Afleveringen
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In this episode of Why This Beer?, Darren and Azlan sit down with Conrad Gmoser of Brassneck Brewery to explore the blend of creativity, precision, and problem-solving that has made Brassneck one of BC's most respected breweries. Conrad shares his unconventional path from studying architecture to becoming a brewer, and how a process-driven mindset continues to shape the brewery's approach to making beer.
The conversation dives deep into the technical side of brewing, covering yeast selection, fermentation management, co-pitching strategies, and the challenges of dialing in everything from classic Weissbier to hop-forward IPAs. Conrad explains how Brassneck approaches recipe development, quality control, and continuous improvement while maintaining the character that has earned the brewery numerous accolades.
Along the way, they discuss the role of brewing awards, the value of local ingredients such as Myrtle Meadows hops and spruce tips, and some of Brassneck's more experimental projects, including beers made with quince and grape pomace. Whether you're a brewer, a beer enthusiast, or simply curious about the science behind great beer, this episode offers a fascinating look at the decisions and techniques that turn raw ingredients into exceptional pints.
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Step into the world of brewing with industry veteran Nancy More as she reflects on more than 40 years of shaping beer culture, brewing education, and innovation around the globe. From her early beginnings in Canada to influencing breweries and students worldwide, Nancy shares the lessons, challenges, and breakthroughs that defined her remarkable career.
In this conversation, Nancy dives into the fundamentals every brewer should master, the evolving tastes of today’s consumers, and why problem-solving, passion, and quality remain at the heart of great beer. She also explores innovation in brewing, effective beer management, and the future of the industry — offering practical insights for brewers, beer professionals, and curious drinkers alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned brewer, a craft beer enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the business and culture of beer, this episode delivers a thoughtful and inspiring look inside the industry through the eyes of one of its most respected voices.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode of Why This Beer?, hosts Darren Binnema and Azlan Graves sit down with Dave Henry, founder and brewer at Camp Beer Co., to talk about his journey from passionate homebrewer to award-winning brewery owner.
Dave shares how early experiments with Belgian beers sparked his interest in brewing and eventually led to scaling up recipes from the homebrew level to full production. The conversation dives into the technical challenges of maintaining flavour and balance at scale, from dialing back hop and malt intensity to adjusting process variables for consistency.
The group also explores Camp Beer’s approach to building a lineup of standout beers, including the fan-favorite Flannel Pajamas and their take on the increasingly popular Windbreadker Cold IPA. Dave breaks down the evolution of the style, how it differs from traditional IPAs and lagers, and why it resonates with modern drinkers.
Another key topic is competition strategy, as Dave discusses how breweries approach entries in events like the BC Beer Awards, what judges look for, and how feedback from competitions can help refine recipes.
Along the way, the conversation touches on barrel aging, pilot batches, the changing tastes of BC beer drinkers, and Dave’s advice for brewers looking to turn their homebrew passion into a professional career.
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In this episode of Why This Beer?, Azlan and Darren sit down with Donovan Fast, brewmaster at Eighty Eight Brewing in Calgary. Donovan traces his path from small-town Manitoba to the heart of Alberta’s craft beer scene, sharing how early brewing experiences and time spent in Germany helped shape his approach to making balanced, expressive beer.
The conversation dives into the evolution of Eighty Eight Brewing’s lineup, including Hammer Pants, and how the brewery balances creativity with the consistency needed to build trusted core brands. Donovan discusses recipe development, the role of drinkability in modern beer design, and how brewer feedback—both internal and from customers—helps refine the final product.
Donovan also pulls back the curtain on Eighty Eight Brewing’s in-house lab program, explaining how rigorous quality control, stability testing, and clearly defined SOPs help ensure clean, shelf-stable beer. The discussion touches on hop utilization strategies, release planning, and how thoughtful scheduling keeps a brewery’s portfolio fresh while maintaining production discipline.
Along the way, the group explores collaboration in the brewing community, advice for brewers entering the industry, and why curiosity remains one of the most valuable tools a brewer can have. Outside the brewery, Donovan shares his love of cooking and spending time outdoors—interests that continue to influence his creativity behind the brewhouse.
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In this episode, we sit down with Andy Innes of Driftwood Brewery to break down the technical evolution of Fat Tug IPA, one of Canada’s benchmark West Coast IPAs.
Andy walks us through recipe development over time — from hop selection and layering strategies to process adjustments that maintain consistency at scale. We get into fresh hop logistics and chemistry, harvest timing, utilization challenges, and how Driftwood approaches bitterness, aromatics, and balance in a shifting IPA landscape. The conversation also touches on the transition from classic resin-forward profiles to the rise of juicy IPAs, and how Driftwood has navigated those trends without compromising identity.
We discuss quality control, sensory standards, and the discipline required to keep a flagship beer performing year after year. Andy shares insights into innovation within constraints, the realities of brewing in Canada, and what newer brewers should understand about process, precision, and patience.
This episode is a deep dive into hops, systems, and the work behind an enduring IPA.
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In this episode, the hosts sit down with Ben Owens, head brewer at 33 Acres, for a wide-ranging conversation about finding balance — in beer and in life. Ben traces his brewing journey from Australia to Germany, where time spent immersed in traditional lager culture helped shape his philosophy around precision, patience, and restraint.
The discussion dives into how classic brewing techniques can coexist with creativity, from dialing in lager yeast to experimenting with botanicals like lemongrass and basil. Ben shares what goes into building layered, expressive lagers without losing their drinkability, and why ingredient quality — especially malt and hops — is the foundation of great beer.
Along the way, the conversation touches on collaboration with local farms, the cultural impact of places like Bamberg, and the excitement of hop selection and harvest. Ben also reflects on the realities of the BC brewing scene, the importance of community and relationships, and offers thoughtful advice for brewers just finding their footing. It’s a grounded, insightful look at modern lager brewing — and a reminder that the best beers, like the best careers, are built with care, curiosity, and balance.
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What happens when the same beer is brewed on opposite sides of the Atlantic?
In this special follow-up episode of Why This Beer?, Azlan Graves and Darren Binnema are joined once again by Andy Thomas from Hook Norton Brewery in the UK. After first connecting in episode 30, the three brewers set out to brew the exact same red ale recipe — Red Barchetta — using the same malts, hops, and yeast, but on completely different systems, in very different brewing cultures.
Andy brewed the beer on cask at Hook Norton, while Azlan brewed his version at Main Street Brewing in Vancouver. Tasting them side by side, they dive into how process, carbonation, equipment, yeast behavior, and local brewing traditions shape the final beer — even when the recipe stays the same.
The conversation explores cask conditioning, English hop varieties, hop creep, yeast expression, mouthfeel, and the subtle ways place and people influence flavor. It’s a brewer-to-brewer deep dive into what really makes a beer what it is.
Same recipe. Two breweries. One beer — told two different ways.
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Summary
In this episode of 'Why This Beer', hosts Azlan Graves and Darren Binnema engage with Eric Sannerud, a passionate advocate for hops and agriculture. They explore the intricate relationship between beer and agriculture, emphasizing the importance of local ingredients and the stories behind them. Eric shares his journey in the hops industry, the significance of public hops versus proprietary varieties, and the challenges of maintaining hop quality.The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of craft beer and the need for brewers to connect with their ingredients and the stories they tell. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of hop quality, the rise of new hop varieties like Vista, and the importance of aroma in brewing. They discuss the impact of big breweries on hop selection, the current golden age of hops, and the challenges of sustainability in the industry.
The conversation also touches on the marketing of hops and the relationships between brewers and suppliers, culminating in personal reflections on the evolving landscape of beer and hops.
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Summary
In this episode, Azlan and Darren welcome Miguel Molina, co-founder of Changing Colours, to discuss his journey from Ecuador to Canada and the evolution of his craft beer philosophy. Miguel shares how punk music influences his brewing style, the importance of community and collaboration in the craft beer scene, and the innovative techniques he employs to create hop-forward beers. The conversation also touches on branding, the significance of hops, and the future direction of Changing Colours as they continue to explore new flavours and styles in the craft beer market. In this engaging conversation, Miguel, Darren, and Azlan delve into the intricacies of brewing, focusing on the use of Dolcita hops, the importance of pH levels, and the experimentation with New Zealand hops. They discuss the differences between hoppy ales and IPAs, the role of yeast in brewing, and the future of the craft beer scene. Miguel shares insights from his brewing journey, emphasizing the significance of community and collaboration in the industry, while also touching on his personal life and hobbies.
Takeaways
Miguel's journey in craft beer began in Ecuador.
Changing Colours is inspired by punk music and DIY ethos.
The importance of community and collaboration in brewing.
Innovative brewing techniques can enhance flavor and clarity.
Hops play a crucial role in defining craft beer styles.
The transition from Ecuador to Canada shaped Miguel's brewing philosophy.
Branding and aesthetics are key to standing out in the craft beer market.
Education and experience are vital for success in brewing.
Craft beer is about creativity and pushing boundaries.
Future plans for Changing Colours include more innovative beer styles. Dolcita hops offer unique flavors and are becoming popular in brewing.
pH levels play a crucial role in the taste and drinkability of beer.
Experimentation with brewing techniques can lead to innovative beer styles.
New Zealand hops like Motueka and Riwaka provide distinct flavor profiles.
Understanding the difference between hoppy ales and IPAs is essential for brewers.
Yeast selection can significantly impact the aroma and flavor of the beer.
The craft beer scene is evolving, with a focus on quality and community.
Brewers are encouraged to experiment with different ingredients and processes.
The future of craft beer looks promising with new breweries emerging.
Personal passion for brewing can lead to rewarding experiences and connections.Connect with Us:
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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 brewing practices between North America and Australia.
In this conversation, Mike Roberts discusses various aspects of brewing, including the intricacies of whirlpool hopping, managing bitterness, and the importance of heat exchangers.
He shares insights on the science of boiling and evaporation, the evolution of brewing equipment, and the significance of education in brewing mechanics. The discussion also touches on industry trends, the shift towards brewpub models, and exciting new beer styles.
Mike emphasizes the importance of innovation and learning from other industries, while also sharing his personal passions outside of brewing.
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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 recipe development and the exciting prospect of creating a new beer, highlighting the vibrant community of brewers who learn from one another. In this engaging conversation, Andy Thomas shares his experiences with home brewing, the use of English hops, and innovative brewing techniques. The discussion delves into crafting the perfect red ale, the future of beer, and the importance of community engagement in the brewing industry. Andy's passion for beer and music shines through as he reflects on his journey and the excitement of creating unique brews.
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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 brulee barrels. Throughout the conversation, Olivier emphasizes the collaborative nature of brewing and the continuous evolution of the craft beer scene. In this engaging conversation, Olivier Moreau discusses the intricate world of craft beer, focusing on flavor profiles, innovations in wood-aged lagers, and the art of pitch lining. The dialogue explores the future of barrel aging in Canadian brewing, unique finishing barrels, and collaborative projects, highlighting the evolution of the brewing scene in Canada. The speakers share insights on the importance of craftsmanship and the cultural significance of barrel aging, while also touching on personal brewing experiments and the growing trend towards lagers.
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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 conversation also delves into the use of cryo hops, recipe development, and the approach to fresh hop beers, highlighting the innovative techniques and flavors that define Balebreaker's brewing philosophy. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into innovative brewing techniques, the significance of fresh hops, and the current state of the brewing industry. They share insights on the art of brewing with fresh hops, the challenges faced by brewers today, and the importance of quality in craft beer. The discussion also touches on advice for aspiring brewers and the unique experiences that fresh hop beers offer.
Takeaways
Ian Cameron's journey into brewing began with a desire to avoid office work.
Balebreaker Brewing is unique for being located inside a commercial hop farm.
The brewery has evolved significantly since its inception, expanding its offerings.
Fresh hops are a key component of Balebreaker's brewing process.
Ian emphasizes the importance of hop selection and experimentation.
The use of cryo hops has improved efficiency and flavor in their beers.
Balebreaker focuses on showcasing hops rather than overwhelming malt character.
Recipe development often involves finding unique combinations of hops.
The brewery has won awards for its innovative beers, including a Hazy IPA.
Collaboration and experimentation are central to Balebreaker's brewing philosophy. The hop back technique enhances the flavor profile of beers.
Fresh hops provide a unique freshness that is fleeting and should be consumed quickly.
Brewing during harvest season is a busy yet rewarding time for brewers.
Quality control is paramount in brewing; any subpar beer is discarded.
The craft beer industry is currently producing some of the best beers due to the weeding out of less dedicated brewers.
Fresh hop beers should be consumed as soon as possible for the best experience.
Brewers must adapt to market trends to stay relevant in the industry.
The brewing process can be labor-intensive, especially with fresh hops.
Collaboration between breweries can lead to exciting new beers.
Brewing is as much about celebrating the ingredients as it is about the final product.Connect with Us:
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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 competitive landscape between Czech breweries, and the overall impact of the trip on their brewing philosophies. In this episode, the hosts delve into their experiences with Czech beer culture, discussing various aspects of beer tasting, fermentation techniques, and the importance of service in the beer industry. They reflect on their trip to the Czech Republic, sharing insights on traditional brewing methods, the significance of beer history, and how these elements contribute to the overall beer experience. The conversation highlights the differences between Czech and North American beer cultures, emphasizing the need for better consumer education and appreciation for the craft.
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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 the creative process behind using unique ingredients and the evolving landscape of craft beer. In this engaging conversation, Cam McKeigan from Smithers Brewing Company shares insights into the craft beer scene in Smithers, the evolution of Czech beer styles, and the broader Canadian brewing landscape. He emphasizes the importance of community support, collaboration, and the unique challenges and rewards of working in the brewing industry. Cam also offers valuable advice for newcomers looking to break into the craft beer world, highlighting the significance of passion, collaboration, and the learning process involved in brewing.
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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 the craft beer industry. In this engaging conversation, Martin Szot shares his insights on the intricacies of brewing, focusing on water chemistry, pH levels, and innovative ingredients. He discusses the evolution of the Canadian craft beer scene, emphasizing the importance of local community engagement and the need for brewers to adapt to changing consumer preferences. Szot also offers valuable advice for new brewers, highlighting the passion and creativity involved in crafting unique beer styles.
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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 mentorship.
Takeaways
The use of hyper-local malt enhances the beer's character.
Innovative brewing techniques can lead to unique flavor profiles.
Crowdsourcing ingredients fosters community engagement.
International beer culture offers valuable insights for local brewers.
Drinkability is a key focus in successful beer production.
Attention to detail in glassware impacts the overall beer experience.
The Canadian brewing scene is evolving with educated consumers.
Developing a refined palate is crucial for brewers.
Mentorship can provide essential guidance in brewing.
Feedback from trusted sources is vital for improving beer quality.Connect with Us:
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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 challenging times.
The beer featured in this episode is the Tofino Brewing Kelp Stout - a favourite of Brads!
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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 that make it unique. Throughout the discussion, Graham emphasizes the significance of collaboration and innovation in the brewing world, as well as his active involvement in the local brewing community. In this conversation, Graham With discusses the intricacies of brewing, focusing on seasonal releases, innovations in brewing techniques, and the importance of quality control. He shares insights on the evolution of their flagship beer, Filthy Dirty IPA, and emphasizes the significance of community engagement in the craft beer culture. Graham also offers valuable advice for aspiring brewers, highlighting the importance of mentorship and collaboration within the industry.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Brewing Journey
00:48 From Home Brewing to Professional
04:49 The Evolution of Parallel 49 Brewing
09:40 Challenges of Opening a Brewery
17:02 Craft Beer Trends and Innovations
19:20 Exploring the Craft Pilsner
24:18 Exploring Floor Malted Ingredients
31:28 Crafting Accessible Beer for Everyone
34:01 Engagement with the Brewing Community
37:58 Innovative Projects: Advent Calendars and Collaborations
46:25 The Brewing Process and Challenges
49:38 Upgrading the Brew House
53:47 Quality Control in Brewing
58:04 Evolution of the Filthy Dirty IPA
01:07:03 Hops and Ingredients in Brewing
01:10:22 Navigating Beer Production Challenges
01:12:06 Consistency vs. Innovation in Brewing
01:14:10 The Role of Alcohol in Beer Flavor
01:15:18 Reviving Classic Beers from the Past
01:15:19 Creating a Welcoming Taproom Atmosphere
01:22:49 The Future of Canadian Craft Brewing
01:25:38 Advice for Aspiring BrewersConnect with Us:
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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. The episode highlights the intersection of tradition and innovation in the craft beer scene, offering insights into brewing techniques and the rich history of Kveik yeast. In this conversation, Brad Tomlinson discusses various aspects of brewing, including the importance of yeast behavior, particularly DMS and kveik yeast cultures. He shares insights on hop innovations and the creation of unique beer styles, emphasizing the significance of collaboration in brewing. The discussion also touches on the evolving craft beer culture in Canada and offers advice for aspiring brewers, highlighting the need for creativity and community engagement in the industry.
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