Beer Canada Brings Back Bob & Doug to Fan Faux Flames of Beer Tax Ire

Beer Canada has once again employed Bob and Doug McKenzie, Canada’s most famous fictional hosers, to tell Canadians about all the bad things the federal government is doing to their beer. A new set of radio and web-only ads have… Continue Reading →

Dueling Liquor Store Videos Tell Half Truths

You may have seen or heard about the recent The Beer Store (TBS) campaign arguing against selling beer in grocery and convenience stores. A website (here) and a series of videos featuring world curling champion Glen Howard claim to present… Continue Reading →

Beer Policy Matters, It Really Does

It is well-known that the Alberta beer industry is in the midst of a huge explosion. We now have over 60 breweries (almost 70 licenses, but I count independent operations, not AGLC licenses). Of which 46 have opened their doors… Continue Reading →

Edmonton Modernizes Brewery Zoning Laws

Late on Monday night Edmonton City Council passed bylaw changes that will make more city districts available for breweries (as well as wineries and distilleries). The bylaw roughly parallels (in intent, not language) a recent bylaw change in Calgary that… Continue Reading →

AIT Panel Rules Against Alberta Mark-Up Policy

On Friday, a panel convened to hear a complaint against Alberta’s new mark-up policy rendered its decision (read the Journal story on the decision). In a split 2-1 decision, they ruled in favour of the complaint by importer Artisan Ales… Continue Reading →

Steam Whistle/GWB Case Goes to Court

The long awaited hearing of the lawsuit launched by Steam Whistle and Great Western Brewing finally takes place tomorrow and Friday (June 22 & 23). The case, over the Alberta government’s changes to mark-up policy and implementation of a grant… Continue Reading →

What’s Up with Excise Duties Going Up?

It’s not news at this point, but in case you hadn’t heard federal excise duties on beer are going up. And up. And up. I have been meaning to turn my attention to this issue for a while but have… Continue Reading →

More Thoughts on Corporate Buy-outs

Since my post the other day on the significance of ABInbev’s purchase of Wicked Weed I have had a few people (including Steve in the comments section – thanks Steve!) send me links to a recent story on the Good… Continue Reading →

Beer Status Quo in New Provincial Trade Agreement

I am almost sorry to write this post, as it dives into the depths of internal trade deals. But that, apparently, is what I do, so here goes… Late last week, the federal government and provinces announced the new Canada… Continue Reading →

Edmonton Looking to Loosen Brewery Rules

A draft report soon to go to Edmonton City Council proposes amending Edmonton’s development by-laws to allow small breweries in a broader range of locations. I won’t tell you how I got my hands on the document but I can… Continue Reading →

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YEG Hidden Gems Beer Pairing Dinner

November 7. The craft beer scene in Edmonton has been exploding in recent years with many new breweries and interesting beer being created. Come try a few of the city’s hidden beer gems, curated by beer writer and educator Jason Foster. Each beer will be paired with a dish specifically designed for the beer by Underground’s executive chef. It will be an evening of exploration, education and enjoyment!

Book an Event

Looking for a new and original fundraising idea for your organization? Want to offer something a little different to your clients?