Each owner puts a lot of effort in their processing to make themselves stand out from the rest.
Micro-brewing began in the United Kingdom in the 1970's. Artisan brewing had existed in European countries for centuries and eventually spread to other countries. When the breweries began to expand production and distribution, they made deals with pubs, restaurants and other establishments that sold alcohol to showcase their local beer and ales. The number of brewpubs, restaurants and pub houses that brew and sell there products on their own premises has been rising rapidly.
The popular Walkerville Brewery was founded by Hiram Walker in 1890. In 2012, it became what it is today. This brewery was one of the first to start the trend of brew-pubs. Motor Burger was the first restaurant in Windsor to stop the sales of domestic beer and sell only their product under the name of Motor Craft Ales. A couple of other breweries in the area are Midian Brewing and Jack's Gastropub in Kingsville. All of which are more like small, cozy, Mom and Pop businesses with all focus on creating a quality beer for the people.
Owners believe in adding more breweries in the region to keep up the "keep it local" movement. Properties in Windsor are fairly cheap and breweries that are already in operation encourage other business people to become part of the trend. The more there are, the larger the variety of beer and ales there is. It's job creation, adds to the economy and gives Windsor something fresh and unique to be known for, even though, microbreweries are becoming a thing everywhere.
In 2013, the Windsor Craft Beer Festival was founded. Something that beer lovers in Windsor-Essex can call their own and enjoy. The festival, in it's first year, attracted many that live outside of the Windsor-Essex region. This year, organizers are hopeful that the number of attendees will be higher. New breweries have been developed and are operating throughout the city since last year. More people have come to like the idea of having something a bit different to do. Each brewery will have it's own signature beer and will be more than happy to serve it to you! You will find some of Ontario's best craft brews and great food from some of the regions best restaurants and pubs.
This year's Windsor Craft Beer Festival will be held in Historic Olde Walkerville. For two days, October 17 (5:00pm to 10:30pm) and Saturday October 18 (3:00pm-10:30pm). Times subject to change.
More information can be found at windsorbeerfestival.com
Written By: Mike Crawford
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