Pints & Plates
PINTS & PLATES: Spindrift Killick Session Buffalo Chicken Dip
Posted by Stephen Barrett on
With two locations, one at 271 Main Street, Antigonish, NS, and the other at 21 Frazee Avenue, Dartmouth, NS, the Spindrift Brewing Company is the first drinking establishment to have a rooftop patio in the university town of Antigonish, from which the whole downtown core can be seen. Spindrift Oak Manor took over the beloved building from said longtime clothing store, but they were able to keep the feel of the space by maintaining as much of the original decor and architecture as was functionally possible. Both Dartmouth and Antigonish carry their full range of beers with the exception of occasional variations on tap. They continue to push the boundaries of what craft beer can be as they recently released a hemp IPA that’s taste and aroma is very close to what one would expect from a hemp based product.
PINTS & PLATES: Annapolis Brewing Company Sugar Chocolate Truffles
Posted by Stephen Barrett on
Located at 302 St George Street, Annapolis Royal, NS, the Annapolis Brewing Company is situated in the heart of this venerable town; their branding and beer highlight the region that they represent, adding to the rich historic fabric of Annapolis Royal itself. The taproom is large, with space that includes retail, an outdoor patio, and lots of room to sit in and enjoy a fresh pint. The beers available range from porters and vanilla stouts to IPAs and ambers, so there is something for everyone's taste. The Annapolis Brewing Company is located in a beautiful part of the province and worth discovering in person. Our pick is the King George Porter as it is rich, smoky, nutty, and chocolaty. It’s the perfect companion to a hot fire and a cool evening.
PINTS & PLATES: Sea Level Rojo Mojo Chicken Lasagna
Posted by Stephen Barrett on
Located at 980 Terrys Creek Road, Port Williams, NS, Sea Level Brewing is in the heart of the beautiful Annapolis Valley and sits riverside in the same building as the Port Pub. In operation since 2007, Sea Level has since expanded production and now use 90% of their own farm grown malting barley and hops in their beer products, making them Nova Scotia’s first farm to table brewery. They were also the first craft brewery in the Valley and helped pave the way for others to follow. Sea Level has since opened the Millstone Harvest Brewhouse at 9146 HWY 221, Sheffield Mills, NS. You can get growlers and their standard lineup in cans in addition to seasonal specialities. Our pick is their Rojo Mojo Red Ale as it is an English style ale with lots of luscious malt.
PINTS & PLATES: Hill Top Hops Red Ale Scotch Bonnet Hot Sauce
Posted by Stephen Barrett on
Located at 7232 Highway 14, Brooklyn, NS, Hill Top Hops Brewhouse is a true example of a brewmaster who is connected to his craft. John Peters personally built his brewing equipment with the pipefitter skills he acquired in a previous life. This brewery is a family business and everyone is involved. They make a range of great beers, and their tap room is an inviting space just off the beaten path. They have a range of six well crafted beers that are always available, but they also brew seasonal beers and two ciders. Our pick is the Tidal Bore Blonde as it is approachable, drinkable, and a great example of style.
PINTS & PLATES: Meander River Smoky Chipotle Porter Jerked Chicken
Posted by Stephen Barrett on
Located at 906 Woodville Road, Newport, NS, Meander River Farm and Brewery is set on a picturesque 186 acre farm that grows lavender, often has pigs and livestock, grows some hops, and produces a range of products including cider, soaps, and essential oils. This truly is a farmhouse style microbrewery where everyone helps out in all aspects of the farm. Meander River also produces a range of flavourful and well thought out beers, from approachable honey browns and ales, to Belgian farmhouse ales and smoky chipotle porters. It is such a lovely place to visit with the whole family. Our pick is their Barn Swallow Belgian Farmhouse Ale because it is a true representation of time and place.