9 breweries and distilleries to try in Saskatoon
This post was originally published on the Tourism Saskatchewan blog.
Is it possible to have too much of a good thing?
Saskatoon has so many locally operated breweries and distilleries that it would take a couple of weeks to visit all nine on this list (you may want to take a few breaks in between). You'll find award-winning spirits, crisp ciders, ales brewed with locally grown ingredients, and an overall level of quality born from passion and commitment to craft.
9 Mile Legacy Brewing Company
A small but mighty brewery in Saskatoon's Riversdale neighborhood, 9 Mile Legacy Brewing Company was named after the nine-mile gap between the founders' family farms. Several of the beers on offer are brewed in collaboration with restaurants and other breweries.
High Key Brewing Co.
High Key Brewing Co. makes traditional ales and porters, with surprising seasonal beers like the Pomegranate Pale Ale. Find their brews at bars and restaurants across the province.
Prairie Sun Brewery
What happens when a man from Humboldt, Saskatchewan and a woman from Boulder, Colorado combine their passion for the perfect craft beer? Prairie Sun, a brewery with a reputation for excellent beer made with Saskatchewan-influenced flavors.
LB Distillers
Before you ask what "LB" stands for, know that the company's founders parlayed a lucky lottery ticket into an award-winning distillery. LB Distillers carries a full line of cocktail-ready spirits, liqueurs, and bitters.
Shelter Brewing Company
Shelter Brewing Company labels itself as a "nano brewery," with three core brews and four seasonal offerings available at its spare but warm and inviting taproom in downtown Saskatoon. Shelter's beer is only sold from its taproom, so take the time to drop by and try a glass. Have a taco or three while you're there - drinking can be hungry work.
Paddock Wood Brewing Co.
Paddock Wood Brewing Co.'s history is a classic independent brewer's story. In the early '90s, Steve Cavan moved from Ontario to Saskatchewan. Finding that craft beer was hard to come by in Saskatoon, Cavan learned the art of brewing from the ground up, eventually starting a microbrewery. Today, Paddock Wood-brewed beers can be found at liquor stores and bars throughout Regina and Saskatoon.
Black Fox Farm & Distillery
Black Fox Farm & Distillery collects awards for its products the way most of us collect spoons or parking tickets. Recently, the distillery won "World's Best Cask Gin" at the World Gin Awards for its unique oaked gin. Book a tour of the farm, just a short drive from Saskatoon, and sample a spirit or liqueur in the tasting room.
Stumbletown Distilling
One of Saskatoon's newest distilleries, Stumbletown Distilling boasts the first vodka made with 100 per cent locally grown Saskatchewan purple wheat. Book a tour and tasting to learn about their story and the distilling process, followed of course by samples.
Crossmount Cider Company
Cider lovers, your cider-related prayers have been answered. Made from apples grown on the Glen at Crossmount orchards and pressed at the cidery, the Crossmount Cider Company offers five flavors - from traditional hard cider to spiced and even hopped recipes. Find it at pubs around the province, or visit the Glen at Crossmount for tastings and tours.
Get inspired
