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Join hosts Darren Binnema and Azlan Graves on "Why This Beer?" as they dive into the world of craft brewing. Each episode features engaging interviews with fellow brewers, uncovering the unique ingredients and processes behind their favourite beers. Expect positive vibes, insightful conversations, and plenty of learning along the way. Whether you're a seasoned brewer or a beer enthusiast, "Why This Beer?" offers a refreshing take on what makes each brew special.
31 Episodes
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In this episode of 'Why This Beer', Azlan and Darren are joined by Mike Roberts from Cru Brewing Systems. They explore Mike's journey from a novice brewer to a craft solutions facilitator, discussing the evolution of brewing techniques, the importance of equipment innovation, and the unique challenges faced by brewers across different regions. The conversation delves into the intricacies of decoction brewing, the significance of brewing equipment design, and the cultural differences in...
In this episode, Azlan Graves and Darren Binnema welcome Andy Thomas from Hook Norton Brewery, exploring the rich history and innovative practices of one of England's oldest breweries. Andy shares his journey from the cask shed to brewery supervisor, emphasizing the importance of tradition and collaboration in brewing. The conversation delves into the brewing process, the significance of freshness in cask beer, and the influence of North American brewing culture. Together, they discuss...
Summary In this episode, Azlan Graves and Darren Binnema engage in a captivating conversation with Olivier Moreau, a unique figure in the craft beer industry who transitioned from brewing to coopering. Olivier shares his journey, detailing the evolution of his brewing company, and the challenges faced in sourcing barrels. The discussion delves into the art of barrel aging, the importance of sanitation, and the innovative techniques used in crafting unique flavors, particularly with maple bru...
Summary In this conversation, Ian Cameron from Balebreaker Brewing shares his journey into the craft beer industry, detailing his unique path from studying commerce to becoming a brewer in Yakima, Washington. The discussion covers the evolution of Balebreaker Brewing, its connection to Loftus Ranches, and the advantages of brewing with fresh hops. Ian explains the hop selection process, the role of bitterness in beer, and the ingredients that make up their flagship Top Cutter IPA. The conver...
In this episode of 'Why This Beer', hosts Azlan Graves, Darren Binnema, and guests Donovan Fast (Eighty Eight Brewing), Mike Foniok (The Establishment Brewing), and Mitch Warner (Dageraad Brewing) delve into their experiences on the Czech trade mission for brewing professionals. They explore the cultural significance of Czech beer, the immersive experiences they had, and the unique brewing techniques they learned. The conversation highlights the role of diacetyl in Czech beers, the competitiv...
In this episode, Darren and Azlan sit down with Cam McKeigan, co-founder and head brewer of Smithers Brewing Company. Cam shares his journey from home brewing to establishing a successful brewery in Northern BC, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of crafting beer in a small community. The conversation delves into the innovative use of birch sap in brewing, the importance of community support, and the recognition Smithers Brewing has received at national awards. Cam also discusses ...
In this conversation, Martin Szot shares his journey from growing up in a family brewery in Chile to becoming the head brewer at Coast Mountain Brewing in Canada. He discusses the evolution of craft beer styles, the importance of local ingredients, and the unique brewing techniques he employs, particularly for hazy IPAs. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences in craft beer between Chile and Canada, the significance of community support, and the personal passion that drives ...
In this engaging conversation, Mike Foniok discusses the importance of local ingredients in brewing, innovative techniques, and the role of community in crafting unique beers. He shares insights from his recent travels to Czech Republic and Bamberg, emphasizing the cultural significance of beer and the focus on drinkability. Mike also reflects on the evolution of the Canadian brewing scene and offers valuable advice for aspiring brewers, highlighting the importance of palate development and m...
Brad Van Haastregt of GEC Systems shares his journey in the craft brewing industry, focusing on the rise of non-alcoholic options, innovations in canning technology, and the importance of quality control. He discusses the value of sourcing local parts, evolving packaging trends like super ends and new lid designs, and the need for attention to detail to deliver a top-quality product. Throughout, he highlights the collaborative nature of the industry and the drive to innovate during challengin...
Summary In this episode of Why This Beer, hosts Darren and Azlan sit down with Graham With, the Director of Brewing Operations at Parallel 49 Brewing. Graham shares his journey from home brewing to leading one of Vancouver's most recognized craft breweries. The conversation delves into the challenges of starting a brewery, the evolution of Parallel 49, and the importance of community in the craft beer industry. They also explore the Craft Pilsner, its inspiration, and the brewing techniques ...
In this episode, Azlan and Darren welcome Brad Tomlinson, a passionate brewer from Jackknife, who shares his unique journey into the world of craft beer. The conversation explores Brad's early inspirations, the discovery of Kveik yeast, and the significance of traditional brewing practices showcased at the Kornøl Festival in Norway. Brad emphasizes the importance of honoring yeast cultures and sustainable practices in brewing, while also discussing his award-winning raw ale, Hunting Lodge. Th...
In this episode, Azlan and Darren welcome Chris Lewington from the Modern Brewer podcast to discuss his journey in the craft beer industry, from his early experiences in brewing to his current focus on sustainability and efficiency in brewing practices. Chris shares insights on the challenges of contract brewing, the importance of resourcefulness in brewing, and his experiences working in the British Virgin Islands. The conversation highlights the evolution of the craft beer scene, the signif...
Guest: Ben Howe, Otherlands Beer Main Discussion Points: Ben’s Journey into Brewing: Ben shares how cultural heritage and personal philosophy have shaped his approach to brewing, leading to the founding of Otherlands Beer. Brewing in a Lager-Dominant Region: A look at the challenges and unique opportunities of brewing in an area where lagers reign supreme, and how Otherlands Beer stands out in the craft beer scene. Spotlight on Haladuda: A deep dive into Haladuda, its cultural roots, the crea...
Guest: Jeremy Taylor, Co-Founder & Head Brewer of 2 Crows Brewing Topics Discussed: Jeremy’s journey into brewing, from his first exposure to craft beer in Vancouver to moving across the country and establishing 2 Crows Brewing in Halifax.The challenges and adjustments of brewing on the East Coast, including differences in craft beer markets.The evolution of 2 Crows Brewing over nearly a decade—how the vision has shifted, what they’ve embraced that seemed unlikely in the beginning, ...
1Guest: Tristan Stewart, Founder of Temporal Artisan Ales Topics Discussed: Tristan’s journey into brewing, from his first exposure to craft beer to his transition from nomadic brewing to establishing a permanent location for Temporal Artisan Ales.The challenges and unexpected positives of being a "nomadic" brewer and working in various setups, including his favorite and most unconventional brewing equipment.Influential beers that shaped Tristan’s brewing philosophy, including his “north-star”...
Guest: Brent Mills, Co-founder of Four Winds Brewing Topics Discussed: Brent’s journey into brewing, from his first exposure to craft beer, and his time at R&B, to launching Four Winds in 2013.The opening of The Beach House in Tsawwassen’s Southlands—how it differs from the original tasting room and what guests can expect.The dynamics of running a brewery as a family business and how it has shaped Four Winds’ evolution.Four Winds’ approach to brewing, from its Belgian-inspired roots to it...
Guest: Dr. Euan Thomson, Founder and CEO of Raft Labs Topics Discussed: Euan's journey in craft beer, including his time at Phillips Brewing and harvesting a lactobacillus culture.Founding Raft Labs during the COVID-19 pandemic and their pivot to producing hand sanitizer.Horror stories of contamination points in craft breweries and how to avoid them.Optimizing beer quality beyond simply preventing contamination.A deep dive into Yellow Dog Brewing’s Squirrel Chaser and Amigos Crisp Lager.Euan’...
Guest: Jonas from Cabin Brewing Summary: In this episode, Darren and Azlan sit down with Jonas from Cabin Brewing, their first guest from Alberta. Jonas shares how his passion for homebrewing evolved into co-founding Cabin Brewing and creating their flagship beer, Super Saturation. They explore Alberta’s craft beer scene, standout beers like ‘Fuego’ and ‘Sunshine Rain,’ and industry trends like higher hopping rates and smaller packaging formats. Collaboration, brewing education, and innovatio...
Guest: Jeff Kurkowski, Head Brewer at Godspeed Brewing Topics Discussed: Jeff’s journey through the brewing industry, including working at multiple Ontarian breweries of various sizes.His music career and experiences touring North America with bands.Brewing Czech-inspired lagers and the creative challenges they present.Using Saaz hops and the agricultural difficulties associated with them.The craft of working with pitch-lined barrels and the re-pitching process.Exploring cask culture and its ...
Guest: Noëlle Phillips, Ph.D., Professor at Douglas College and author of Brewmasters and Brewery Creek. Topics Covered: Introduction to Noëlle Phillips and Her WorkHer background as a professor at Douglas College.Overview of her new book Brewmasters and Brewery Creek: a story about independent brewing in Vancouver.Medieval Beer CultureNoëlle's interest in medieval beer culture.The historic role of beer in medieval societies.Raven's Cream Ale and Its Historical LinksDiscussion on Raven's Crea...
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