Micro brew-ha-ha part 2
By Mark Suits Sat, Sep 4 2010 COMMENTS(4) On Tap

Now that Edmonton beer-lovers are all riled up over the Liquor Depot vs. Big Rock dispute, let's take a look at how easy or hard it is to pick up or sip Edmonton-brewed beer right here in Edmonton.

My experience has been that it's not always easy to find an Edmonton-brewed beer in Edmonton. If you are eating at a restaurant it is almost impossible to sip one of the many fine beers brewed in Edmonton or other craft beers. Compared to other cities I have recently visited the situation in Edmonton is quite shameful.

In San Fransisco for example everywhere we went that sold beer had iconic local brew Anchor Steam available. This included restaurants, pubs and the ritzy Top of the Mark. We just got back from southern California and sipping a local brew no problem. At the Los Angeles Angels baseball game many local and craft brews were on tap and this is the land of Bud Light. Rexall Place, more probably the Oilers, could take a page out of their book and offer hockey fans a chance to sample the local brews. Surely out of all the many beer taps at Rexall there could be a few for the locals. The same could be said for Edmonton cultural venue's as well. Recently at the Winspear, I had an intermission bev and was able to sip a craft brew, but it was from B.C. There were no Edmonton beers.

As I said this situation is shameful. Edmonton endeavours that want and receive local support should do the same and support Edmonton brewers.

Beer lovers can also support their local breweries by drinking local, the beer is fresher and it has a smaller carbon footprint because it hasn't been shipped across the country or from further away.

If your local watering hole, restaurant or beer store doesn't have the Edmonton brand you're looking for, ask them to stock it.

Soon I will be putting together and Edmonton Beer Map with locations the offer Edmonton beers. Stay tuned and in the meantime drink local.

Cheers