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 are opening 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.
Longtooth Brewing Co.
Location: Stirling
If you’ve always wanted to try a European-style beer without the 12 hour plane ride, Longtooth Beverage Co. might be your new favourite brewery. Located in the small community of Stirling, the brewery also offers dine-in or take-out menu options, so you can have a bite while you have your brew.
Must Trys:
Try both the Longtooth Pale Ale and Longtooth Lager for a refreshing take on beer.
Base Camp Brewery
Location: Almonte
Brand new in Almonte, Base Camp Brewing company is fast becoming a popular community gathering space. Be there for one of their trivia nights for some 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, Cold Bear Brewing Co.’s brews are made with local ingredients so you will be truly tasting the valley in every sip.
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
Wild and bone dry, these ciders are not your usual run-of-the-mill cider! The apples that go into the cider here are certified organic wild apples hand harvested with only additions of locally grown ingredients like local honey, fruits, or botanicals.
Must Trys:
These folks have 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
The paint on this craft brewery’s sign is likely still drying, as they only opened in April 2023. Their name stems from their location next to Canada’s oldest metal swing bridge, which also happens to make a great spot for a photo.
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.
Honourable Mention
Square Timber Brewing Co.
Location: Pembroke
This Indigenous-led brewery has been in business for a while now, but they are in the process of relocating to a brand-new location in Pembroke. For now you can sstill get their products by ordering online. Specializing in “hand-hewn” ales and lagers (pun intended), artisanal beer lovers will enjoy their unique take on flavours.
Must Trys:
They are all good, but we recommend the Woito Station. These brews are craft all the way, and are unfiltered for the real brewing experience.
