5 Hopping New Breweries (and a cidery) to Explore this Summer
We are so excited about the number of new craft breweries and cideries that have opened their doors in Ontario’s Highlands! There have been a few good ones who entered the space in the last few years that beer lovers will want to check out.
Find your new favourite brew at one of these up-and-coming spots!
Base Camp Brewery
Location: Almonte
Brand new to Almonte in 2025, Base Camp Brewing Company has quickly become a popular gathering space known for ‘engaging the community through great beer and relationships’. With names like Trailhead and Compass, every beer reflects the spirit of exploration. Be there for one of their trivia nights to experience some good old-fashioned brew house fun!
Must Trys:
Get some of their Vienna Lager before they run out, but all their brews are worth sampling.
Cold Bear Brewing Co.
Location: Arnprior
Uniquely Ottawa Valley and family owned, Cold Bear Brewing Co.’s beers are made with local ingredients, so you truly taste the valley in every sip. Located near the Madawaska River, Cold Bear is a family friendly space to enjoy some trivia, board games or delicious bites to eat!
Must Trys:
The unique name alone is reason enough to try this beer – the Madawaska Bohemian Pilsner is made using local malt from Mississippi Mills Malting and has a crisp, refreshing finish that will be perfect for a hot summer day.
Brooker’s Cider
Location: Bonnechere Valley
Naturally wild, these ciders are anything but run-of-the-mill! The wild apples used in these ciders are certified organic and hand harvested with the addition of locally grown ingredients such as honey, fruits and botanicals. This small-batch and family-run cidery focuses on quality where they harvest, press and bottle every batch themselves.
Must Trys:
Brooker's has a new type of cider every year, based on what was grown the previous season so you will need to stay on your toes to get some of their cider before they run out!
Bridge Masters Brewing Co.
Location: Perth
Located at the foot of Canada’s oldest metal swing bridge, Bridge Master’s not only boasts the perfect photo op, but a chance to indulge in some rich, local culture. With a delicious beer-inspired menu, live music every Friday, music bingo, book club and more – Bridge Master’s offers more than just amazing beer.
Must Trys:
Don’t – we repeat – don’t miss out on one of their soft pretzels! With fun names (we are in love with the “Walk Don’t Run”) you may well be inspired to try them all.
Dog House Brewing Co.
Location: Petawawa
Veteran owned and operated, this family run brewery is deeply rooted in the local history of nearby military base, Garrison Petawawa. Serving up war-inspired beers with a side of nostalgia, each carefully chosen label has a story behind it to match its flavor, and with a membership option, you can try them all!
Must Trys:
Register your team for a wild night of trivia, SINGO BINGO or for a tour of the establishment, rich in local Petawawa history.
