Ontario Craft Brewers' Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ontario Craft Brewers
If you love your beer, you've come to the right place. Each episode of Ontario Brewer features an interview with one of Ontario's craft brewers along with news from the province's small brewing industry.
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for December, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed Double IPAs. She is once again joined by Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News, and Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com.
Having correctly guessed which Double IPA was in front of them in the last podcast, Robin and Greg are looking forward to enjoying two other OCB-brewed interpretations of the style. The three Double IPAs featured this month are Amsterdam's Fracture Imperial IPA, Black Oak's Ten Bitter Years Imperial IPA and Manantler's Seismic Narwahl Imperial IPA.
About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada’s beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.comand @cdnbeernews
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer.www.thethirstywench.com
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News and Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed Double IPA in front of them by asking a series of six questions … can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada's beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.com and @cdnbeernews Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer. www.thethirstywench.com
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for November, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed Belgian Style IPAs. She is once again joined by Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News, and Certified Cicerone and beer columnist, Crystal Luxmore, at craftbeertastings.com.
Having correctly guessed which Belgian Style IPA was in front of them in the last podcast, Crystal and Greg are looking forward to enjoying two other OCB-brewed interpretations of the style. The three Belgian Style IPAs featured this month were Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company’s B-side Gigantic Brewing La Formidable American-Belgo IPA, Great Lakes Brewery’s Audrey Hopburn and The Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery’s La Belle Epoque.
About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada’s beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.comand @cdnbeernews
Crystal Luxmore is a beer writer and Certified Cicerone whose stories appear in The Globe & Mail, Sun Media, enRoute and more. She leads beer tastings for corporate and private clients, and talks about beer trends on Global TV and CBC Radio. www.craftbeertastings.com
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News and Certified Cicerone and beer columnist, Crystal Luxmore, at craftbeertastings.com. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed Belgian Style IPA in front of them by asking a series of six questions … can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada’s beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.com and @cdnbeernews
Crystal Luxmore is a beer writer and Certified Cicerone whose stories appear in The Globe & Mail, Sun Media, enRoute and more. She leads beer tastings for corporate and private clients, and talks about beer trends on Global TV and CBC Radio. www.craftbeertastings.com
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for September, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed Stouts. She is once again joined by Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com, and historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca
Having correctly guessed which stout was in front of them in the last podcast, Robin and Jordan are looking forward to enjoying two other OCB-brewed interpretations of the style. The three stouts featured this month were Granite Brewery Keefe's Irish Stout, Mill Street Cobblestone Stout*, and Perth Brewery Oatmeal Stout.
- At the time these podcasts were recorded, Mill Street Brewery was still a member of Ontario Craft Brewers. Since then, the brewery has been purchased and has left OCB. We thank Mill Street for their past contributions and wish them well in the future. Click here for OCB's response to Mill Street's sale.
About our two guests this month:
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer.www.thethirstywench.com
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com, and Historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed stout in front of them by asking a series of six questions …can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer. www.thethirstywench.com
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for September, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed American-style pale ales. She is once again joined by cookbook author David Ort from davidort.com, and historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca.
Having correctly guessed which American-style pale ale was in front of them in the last podcast, David and Jordan are looking forward to enjoying two other OCB-brewed interpretations of the style. The three American-style pale ales featured this month were Collective Arts Rhyme & Reason Pale Ale, Collingwood Brewery Downhill Pale Ale, and Side Launch Pale Ale.
About our two guests this month:
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter @ortdavid
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Cookbook author David Ort from davidort.com, and Historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca.
These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed American-style pale ale in front of them by asking a series of six questions … can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter @ortdavid
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for August, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed saisons. She is once again joined by Certified Cicerone and beer columnist, Crystal Luxmore, at craftbeertastings.com and historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca.
Having correctly guessed which saison was in front of them in the last podcast, Crystal and Jordan are looking forward to enjoying two other OCB-brewed interpretations of the style. The three saisons featured this month were Block 3 King Street Saison, Niagara Oast House Brewers Saison and Nickel Brook Le Paysan Saison.
About our two guests this month:
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer, and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
Crystal Luxmore is a beer writer and Certified Cicerone whose stories appear in The Globe & Mail, Sun Media, enRoute and more. She leads beer tastings for corporate and private clients, and talks about beer trends on Global TV and CBC Radio. www.craftbeertastings.com
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Certified Cicerone and beer columnist, Crystal Luxmore, at craftbeertastings.com and Historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed saison in front of them by asking a series of six questions … can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer, and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
Crystal Luxmore is a beer writer and Certified Cicerone whose stories appear in The Globe & Mail, Sun Media, enRoute and more. She leads beer tastings for corporate and private clients, and talks about beer trends on Global TV and CBC Radio. www.craftbeertastings.com
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for July, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed pilsners. She is once again joined by Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com and Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News.
After being stumped by the pilsner in front of them in the last podcast, Greg and Robin are looking forward to sitting back and enjoying two more OCB-brewed examples of the style. The three pilsners featured this month were Old Credit Pale Pilsner, Ramblin’ Road Country Pilsner and Steam Whistle. About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada’s beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.com and @cdnbeernews
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer. www.thethirstywench.com
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests:
Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com and Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed pilsner in front of them by asking a series of six questions …can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada's beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.com and @cdnbeernews
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer. www.thethirstywench.com
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for June, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed American-style India Pale Ales. She is once again joined by beer Writer Ben Johnson from Ben's Beer Blog and historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca.
After being stumped by the American-style IPA in front of them in the last podcast, Ben and Jordan are looking forward to sitting back and enjoying two more OCB-brewed examples of the style. The three American-style IPAs featured this month were The Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery Smashbomb Atomic IPA, Great Lakes Brewing THRUST! an IPA and Sleeping Giant Brewery's Hoppet IPA.
About our two guests this month:
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
Ben Johnson: Beer Writer • Humorist • Father • Husband • Bike Rider • All Around Charming Son of a Bitch. http://www.bensbeerblog.com
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests, beer Writer Ben Johnson from Ben's Beer Blog and historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John at saintjohnswort.ca.
These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed American-style IPA in front of them by asking a series of six questions ... can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Jordan St.John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
Ben Johnson: Beer Writer • Humorist • Father • Husband • Bike Rider • All Around Charming Son of a Bitch. http://www.bensbeerblog.com
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for May, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues her exploration of OCB-brewed Altbiers. She is once again joined by cookbook author David Ort from davidort.com. Having correctly guessed which Altbier he was tasting in the first May podcast, David joins Mirella in sampling two more Ontario beers brewed in the same style. The three Altbiers featured this month were Beau's All Natural Brewing Co. Festivale, Kilannan Altbier, and Sawdust City Ol' Woody Alt.
About our guest this month: David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter @ortdavid
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by cookbook author David Ort from davidort.com.
Having been stumped by the mystery Bock featured in last month's guessing-game podcast, David is on a mission to correctly identify the OCB-brewed Altbier in front of him today. He can ask a series of six questions to lead him to the correct answer … can you beat him to it?
About our guest this month: David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter @ortdavid
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for April, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues our exploration of OCB-brewed Bocks. She is once again joined by the two featured guests for April: cookbook author David Ort from davidort.com and Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com.
The duo were stumped by the Bock they sampled in the last Ontario Brewer Podcast and this week, they dive into two more. The three Bocks featured this month were Amsterdam Spring Bock, Lake of Bays Darcy Tucker Crazy Eyes Winter Bock Lager and Railway City Sham Bock.
About our two guests this month: Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer.www.thethirstywench.com
David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter @ortdavid
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Robin LeBlanc, beer writer and owner of TheThirstyWench.com and cookbook author David Ort from davidort.com.
These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed Bock in front of them by asking a series of six questions …can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer. www.thethirstywench.com
David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter @ortdavid
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for February, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues our exploration of OCB-brewed Brown Ales. She is once again joined by the two featured guests for February: beer Writer Ben Johnson from Ben's Beer Blog and Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News.
The duo successfully guessed which OCB-brewed Brown Ale they sampled in the last Ontario Brewer Podcast and this week, they dive into two more. The three Brown Ales featured this month were Clocktower Bytown Brown, Left Field Eephus and Neustadt 10W30.
About our two guests this month:
Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada’s beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.comand @cdnbeernews
Ben Johnson: Beer Writer • Humorist • Father • Husband • Bike Rider • All Around Charming Son of a Bitch. http://www.bensbeerblog.com
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Greg Clow, Publisher & Editor of Canadian Beer News and beer Writer Ben Johnson from Ben's Beer Blog. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed Brown Ale in front of them by asking a series of six questions ... can you beat them to the correct answer? About our two guests this month: Greg Clow is the publisher, editor, and everything-else-er at Canadian Beer News, a comprehensive news website dedicated exclusively to coverage of Canada's beer and brewing industry. www.canadianbeernews.com and @cdnbeernews Ben Johnson: Beer Writer • Humorist • Father • Husband • Bike Rider • All Around Charming Son of a Bitch. http://www.bensbeerblog.com
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for February, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato continues our exploration of OCB-brewed Dark Ales. She is once again joined by the two featured guests for February: historian and beer writer, Jordan St.John and Certified Cicerone and beer columnist, Crystal Luxmore.
The duo successfully guessed which OCB-brewed Dark Ale they sampled in the last Ontario Brewer Podcast and this week, they dive into two more. The three Dark Ales featured this month were the Barley Days Wind & Sail Dark Ale, Stone Hammer Dark Ale and Wellington Dark Ale.
About our two guests this month:
Crystal Luxmore is a beer writer and Certified Cicerone whose stories appear in The Globe & Mail, Sun Media, enRoute and more. She leads beer tastings for corporate and private clients, and talks about beer trends on Global TV and CBC Radio. www.craftbeertastings.com
Jordan St. John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
In this podcast, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is joined by two featured guests: Certified Cicerone and beer columnist, Crystal Luxmore and historian and beer writer, Jordan St. John. These two beer writers are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed Dark Ale in front of them by asking a series of six questions … can you beat them to the correct answer?
About our two guests this month:
Crystal Luxmore is a beer writer and Certified Cicerone whose stories appear in The Globe & Mail, Sun Media, enRoute and more. She leads beer tastings for corporate and private clients, and talks about beer trends on Global TV and CBC Radio. www.craftbeertastings.com
Jordan St. John is a Certified Cicerone, Beer Writer and Historian who trained as a brewer but opted out of having to clean all that equipment. He deals with elaborate concepts and total nonsense at saintjohnswort.ca
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast for 2015, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato is once again joined by our two featured guests for January: cookbook author David Ort and beer writer Robin LeBlanc.
Having successfully guessed which OCB-brewed Russian Imperial Stout they sampled in the first January podcast, the trio dive into two more. The three Russian Imperial Stouts featured this month were the Amsterdam Tempest, Grand River Russian Gun and Nickel Brook Bolshevik Bastard.
About our two guests this month:
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer siteThe Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer.www.thethirstywench.com
David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site atdavidort.com or on Twitter: @ortdavid
In this first podcast for 2015, Master Cicerone Mirella Amato introduces our new guessing-game format. Featured guests, beer writer Robin LeBlanc and cookbook author David Ort are tasked with identifying the OCB-brewed Russian Imperial Stout in front of them. They can ask six questions to help them zero in on the correct answer ... can you beat them to it?
About our two guests this month:
Robin LeBlanc is a Toronto-based Photographer and writer. As the owner of the award-winning craft beer site The Thirsty Wench and Beer Writer for Torontoist, she has appeared on television, radio and newspapers preaching the gospel of good beer. www.thethirstywench.com
David Ort is the author of the Canadian Craft Beer Cookbook, a freelance food and drink writer, and the web editor at PostCity.com. Follow his writing on all things from beer to Toronto restaurants on his site at davidort.com or on Twitter: @ortdavid
In this last Ontario Brewer podcast for 2014, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Matthew O’Hara from Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co. Also in the studio is Lon Ladell, from Big Rig Brewery. Lon and Matthew share their impressions of the beer scene in the Capital Region. Find out:
- How the Ottawa area beer scene has evolved in the past 10 years
- How brewers feel about the current Ottawa region brewery boom
- What’s new in the upcoming 2015 edition of Ontario Brewer
In this Episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone® Mirella Amato chats with Lon Ladell, co-owner and operator at Big Rig Brewery and Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co. brewmaster, Matthew O'Hara. The trio samples a collaboration brew, called Peppermint Porter that was brewed especially for the Ontario Brewer podcast. Find out:
- How to make sure you don't over-mint your beer
- The role that balance plays in a beer’s flavour profile
- Where & when this special limited-edition brew will be released
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for August, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Paul Brady, from Walkerville Brewery Also in the studio is Lon Ladell, from Big Rig Brewery who has brought in a bottle of his seasonal Release the Hounds Black IPA. Find out:
- About the Ottawa beer scene
- How brewers adapt to new equipment
- The origins of the Black IPA style
In this Episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Lon Ladell, co-owner and operator at Big Rig Brewery and Paul Brady, the head brewer for Walkerville Brewery. The trio samples a Milk Stout, currently available from Walkerville Brewery. Find out:
- Where the name Big Rig comes from
- The brewery version of hot chocolate mix
- How to make a hot scotchy
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for October, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Kyle Smith, from Cameron’s Brewing Co. Also in the studio is Dave Jameson, the head brewer for Trafalgar Ales and Meads who also brews the commercial beers for Black Creek Historic Brewery. Dave has brought in a bottle of the Black Creek Pumpkin Ale. Find out:
- How Black Creek Brewery and Trafalgar Ales and Meads are connected
- The difference between historic pumpkin ales and modern examples
- The many ways that a brewer can add "pumpkin flavour" to their beer
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Kyle Smith, who brews at Cameron’s Brewing Co. and Dave Jameson, the head brewer for Trafalgar Ales and Meads. The trio samples one of the beers in the Cameron’s seasonal Brewmaster Series: Resurrection Roggenbier. Find out:
- Why rye beer disappeared in Germany
- How beets are used in brewing
- The many qualities that rye can contribute to beer
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for September, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Mark Murphy, from Left Field Brewery and Austin Roach, from Granite Brewery. The trio chat about the beer scene in Toronto. Find out:
- About classic Toronto craft beer establishments
- How the Toronto bar scene has evolved in the past few years
- Why TV dinners are sometimes very expensive
In this episode of the Ontario Brewer podcast, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with two Toronto brewers: Austin Roach, from Granite Brewery and Mark Murphy, from Left Field Brewery. Mark and Austin have brought in a special, limited-edition beer they brewed together especially for the Ontario Brewer Podcast. Find out:
- How long a beer has to stay in a cask before it’s ready
- Why brewers enjoy brewing on each other's systems
- When the collaboration brew is being launched
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for August, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Ryan Morrow, from Nickel Brook Brewing Co. Also in the studio is Muthu Sakthivel, from Railway City Brewing, who has brought in the feature beer for this podcast, Witty Traveller — a witbier brewed with white pepper. Find out:
- How brewers feel about bottles vs cans
- The best way to package bottle-conditioned beers
- How brewers make sure that unfiltered beers don’t keep fermenting in the bottle
In this Episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with brewmaster Ryan Morrow, from Nickel Brook Brewing Co. and brewmaster Muthu Sakthivel from Railway City Brewing. The trio sample one of Nickel Brook’s summer seasonal brews: Le Paysan Saison. Find out:
- The difference between brewing at a larger brewery and a craft brewery
- How the brewmaster would like his Saison to be enjoyed
- How saisons style beers evolve in the cellar
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for July, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Mike Pentesco, from Niagara Oast House Brewers. Also in the studio is Quality Manager Andrew Crowder from Muskoka Brewery, who has brought in the feature beer for this podcast, Snowy Howell White IPA. Find out:
- About micro-malting efforts in Ontario
- What a quality manager’s role is in the brewery
- About 2 beery Ontario road trips for the summer
In this Episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Mike Pentesco, head brewer at Niagara Oast House Brewers and Andrew Crowder, Quality Manager at Muskoka Brewery. The trio sample a one-off beer by Niagara Oast House Brewers called Bound To Your Own Weisses; a Weissbier brewed with lemongrass and white sage. Find out:
- Which beers are souring in Ontario right now
- About the different ‘bugs’ that can be used to brew beer
- How rock bands sometime collaborate with brewers on making beer
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for June, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by George Eagelson from F&M Brewery (producer of Stone Hammer Beer) and Marvin Dyck, from Wellington Brewery. The trio chat about the beer scene in Greater Southwest Ontario. Find out:
- How brewers feel about pedicures
- How the beer scene in Guelph has evolved in the past 10 years
- About all of the new Guelph area breweries
In this episode of the Ontario Brewer podcast, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with two brewmasters from Guelph: Marvin Dyck, from Wellington Brewery and George Eagelson, from F&M Brewery (producer of Stone Hammer Beer). Marvin and George have brought in a special, limited-edition beer they made together especially for the Ontario Brewer Podcast. Find out:
- Which style of beer can be brewed on a tight deadline
- How you can participate in brewing a beer this coming Father’s Day
- … and witness the naming of a beer!
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for May, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Head Brewer Rob Doyle from the Scarborough location of Mill Street Brewery. Brewmaster Marvin Dyck, from Wellington Brewery, is also in the studio to share his latest limited edition batch of Wellington Brewery Chocolate Milk Stout. Find out:
- An unexpected pairing for the Chocolate Milk Stout
- When lactose is added to Milk Stout
- Some Mill Street beers that are great for cellaring
- What happens when you combine the two feature beers for May …
In this Episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Marvin Dyck, brewmaster at Wellington Brewery and head brewer, Rob Doyle, from the Mill Street Brewery in Scarborough. Rob has brought in one of the brand new beers featured in the Mill Street Brewery Summer Seasonal Sampler: Belgian Style Cherry IPA. Find out:
- About the type of facial hair male brewers like to sport
- How to MacGyver a system to blend fruit juice into the fermenter
- Which farmer’s market ingredient will be in an upcoming Wellington brew
- Why IPAs should be consumed fresh
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for April, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Niagara College Teaching Brewery Brewmaster Program student Jamie Shillow and with Phil DiFonzo, who is the brewmaster at King Brewery. Phil tells the group about an upcoming brand, Barn Door Brewing Company, and talks the group through a tasting of its first release: Toombstone India Pale Lager.
In this Episode of Ontario Brewer, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is joined by one of the students currently enrolled in the Brewmaster Program at The Niagara College Teaching Brewery, Jamie Shillow, as well as the brewmaster from King Brewery, Phil DiFonzo. Jamie has brought in one of her beers, called "Knowledge is Porter" for the group to sample.
Find out:
- How home brewing can lead to professional brewing
- What brewing students learn in school
- How brewers choose the combination of malts that will go into their beer
- About a new brewery in the making...
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for March, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Mark Campbell from Lake of Bays Brewing Co. and Sam Corbeil, from Sawdust City Brewing. The trio chat about the beer scene in Lake Country.
Find out:
- How the beer scene in Muskoka has evolved in the past few years
- Where to find craft beer in Northern Ontario
- How beer can be compared to cheese
- What brewers do when they run out of hops
- Where the 'Bermuda Triangle of Ontario' is located
In this March Ontario Brewer Podcast, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Sam Corbeil, the head brewer at Sawdust City Brewing as well as brewer Mark Campbell from Lake of Bays Brewing Co. Sam and Mark have come in to share their experience collaborating on a special limited edition OCB Podcast brew and have brought the beer in for sampling. The beer, which is called Four Corners, is actually a ‘Black and Tan’ that combines a Witbier called Paris and a Chocolate Stout called Regent ... Find out:
- Which fun co-incidence inspired the three names for these beers
- How to get an intense orange flavour in your beer
- Where to shop for beer in Paris
- How to find the right ratio when blending two beers
- When and where the Four Corners limited edition brew will be released
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for February, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato is once again joined by Black Oak Brewing Co. president, Ken Woods and Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co.brewmaster, Matthew O’Hara. This time, they are sampling St. Luke’s Verse — the latest release in Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company’s Wild Oats Series. Find out:
- The blend of spices used to brew St. Luke’s Verse
- Why young maidens would historically sip lavender tea
- The difference between beer and Gruit (with a little history!)
- How fermentation affects the flavours in beer
- Ingredients to avoid when brewing
In this first Ontario Brewer podcast for February, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Ken Woods, president of Black Oak Brewing Co. and brewmaster Matthew O’Hara from Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co.Together, the trio sample the new Black Oak winter seasonal: Triple Chocolate Cherry Stout. Listen, and find out:
- How Ken and Matthew are connected
- How the old ceramic Beaus All Natural bottles were repurposed
- How chocolate is added three times to the Triple Chocolate Cherry Stout
- The therapeutic benefits of marshmallows
- How brewers experiment with new ingredients and spices
In this second Ontario Brewer podcast for January, Master Cicerone® Mirella Amato is once again joined by brewer Rob Creighton from Grand River Brewing and Darren Smith, owner and president of Lake of Bays Brewing Co. This time, they are sampling the Grand River winter seasonal: Russian Gun Imperial Stout. Find out:
- How brewers in England stopped brewing with malt in the 1800s
- Why the label for Russian Gun Imperial Stout says it’s ‘Flavoured’
- The crazy story behind the name Russian Gun
- How Lake of Bays brewing names their beers
- The challenges involved with brewing seasonal beer in Ontario
- Why canning is so popular in Ontario
- One of the perils of using bottling machines in the brewery
In this first podcast of the 2014 season, Master Cicerone®, Mirella Amato chats with Darren Smith, owner and president of Lake of Bays Brewing Co. and brewer Rob Creighton from Grand River Brewing. Together, the trio sample the first of Lake of Bay’s limited edition Signature Series lineup of tribute beers: China Wall Vienna Dark Lager.
Find out:
- The various reasons why Johnny Bower might have been nicknamed ‘China Wall’
- The ingredients in China Wall Dark Vienna Lager and how it’s different from a standard Vienna Lager
- What the next beer in the series will be
- How brewers can mask alcohol in high alcohol beers
- How the quality of local water affects brewing
- How the entire Baysville liquor was stolen and how it brought the community together
- The perils of creating custom brews for celebrities
… And find out more about Johnny Bower’s storied career at the Hockey Hall of Fame website
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada.
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on the barrel aged beers of Amsterdam Brewery, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM is once again joined by brewer Cody Nolan, who has brought along the Amsterdam De Wallen Barrel Aged Sour Framboise and Barrel Aged Rye Peppercorn Saison.
Also in the studio is cheese educator Debbie Levy, representing Mountainoak Cheese. Debbie has participated in a number of Ontario Brewer beer and cheese pairing podcasts throughout the year and reflects on her experience with the podcasts and how it has sparked an interest in beer.
The trio then embark on a beer and cheese pairing exploration, sampling the two feature Amsterdam beers with three Goudas produced by Mountainoak Cheese: Fiery, Wild Nettle and Fresian. When the group finds itself struggling to find a perfect pairing, Mirella finds a novel solution!
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato explores the topic of barrel aging beer with head brewer Iain McOustra and brewer Cody Nolan from Amsterdam Brewing Co.
Cody and Iain both talk about the new brewing facilities that they’re working in. They then turn their attention to barrel-aged beers, explaining how they use barrels and the learning curve involved in working with new barrels instead of attaining barrel-aged notes using wood chips. They provide details on how they choose which beers to barrel age, how they decide the amount of time a beer will spend in a barrel as well as the various yeasts and bacteria that are involved in barrel-aging and souring beer.
The two brewers then talk more specifically about the feature Amsterdam Beers for this month’s podcasts: Barrel Aged Rye Peppercorn Saison & De Wallen Barrel Aged Sour Framboise.
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM is once again joined by Experimental Brewer Sebastian MacIntosh. Also in the studio is Andrew Laliberte, from Glen Echo Fine Foods. This month, the three cheeses in the podcast are from different producers, all represented by the Dairy Farmers of Canada: Le Riopelle de l’Isle by Fromagerie Ile-aux-grues; Pacific Pepper by Natural Pastures and Applewood Smoked 2 Year Old Cheddar by Cow’s Creamery.
Once Sebastian has talked the group through a tasting of this month’s two feature beers: Flying Monkeys City in Colour Imperial Maple Wheat and Ginger Bread Winter Warmer, the trio dives in to find their favourite beer and cheese interactions — they are surprised by the variety of great results! They also take the time to discuss potential pitfalls when pairing beer with cheese. Find out more about the Dairy Farmers of Canada at: dairyfarmers.ca
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato is joined by Head Brewer Paul Buttery and Experimental Brewery Sebastian MacIntosh from The Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery. Together, the trio discusses the use of spices in beer, using this month's two feature beers — Ginger Bread Winter Warmer and City in Colour Imperial Maple Wheat — as examples.
Before diving in, the two brewers share their individual paths to becoming brewers as well as their current roles at the brewery. They then talk about the various techniques and pitfalls involved in adding spices to beer and the advantages of having pilot brewing systems at the brewery. Paul and Sebastian also talk about some of the other spiced beers they’ve brewed as well as their dream spiced beers.
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Mill Street Brewery, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM is once again joined by Brewmaster Joel Manning. Also in the studio is Debbie Levy, representing Ivanhoe Cheese.
Debbie introduces the three Ivanhoe cheeses for the podcast: a Monterey jack and cheddar cheese with Salsa, a Smoked Gouda and a Vintage Cheddar. She explains how smoke is naturally added to the Gouda and details how salsa flavour is added to the Monterey Jack. Joel the shares his experience pairing beer with cheese.
The trio speculates on how the pairings will work and then try the three cheeses alongside our two feature beers for this podcast: Mill Street Coffee Porter and Cobblestone Stout. Having sampled the different beer & food combinations on their plate, Mirella, Debbie and Joel each choose their favourite flavour interactions.
A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Ivanhoe Cheese.
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato explores the topic of carbonation with Brewmaster Joel Manning and VP of Sales Dave Mitchell from Mill Street Brewery. After covering the basics of carbonation and how he decides the amount of carbonation that should go into any given beer, Joel details how CO2 affects the aroma and flavour of beer. He outlines the basics of nitrogen-charged beer and the challenges and hilarity that were involved in figuring out how to package the nitrogenated Mill Street beers in cans. Joel and Dave then focus their attention on the two featured beers for this podcast, the Mill Street Cobblestone Stout and Mill Street Coffee Porter addressing how the gasses used in these beers are central to their flavour profile.
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Black Oak Brewing Co. and ale yeast, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM is once again joined by president Ken Woods of Black Oak Brewing Co. Also in the studio is Debbie Levy, representing Maple Dale Cheese.
Debbie talks a bit about Maple Dale Cheese, introducing the three feature cheeses for this podcast, which all happen to be cheddars. Debbie therefore takes some time to outline how the flavours in cheddar evolve as it ages, and how the folk at Maple Dale Cheese prepare a cheddar for aging. As Debbie describes this process, Ken finds parallels between cheesemaking & beer making.
Together, the trio then tries the three cheeses alongside our two feature beers for this podcast: Black Oak Nut Brown and Black Oak Pale Ale. Having sampled the different beer & food combinations on their plate, Mirella, Ken and Debbie each choose their favourite flavour interactions.
A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Maple Dale Cheese.
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato, chats with Ken Woods & Simon Da Costa, the president and brewmaster at Black Oak Brewing Co. Ken updates Mirella on the range of public events that are held at the brewery. The trio then dives into the topic for this podcast: ale yeast.
Simon talks about working with ale yeast and how it’s different from working with lager yeast. He also describes the different character that these two kinds of yeasts add to beer and how a brewmaster’s job involves a lot of yeast wrangling to get the right flavours. He explains how the ale yeast comes through in this month’s two feature beers: Black Oak Pale Ale and Black Oak Nut Brown Ale.
The Black Oak folk then bring out their latest seasonal offering, Double Entendre, to illustrate the range of character that ale yeasts can impart to beer. Ken talks the group through a tasting & insists that, contrary to popular belief, that’s not him on the label!
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Cameron’s Brewing Co. and lager yeast, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM is once again joined by brewer Kyle Smith of Cameron’s Brewing Co. Also in the studio is Debbie Levy, representing the cheeses of Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese. Debbie explains that Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheeses are Swiss inspired but completely different from the stereotypical Emmental style of cheese. She then takes some time to introduce the three cheeses that Gunn’s Hill produces: Oxford Harvest, Five Brothers and Handeck. Kyle then leads the group through a tasting of this month’s two featured lager beers: Cameron’s Lager and Cameron’s Dark 266. Together, the trio tries all of the different beer & food combinations on the table, with each of them choosing their favourite flavour interactions. A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese.
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato, is joined by Kyle Smith, who is the brewer for Cameron’s Brewing Co.
Kyle outlines the many different ales and lagers brewed at Cameron’s and then explains the difference between the two kinds of beer. Kyle then zeroes in on lager yeasts, sharing the challenges of including lagers in a brewery that also produces ales.
Mirella and Kyle then discuss what lager yeast contributes to beer and how its character comes through in this month’s two featured brews: Cameron’s Lager and Cameron’s Dark 266. Kyle outlines the similarities and differences between these two beers, that are both brewed using lager yeasts, and then takes some time to share his favourite beer & food pairings and recipes….
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on the American style ales of Nickel Brook Brewing and American hops, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM chats with brewmaster Ryan Morrow as well as Brad Quaile who is the production manager at Pine River Cheese. Brad talks about this month’s three feature cheeses, two of which he created himself: Monterey Jack Cheese with Salsa, Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onion Flavour and Extra Old Cheddar Cheese. Brad and Ryan then share their respective processes for creating a new recipe. Before diving in and pairing the three Pine River cheeses with Nickel Brook Naughty Neighbour American Pale Ale and Malevolent Imperial Black IPA, Brad takes a little time to explain the different between Monterey Jack and Cheddar… The trio then compare notes on the different pairings. Brad and Ryan then draw another parallel between their respective jobs… A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Pine River Cheese.
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato, chats with brewmaster Ryan Morrow and co-founder Peter Romano, of Burlington’s Nickel Brook Brewery. Together, they explore West-Coast American hops and what these hops contribute to Nickel Brook’s Naughty Neighbour American Pale Ale and Malevolent Imperial Black IPA. Peter and Ryan discuss the popularity of American Style ales. Ryan lists the many different American hop varieties that he uses at the brewery, explaining how he chooses which one to put in any given American style ale. He then details which hops are in this month’s two feature beers, explaining which particular aroma and flavour each of them contributes to these beers. He also describes the hop selection process that brewmasters use to decide which new hop varieties they will use. Mirella then asks Ryan and Peter which is their favourite American hop …
In the second Ontario Brewer Podcast on English hops, featuring Granite Brewery beers, Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM and Mary-Beth Keefe from Granite Brewery are joined by cheese educator Debbie Levy.
Together, the trio of women embark on a beer and cheese exploration, featuring Granite IPA and Peculiar Strong Ale as well as three cheeses from Black River Cheese: 1 Year Aged Cheddar, Maple Cheddar and Dill Mozzarella. Debbie shares the story of Black River Cheese as well as the "barley days" of Prince Edward County. Debbie also explains why there are so many herbed cheeses in Ontario.
Mary Beth talks the women through a tasting of the Granite Peculiar Strong Ale and IPA and the trio then dive into the pairing, discussing their preferred tasting technique and choosing their favourite Black River cheese to go with each of this month’s two feature Granite Brewery beers.
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, BeerologyTM’s Mirella Amato, continues to explore the different kinds of hops that can be used in beer and turns her attention to English hops. Ron Keefe and his daughter Mary-Beth Keefe, from Granite Brewery, join Mirella in the studio having brought along two Granite beers that are brewed with English hops: Peculiar Strong Ale and Granite IPA.
Ron shares the history of Granite brewery and Mary Beth, who is now the head brewer at the Granite, explains how she became involved in the family business. The brewing team then explains how English hops come through in their beer and what constitutes a traditional British style IPA, lingering on traditional dry-hopping techniques. Ron also details the inspiration behind the Peculiar Strong Ale. Ron and Mary-Beth then explain how hops change the character of beer as well as what gives Granite beers a signature flavour.
In the second Ontario Brewer Podcast featuring the beers of King Brewery and Noble Hops, Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM is joined by King Brewery brewer, Matt Tweedy as well as Eric Leveille from Upper Canada Cheese.
Matt has brought in the King Vienna Lager and King Pilsner and talks the group through a detailed beer tasting, lingering on the character that Noble Hops add to beer. Eric shares the story of Upper Canada Cheese, describing the Guernsey Cow milk that they use at Upper Canada, and what it contributes to cheese.
The trio then dives into beer & cheese pairings, with Upper Canada Guernsey Curds, Comfort Cream as well as Guernsey Girl, a grilling cheese made in the tradition of Finnish Bread Cheese. Both Matt and Eric have an idea of the pairings they think will work, and find themselves surprised by the results of the tasting!
With this episode of Ontario Brewer, Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM begins an exploration of the third beer ingredient featured in this podcast season: hops. Mirella is joined by Matt Tweedy and Doug Hyatt from King Brewery, where Noble Hops are used. The pair shares their experience with the two different kinds of Noble hops that are used to brew their King Vienna Lager and King Pilsner. Matt and Doug also explain why these hops are key in brewing authentic European style beers. Matt explains what Noble Hops are and what it’s like to brew with them. He also talks about the current advances that are being made with hops in Germany. The pair then share their perception of the aromas and flavours that Noble hops impart to beer and share some of their favourite food pairings…it might be time for a King & Pizza party!
In the second Ontario Brewer Podcast on the beers of the Lake of Bays Brewing Co., Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM, and Darren Smith from Lake of Bays are joined by beer educator Debbie Levy, representing Thornloe Cheese.
Debbie shares the story of Thornloe Cheese and addresses the fact that Ontario cheesemakers produce a lot of cheddar. Darren then leads a tasting of the two featured beers for this month Sparkhouse Red and Old North Mocha Porter. The trio mix-and-match, sampling these beers alongside the Thornloe 3yr cheddar, Temiskaming and Devil's Rock Creamy Blue cheeses.
Darren concludes the podcast with a very amusing story about grains! A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Thornloe Cheese.
In this first episode of Ontario Brewer for 2012, Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM, is joined by Lake of Bays Brewing Co. owner and president, Darren Smith.
Darren explains how roasted grains are used in this month’s two featured beers: Lake of Bays Sparkhouse Red and Old North Mocha Porter. He also explains when the brewery chooses to use roasted unmalted grains and when they use roasted malted grains and what each of these two roasted grains contributes to beer in terms of flavour and mouthfeel. He also goes into detail about how each of these grains affect the colour of different beers.
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada.
In the second Ontario Brewer Podcast on the beers of the Clocktower Brew Pub, Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM and head brewer Patrick Fiori explore the aromas and flavours in this month’s two featured beers: Winstons Dunkel and Wisharts E.S.B.
Debbie Levy, who is representing St. Albert Cheese Co-operative Inc., joins the Patrick and Mirella for this podcast and has brought in three St. Albert cheeses to sample alongside the two featured beers: Extra Old Cheddar, 4yr Old Cheddar and Onion Cheddar. As the trio mix and match, discovering a range of interesting pairings, Debbie shares some interesting stories on the production and history of cheddar cheese in Ontario. A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: St. Albert Cheese
Co-operative Inc.
In this episode of Ontario Brewer, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM is joined by head brewer Patrick Fiori and brewer Justin da Silva from the Clocktower Brew Pub in Ottawa. Together, the trio explores specialty malts and what they contribute to beer. Patrick and Justin list the various specialty malts that they use at the brewery, paying particular attention to the ones that go into their Wisharts E.S.B. and Winstons Dunkel. The two brewers then describe their favourite specialty malts as well as one “specialty malt” that they could both do without!…
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada
In the second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co., Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM and brewmaster Matthew O’Hara are joined by cheese educator Debbie Levy, who is representing Glengarry Fine Cheese Co. Matthew takes a moment to describe the aromas and flavours in Beau’s Lug Tread Lagered Ale and Vassar Heirloom Ale, the two feature beers for this month. Debbie takes a moment to introduce the Glengarry Fine Cheese young Lankaaster, Fleur-en-Lait and Big Brother cheeses. Matthew, Mirella and Debbie then sample these three cheeses, pairing them with the three featured beers and pick their favourite pairing.
A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Glengarry Fine Cheese.
With this edition of Ontario Brewer, Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM begins a three-part exploration of the various malts in beer. With the assistance of Steve Beauschenes and Matthew O'Hara, from Beau's All Natural Brewing Co., Mirella delves into pale malts and what they contribute to beer as well as the brewing process in general. Matthew and Steve discuss the two types of pale malts that they use at the brewery and then zero in on two Beau's All Natural Brewing Co. beers: Lug Tread Lagered Ale and Vassar Heirloom Ale, both of which feature one of these pale malts. The gang get sidetracked along the way, when Mirella asks the Beau's crew to explain what is meant by a "Lagered Ale"...
In partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Canada
In the second Ontario Brewer Podcast for October, Mirella Amato, of BeerologyTM and Jay Burnett from Grand River Brewing are joined by Adam van Bergeijk from Mountainoak Cheese. Adam shares his experience as a dairy farmer and cheesemaker, and describes the three featured cheeses for the podcast: Mountainoak Cumin, Mountainoak Black Truffle and Mountainoak Wild Nettle. Adam, Jay and Mirella then sample the three featured cheeses alongside the Grand River Hannenberg Pils and Pugnacious Pale Ale and zero in on the best flavour combinations.
A special thanks to our guest for this podcast: Mountainoak Cheese
This podcast marks the launch of the 2012-2013 Ontario Brewer Podcast season. This year will be all about discovering the fresh ingredients that make Ontario Craft Brewer beers taste so good.
In the first podcast this month, we are exploring water with the fine fold at Grand River Brewing. Brewer Rob Creighton and sales rep Jay Burnett chat with Mirella Amato of BeerologyTM about the role that water plays in creating the flavour profile of the Grand River Pugnacious Pale Ale and Grand River Hannenberg Pils.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Wellington Brewery, Mirella chats with Sharon Shoot, who is the owner of Chocolate by Wickerhead. Sharon shares the story behind the name of her chocolate shop. The pair then turn their attention to food pairing, lingering on the fact that texture plays an important role and discussing how some of the food pairing theories don’t always translate into practice. The two featured beers for this podcast are Wellington Boot Chuck IPA and Wellington Imperial Russian Stout. They are paired with two of Sharon’s chocolate treats:
- Artisan Rind
- Ginger Chewy
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chocolate by Wickerhead
Now in its second year in the Beach area of Toronto, Chocolate by Wickerhead retails delectable hand-crafted Belgian chocolate creations and gifts, made on the premise daily using the freshest ingredients. Since Shoot conceived her now famous, signature, hand-dipped Belgian chocolate popcorn in 1988, the name Wickerhead Co. has become synonymous with taste, creativity and craftsmanship. Find out more at: www.wickerhead.com
In the first of two podcasts this month, featuring Wellington brewery, Mirella chats over the phone with brewer Marvin Dyck. Marvin delves into the Wellington Imperial Stout, detailing some of its ingredients and explaining how it's made as well as why it's the most complex beer in the Wellington Brewery portfolio. The pair then chat about Wellington's Boot Chuck IPA, which was released as a seasonal this year. Marvin mentions the annual boot toss event at Wellington brewery, which inspired the name of this IPA. Mirella then inquires about the style of this beer, and learns that this particular IPA is a hybrid. Marvin and Mirella then turn their attention to cask-conditioned ale and how its popularity has fluctuated over the years. Marvin talks about why he likes making cask-conditioned ale and then shares some of his other favourite projects.
In this second Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Railway City Brewing, Mirella and lead brewer Michael Gardner are joined by Chef Howard Dubrovsky. Michael’s brought in two of Railway City Brewing’s beers: Dead Elephant Ale and Honey Elixir. Chef Howard has designed two great dishes to pair with these beers. Recipes for these tasty treats are available on the recipe page of the OCB website. As the trio samples the pairings, they discuss the ingredients in the Railway City brews and how they come through in the flavour as well as how these flavours interact with the food. Chef Howard shares the method he uses to come up with his pairings. He also shares a special technique he uses to infuse dishes with hop aromas.
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Howard Dubrovsky
At the age of 10, able to copy dishes he saw prepared on TV, Howard Dubrovsky was already experimenting with foods and flavours. It was not long before Howard realized that making great food would be his life’s calling.
Howard is a published writer, photographer, kick boxer, food stylist, and world traveler – oh, and an accomplished chef. Howard has all the gastronomic chops you’d expect from a top culinary artist. But, it is this comestible connoisseur’s modernist ethos and edgy, DIY attitude that separates him from the rest of the pack. As likely to kick back with science geeks as to swap recipes with other chefs, Howard is hip, hungry, and on the cutting edge of cuisine.
Howard has appeared on numerous TV programs and was the owner of the highly acclaimed restaurant L.A.B. in Toronto.
In this month’s first Ontario Brewer Podcast on Railway City Brewing, Mirella Amato, of Beerology, chats with the brewery’s co-owner, Paul Corriveaux, as well as lead brewer Michael Gardner. Paul and Michael share some of the history of St. Thomas, the city in which the brewery is situated as well as the crazy stories behind the names of Dead Elephant ale and Double Dead Elephant Ale. Who knew that an elephant could die twice?
Michael shares his journey at the brewery, starting as a delivery driver and keg washer and working his way up to professional brewing. The pair then talk about some of the brewery’s seasonals and how the brewery likes to include local ingredients in their beers as much as possible. They also touch on Railway City’s Dead Elephant Ale and Honey Elixir, the two featured beers for our August podcasts.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Amsterdam Brewery, Mirella and Amsterdam Brewery Brewmaster Jamie Mistry are joined by Chef Matt Kantor, who is the chef behind the Secret Pickle Supper Club, Little Kitchen and Ghost Chef. Jamie leads a tasting of the Amsterdam 416 Urban Wheat and Boneshaker IPA, providing a lot of detail on the ingredients used as well as the laborious process involved in getting hop complexity and bitterness into the Boneshaker IPA. Chef Matt brings in two summer treats: an ice cream made with the 416 Urban Wheat and a beer float made with the Boneshaker IPA. He discusses some of the challenges of making ice cream with beer and Jamie provides some insight into the issue. Taste along as Mirella and Jamie discover these refreshing beer-based desserts. Recipes are available in the recipes section of the OCB Website.
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chef Matt Kantor
Chef Matt Kantor is a graduate of the culinary institute of America in New York and has worked in many well regarded Restaurants. Matt has been pairing food and beer forever and a day, going back to his beer-making and cooking days at College in Albany, New York. Now living in Toronto, Matt is currently the chef behind the Secret Pickle Supper Club, Little Kitchen and Ghost Chef. Find out more at: www.mattkantor.ca
For the Ontario Brewer Podcast on Amsterdam Brewery, Mirella Amato, of Beerology, chats with Brewmaster Jamie Mistry as well as Blake van Delft, who is the Media and Marketing Director at Amsterdam. After sharing a bit about their previous experience, Blake and Jamie discuss the brewery’s latest wins at the Canadian Brewing Awards as well as the World Beer Cup. They then explain how the brewery’s pilot system has allowed the brewing team to brew a wider range of styles and they spend some time describing one of the more obscure traditional styles that Amsterdam has released: a salty Leipziger Gose. Jamie and Blake then turn their focus to the two featured beers for this month’s podcast, the 416 Urban Wheat and Boneshaker IPA. The pair also mentions an upcoming collaboration brew and Jamie shares some of the challenges of brewing so many different brands at the same time. Blake also proposes an unusual food pairing…
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast on Barrie’s Flying Monkey’s Craft Brewery, Mirella and Brewing Alchemist Aaron Spinney discuss The Flying Monkeys Hoptical Illusion and Smashbomb Atomic IPA.
They are then joined by Michael Simpson, of Leslieville Cheese Company, who has brought two cheeses to pair with these Ontario Craft Beers:
- Piave. Lattebusche: Italy
- Ossau-Iraty. Onetik: France
Having tasted through both beers, the trio samples the combinations and discusses how the flavours in the beer mesh with those in the cheeses. Michael and Aaron then discover an interesting coincidence…
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Leslieville Cheese Market. With two stores in Toronto and one in Flesherton, Leslieville Cheese Market endeavours to provide a wide selection of cheeses from across the world and find foods to accompany cheese. The Leslieville Cheese team regularly runs a Beer School for Cheese Fans. Find out more at: www.leslievillecheese.com
For the first Ontario Brewer Podcast about the Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Flying Monkeys Founder, Beer Whisperer & Lion Tamer, Peter Chiodo as well as Brewing Alchemist, Aaron Spinney. The two brewers share how they first got into brewing, and Aaron explains how he went from knowing very little about beer to becoming a professional brewer in a very short time.
Peter then talks about how The Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery was conceived and stresses the importance of brewing what you love. The pair then lingers on the two featured beers for this month’s podcasts: Flying Monkeys Hoptical Illusion and Flying Monkeys Smashbomb Atomic IPA. Peter provides some technical details, while Aaron shares food-pairing ideas.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast on Old Credit Brewery, Mirella and Old Credit assistant brewmaster Ralph Senuto focus on the Old Credit Holiday Honey and Old Credit Amber Ale. Ralph leads a tasting of the two beers, explaining how ingredients and process affect each beer’s flavour and appearance. He also provides some tips on proper serving temperature.
Mirella and Ralph are joined by Chef Howard Dubrovsky, who shares his perspective on the flavours in each beer and how these flavours inspired some surprising pairings. As the group samples through the pairings, Chef Howard shares the recipes for each dish. The first pairing illustrates how contrasting flavours can play off each other and highlight notes in the beer. The second is a complementary pairing in which the beer flavours & texture complements the food, resulting in what Chef Howard describes as a flavour profile that is “larger than the sum of its parts”.
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Howard Dubrovsky
At the age of 10, able to copy dishes he saw prepared on TV, Howard Dubrovsky was already experimenting with foods and flavours. It was not long before Howard realized that making great food would be his life’s calling. Howard is a published writer, photographer, kick boxer, food stylist, and world traveler – oh, and an accomplished chef. Howard has all the gastronomic chops you’d expect from a top culinary artist. But, it is this comestible connoisseur’s modernist ethos and edgy, DIY attitude that separates him from the rest of the pack. As likely to kick back with science geeks as to swap recipes with other chefs, Howard is hip, hungry, and on the cutting edge of cuisine. Howard has appeared on numerous TV programs and was the owner of the highly acclaimed restaurant L.A.B. in Toronto.
For this month’s edition of the Ontario Brewer Podcast, Mirella Amato of Beerology gets the inside scoop on Old Credit Brewery from brewery president Aldo Lista and assistant brewmaster, Ralph Senuto.
The pair discusses the history of the brewery and the unique brewing process introduced by the original Old Credit brewmaster Orrin Besco. Aldo Lista shares the story of the Old Credit logo and the seven-year legal battle that was fought to keep it. Aldo and Ralph then share some info about the Old Credit Amber Ale and Old Credit Holiday Honey, which are the two featured beers this month. Finally, the two discuss which of the three Old Credit brands is their favourite and why.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on the Niagara College Teaching Brewery, Mirella and brewing student Austin Roach are joined by Chef Matt Kantor, who is the chef behind the Secret Pickle Supper Club, Little Kitchen and Ghost Chef. Chef Matt has brought in two dishes that he’s designed to pair with the First Draft Campus Ale and the First Draft Campus Lager. Taste along and discover the flavours of these two OCB beers and how they pair with food! Recipes are available on the recipes section of the OCB Website (link)
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chef Matt Kantor
Chef Matt Kantor is a graduate of the culinary institute of America in New York and has worked in many well regarded Restaurants. Matt has been pairing food and beer forever and a day, going back to his beer-making and cooking days at College in Albany, New York. Now living in Toronto, Matt is currently the chef behind the Secret Pickle Supper Club, Little Kitchen and Ghost Chef. Find out more at: www.mattkantor.ca
In this first Ontario Brewer Podcast about the First Draft brands of the Niagara College Teaching Brewery, Mirella Amato, of Beerology, chats with the General Manager of the Canadian Food and Wine Institute at Niagara College: Steve Gill, as well as one of the students enrolled in the Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program: Austin Roach.
Steve Gill tells the story of how the teaching brewery came about and the idea behind the Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management Program. Austin then shares his perspective on the program and his experience brewing beer so far. He also describes the First Draft Campus Lager and First Draft Campus Ale, which are highlighted in the podcast, as well as some of the other beers that Niagara College students have brewed, providing some detail on how he developed his graduation project beer. The pair then explains the many facets of the collaboration between the Niagara College Teaching Brewery and the Ontario Craft Brewer’s Association.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Mill Street Brewery, Mirella and brewer Andrew Yonick sample the Mill Street Frambozen and Mill Street Coffee Porter along with Sharon Shoot, who is the owner of Chocolate by Wickerhead. Sharon shares proper chocolate tasting technique as well as two chocolates that she’s brought in to pair with the Mill Street brews:
- Dark Truffle with vintage port
- Passionfruit with wildflower honey
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chocolate by Wickerhead.
Now in its second year in the Beach area of Toronto, Chocolate by Wickerhead retails delectable hand-crafted Belgian chocolate creations and gifts, made on the premise daily using the freshest ingredients. Since Shoot conceived her now famous, signature, hand-dipped Belgian chocolate popcorn in 1988, the name Wickerhead Co. has become synonymous with taste, creativity and craftsmanship. Find out more at: www.wickerhead.com
In this first of two Mill Street Brewery Ontario Brewer Podcasts, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Mill Street co-founder Steve Abrams as well as Andrew Yonick, who is the head brewer at the distillery district location, in Toronto. Steve shares the inside scoop on how the idea came about to open Mill Street Brewery and talks about the brewery’s early success introducing beers that stood out from what was available on the market at the time. Andrew tells us about when he joined the brewery and lists his favourite beers among the ones that he brews exclusively for the brewpub. The two Mill Street guys then focus in on the featured beers for this podcast: Mill Street Coffee Porter & Mill Street Frambozen and tell how the origin of one of these two beers can be traced back to the knights templar. They then share some of their favourite food pairings for these beers.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Black Oak Brewing Co, Chef Howard Dubrovsky from Live and Breathe Restaurant, in Toronto, has prepared two appetizers to pair with the Black Oak Pale Ale and the Black Oak Double Chocolate Cherry Stout. He joins Mirella and Black Oak Brewery president Ken Woods for a tasting of these two beers alongside his appetizers. Chef Howard takes some time to explain why beer pairs well with food, and points out traits to look for in beer when pairing it with food. Ken also shares new sexy technique that brewmaster Simon daCosta devised this year, to brew the Double Chocolate Cherry Stout.
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chef Howard Dubrovsky from Live and Breathe Restaurant. Recipes for Chef Howard’s appetizers are available on the Recipes section of the OCB Website.
Located in the heart of Toronto’s Little Italy, Live and Breathe (also known as LAB) provides a unique dining experience, bridging the best of classic Italian cooking techniques and modern molecular gastronomy. Texture and flavours are inventively and playfully manipulated to create a menu unlike anything else on the strip. Find out more at: www.labrestaurant.com/
In this Podcast, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Black Oak Brewing Co. founder and president, Ken Woods as well as brewmaster Simon daCosta. Ken shares the history of the brewery and the struggles involved in starting and running a craft brewery. Simon recounts how a happy co-incidence led him to join the team six years ago. He also describes some of the fun beers he’s brewed at Black Oak in his current role as brewmaster. Ken then shares his thoughts on how the beer industry has changed since he founded Black Oak Brewing Co. in 1999. Ken & Simon also talk about their latest discovery: “a different way to enjoy beer.”
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on King Brewery, Mirella and brewmaster Phil DiFonzo are joined by Michael Simpson, who is the owner of Leslieville Cheese Market. Together, they sample the King Vienna Lager and King Pilsner, pairing them with two cheeses that Michael has brought from his shop:
Abbot’s Gold. Yorkshire Dales Cheese Co.: England
A Dutch Masterpiece – Franz Hals Goat Cheese. FrieslandCampina: Holland
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Leslieville Cheese Market
With two stores in Toronto and one in Flesherton, Leslieville Cheese Market endeavours to provide a wide selection of cheeses from across the world and find foods to accompany cheese. The Leslieville Cheese team regularly runs a Beer School for Cheese Fans. Find out more at: www.leslievillecheese.com
In this first Podcast of the New Year, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Phil DiFonzo, founder and brewmaster at King Brewery. Phil shares his story, talking about his transition from homebrewing to commercial brewing. He addresses the brewery’s decision to focus on European lagers, detailing some of the challenges and uncommon techniques used at the brewery. Phil then discusses the two beers that are the focus of the podcast, King Pilsner and King Vienna Lager, providing a lot of detail on the ingredients in these beers and why they were chosen. Finally, Phil share his favourite food pairings for these two beers.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Grand River Brewing, Mirella and brewer Rob Creighton are joined by Sharon Shoot, who is the owner of Chocolate by Wickerhead. Together, they sample the Grand River Mill Race Mild and Grand River Russian Gun Imperial Stout, pairing them with four chocolates that Sharon has brought from her shop:
Milk Chocolate Nut Cluster
Milk Chocolate Earl Grey
Dark Chocolate Popcorn
Milk Chocolate Pumpkin
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chocolate by Wickerhead
Now in its second year in the Beach area of Toronto, Chocolate by Wickerhead retails delectable hand-crafted Belgian chocolate creations and gifts, made on the premise daily using the freshest ingredients. Since Shoot conceived her now famous, signature, hand-dipped Belgian chocolate popcorn in 1988, the name Wickerhead Co. has become synonymous with taste, creativity and craftsmanship. Find out more at: www.wickerhead.com
In this first Podcast about Grand River Brewing, Mirella Amato of Beerology hears from Grand River Brewing’s owner, Bob Hannenberg, as well as brewer Rob Creighton. Bob describes how he made the decision to open a craft brewery. He shares some of the challenges involved in the process, as well as how Rob became involved with the project. The Grand River folk then discuss some of the history and crazy stories behind the names of their various brands. Bob and Rob introduce the Grand River Russian Gun Imperial Stout and Mill Race Mild, describing why these two beers are ideal for pairing with chocolate. They also share some of their favourite food pairings for their various Grand River Brands.
or part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Great Lakes Brewing Co., Mirella and brewmaster Adrian Popowycz are joined by Chef Matt Kantor, who is the chef behind the Secret Pickle Supper Club, Little Kitchen and Ghost Chef. Together, they sample the Great Lakes Red Leaf Lager and Winter Ale, pairing them with three dishes specially created by chef Kantor for the OCB Podcasts. Recipes are available on the Recipes section of the OCB Website.
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Chef Matt Kantor Chef Matt Kantor is a graduate of the culinary institute of America in New York and has worked in many well regarded Restaurants. Matt has been pairing food and beer forever and a day, going back to his beer-making and cooking days at College in Albany, New York. Now living in Toronto, Matt is currently the chef behind the Secret Pickle Supper Club, Little Kitchen and Ghost Chef. Find out more at: www.mattkantor.ca.
In this first Podcast feature on Great Lakes Brewery, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with brewery co-owner, Peter Bulut Jr, and brewmaster Adrian Popowycz. Peter shares the story of Great Lakes Brewery and how it has evolved since his father purchased the company in 1991. Adrian, who joined Great Lakes this year, talks about his experience taking over brewing duties at a brewery that makes such a wide range of experimental beers. He also describes the cookiest beer he’s brewed at Great Lakes so far …
Peter and Adrian then introduce the two beers that are featured in this month’s podcast: Great Lakes Red Leaf Lager and Winter Ale, telling us which food pairings they enjoy with these beers, in anticipation for the upcoming food pairing podcast with Chef Kantor.
For part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast feature on Nickel Brook Beer, Mirella and brewmaster Ryan Morrow are joined by Michael Simpson, who is the owner of Leslieville Cheese Market. Together, they sample the Nickel Brook Green Apple Pilsner and Headstock Ale, pairing them with two cheeses that Michael has brought from his shop:
Applewood smoked cheddar. Ilchester Cheese Company: Somerset, England
Le Mont-Jacob. Fromagerie Blackburn: Quebec, Canada
A special thanks to our partner for this podcast: Leslieville Cheese Market
With two stores in Toronto and one in Flesherton, Leslieville Cheese Market endeavours to provide a wide selection of cheeses from across the world and find foods to accompany cheese. The Leslieville Cheese team regularly runs a Beer School for Cheese Fans. Find out more at: www.leslievillecheese.com
In this first Podcast of the new season, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Peter Romano and Ryan Morrow from Nickel Brook Beer. Peter and Ryan share the story of Nickel Brook beer and how three home brewers have come together to bring us a great selection of fresh local beers.
Ryan and Peter then introduce the two Nickel Brook brands featured in this month’s podcast: the Apple Pilsner, which was first brewed in Germany and the Headstock IPA: Ryan’s latest creation. They also share some food pairing tips for these two beers in preparation for part two of the podcast …
In part two of the Ontario Brewer Podcast on amber ales, Ryan Demler from Cameron’s Brewing in Oakville and Ralph Senuto from Old Credit Brewing in Port Credit share their tasting notes on the Cameron’s Auburn and the Old Credit Amber Ale. Together with Mirella, the brewers explore the difference in flavour between these two amber ales. They also share their thoughts on the ideal glassware to use for these ales as well as the ideal temperature at which to serve them.
In this Podcast, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Ralph Senuto from Old Credit Brewing and Ryan Demler from Cameron’s Brewing. These brewers tell Mirella about the amber ales that they brew as well as the malts they use to give these ales their characteristic colour and flavour. The brewers then address the current popularity of amber ales in Ontario. Finally, Ralph and Ryan share detailed descriptions of the foods that they like to pair with the Old Credit Amber Ale and the Cameron’s Auburn … including a very surprising combination!
In this Podcast, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Peter Chiodo from Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery and Charles MacLean of MacLean’s Ales. Along with these two brewers, Mirella examines the pale ale style. The brewers explain why they both have a pale ale as their brewery’s flagship brand. They also describe the difference between American and English inspired pale ales, using the MacLean’s Pale Ale and the Flying Monkeys Hoptical Illusion Almost Pale Ale as examples. Peter and Charles then share a few serving suggestions.
In this Podcast, Mirella Amato of Beerology chats with Peter Chiodo from Flying Monkey’s Craft Brewery and Charles MacLean of MacLean’s Ales. Along with these two brewers, Mirella examines the pale ale style. The brewers explain why they both have a pale ale as their brewery’s flagship brand. They also describe the difference between American and English inspired pale ales, using the MacLean’s Pale Ale and the Flying Monkeys Hoptical Illusion Almost Pale Ale as examples. Peter and Charles then share a few serving suggestions.