Call it an Alberta gold rush. One that is best served cold. Thanks to two landmark changes in provincial legislation, along with a powerful — and growing — appetite for local food and drink, the craft brewery business in Wild Rose Country is in full bloom. In less than three years, the number of craft breweries and small brewpubs (defined as brewers producing less than 300,000 hectolitres per year) has almost quadrupled, going from 14 to 52. According to the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, there are another eight craft brewery licences pending. And according to some industry observers, things could double again within five years. Alberta Small Brewers Association executive director Terry Rock is convinced microbreweries are the next big thing for Alberta’s economy and tourism.
JURIS GRANEY – Edmonton Journal – September 16, 2016.
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