As far as I remember, back in my youth, Molson Canadian or Budweiser were always the beer of choice. Through the years, I have found that taste palette has changed.... or as I would like to say, evolved. Being in the forefront of many social gatherings, my choice of beers would evolve buying beers in green bottles because it appeared fancier (you know the Stella Artois and Heineken bottles, remember those?) This past week I put my beer palette to the test! I was invited to try sample beers including Beau's Beer - Ontario, Erdinger - German and Stone Brewing - USA. Oh how the times have changed!! The landscape of the beer market has never quenched my thirst on so many different levels!
This is a great time to be a beer fanatic because their are so many choices and options available. So long are the days when your choices were Canadian, Bud or Coors Light. To be honest, my knowledge of the beer industry & process is lacking. The number of independent and local breweries is a great indication of the thriving craft beer market and what I've been missing out on. One favourite that comes to mind is the Flying Monkey's line of beers...goes down nice and easy!
As mentioned earlier, I was invited a few days ago to the launch of Stone Brewing Co. from California at Bier Markt. I had the opportunity to try the Stone IPA and the Arrogant Bastard Ale. I enjoyed sampling both beers paired with the new menu offerings from Chef Michael Cipollo, Executive Chef for Bier Markt. I have to admit, I have never heard of the beer company before but they are apparently one of the biggest craft brewers in the USA. ( I learn something new every day!) They have been distributing in Ontario which is becoming a crowded space for Craft beers. I love and favour support of any local beer so this is a bold and smart move for Stone Brewing Co. Stone Brewing is already an established Craft Brewer; they couldn't have entered a market at a better time! Craft Brewing will be one of the food and drink trends this year in my opinion. In Toronto, with so many beer & food events it will be an exciting year for beer.
On that note, the folks at Bier Markt have given me the opportunity to let my readers WIN a $50 Gift Card to be used at any of their locations. Good Luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
