- Victoria
- Eat & Drink
- Breweries, Distilleries & Cideries
Greater Victoria Breweries, Distilleries & Cideries
Since Spinnakers served their first brews in the mid-1980s, Victoria breweries have been at the forefront of the craft beer industry. Over the years, the number of Victoria breweries, distilleries and cideries has exploded - each with their own creative spin on what was once a relatively generic drink.
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If you grew up in the 60s, 70s or 80s the idea of independent breweries, distilleries, wineries or cideries was pretty far-fetched. We were led to believe that only big companies made anything remotely drinkable – after all we all had friends who were either fermenting grapes or experimenting with barley and yeast at home. And unfortunately most of it was nasty!
I will say this though - times have changed and home-made concoctions have vastly improved over the past few decades.
Bottom line though, it wasn't too many years ago that our selection for beer seemed limited to either Labatt’s Blue or Molson Canadian.
Sure, the odd person maybe drank Red Label or a “premium” beer like Sleemans but we didn't even realize how few choices we had.
We were naive beer drinkers!
Fast forward a few years and we now have independent brewers selling their products in the coolers and on the shelves beside the “big guys”. And they are bravely going wherever their taste buds take them (and taking a good chunk of profits with them!).
According to Statistica, as of 2023, Anheuser-Busch controls approximately 33.8% of the Canadian beer market, while Molson Coors holds about 28.7%. The remaining 37.5% is accounted for by "other" breweries.
That “other” category is comprised of all the small breweries and microbreweries who are shifting the balance. Once big brand loyal consumers are now jumping ship and lining up to enjoy distinctive, flavourful beers - with some very unique names - made locally in their own communities.
Here on Vancouver Island, we have an excellent variety of delightful, locally produced alcoholic beverages with many of those businesses offering tasting rooms and tours, and some available at local farmers markets. For our purposes, we highlight the Victoria breweries, cideries and distilleries that are located in the region from Sidney to Sooke.
Greater Victoria Breweries, Distilleries & Cideries
4 Mile Brewing Company
4 Mile Brewing Company in Victoria, BC, is an historic establishment offering a delightful array of craft beers, brewed on-site using the Peter Austin brick kettle brewing system.
Set in a charming heritage building located at 199 Island Highway in View Royal, the brewery provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a diverse selection of brews, including unique seasonal offerings and classic favourites. The venue also features a pub serving delicious food that pairs perfectly with their beers. With its rich history and dedication to quality, 4 Mile Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Bad Dog Brewing Company
Bad Dog Brewing Company, located at 7861 Tugwell Road in Sooke, is a lively spot known for its inventive and flavourful craft beers. The brewery boasts a welcoming atmosphere with rustic charm, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a drink. Their diverse beer menu includes everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, catering to various tastes. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the overall positive experience. Bad Dog Brewing Company is a fantastic destination for quality brews and good times. Tours and samples are available during open hours,
Category 12 Brewing
Category 12 Brewing, located at 2200 Keating Cross Road on the Saanich Peninsuala, is a science-themed brewery that excels in crafting Northwest and Belgian-inspired ales. Known for its innovative approach, Category 12 experiments with various ingredients and techniques to produce unique and flavourful beers. Notable creations include Disruption Black IPA, Insubordinate Session IPA and Zombie Repellent Ale 2. Visitors can enjoy tours and tastings, making it a perfect destination for beer enthusiasts looking to explore Victoria breweries.
Driftwood Brewery
Driftwood Brewery, located at 836 Viewfield Road in Esquimalt, is a craft brewery celebrated for its high-quality and innovative beers. The brewery prides itself on using the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods to create distinct and memorable flavours. A pioneer of the West Coast IPA style in BC, its famous Fat Tug IPA is one of the most awarded beers in Canada. With a welcoming tasting room and a strong commitment to the craft beer community, Driftwood Brewery is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast wanting to experience Victoria breweries.
Hoyne Brewing Company
Hoyne Brewing Company, located at 2740 Bridge Street in Victoria, BC, is a standout among Victoria breweries in the local craft beer scene. Founded by seasoned brewer Sean Hoyne, this brewery is known for its meticulously crafted and flavourful beers. Popular offerings include Dark Matter, a rich and complex ale, and the citrusy and refreshing Hoyne Pilsner. With a strong commitment to quality and community, Hoyne Brewing Company offers a welcoming atmosphere in their tasting room, making it a must-visit destination for beer lovers exploring Victoria.
Ile Sauvage Brewing Co.
Ile Sauvage Brewing Co. is a brewery known for its Belgian-style wild ales and sour beers using various yeasts and bacteria to create complex and tart flavours. Their range of beers includes notables such as Framboise Noir Raspberry Dark Sour, Tropique Passionfruit Guava Sour and Assemblage Wild Saison. Located at 2960 Bridge Street in Victoria, Ile Sauvage Brewing Co. offers an experience that is enjoyable and memorable.
Island Shiners Distillery
Island Shiners Distillery is a standout destination for those who appreciate artisanal spirits. Situated in scenic Sooke on Vancouver Island, the distillery is celebrated for its handcrafted, small-batch spirits, including a range of meticulously crafted gins and liqueurs. The use of locally sourced organic ingredients with no added perservatives, and traditional fermentation and distillation methods, ensures a distinctive tasting experience. With its welcoming ambiance and focus on quality, Island Shiners Distillery provides a memorable visit for spirit enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, making it a must-visit spot for exploring refined and innovative beverages.
Lighthouse Brewing Company
Lighthouse Brewing Company is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. Brewing locally for more than 25 years, they are renowned for consistent quality and a diverse range of beers. From the crisp and refreshing Race Rocks Amber Ale, to the hoppy and citrusy Switchback IPA to the rich and malty Keepers Stout, each brew is crafted with care and a dedication to flavour. Located at 836 Devonshire Road in Esquimalt, Lighthouse Brewing Company stands out as a gem in the Victoria breweries scene.
Macaloney's Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery
Macaloney's Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery is a delightful destination for those who appreciate both fine spirits and craft beer. Located in an industrial area of Saanich, this unique establishment offers a diverse range of high-quality products. Their distillery is known for producing exceptional Scotch style single malt whiskies with distinct character. The Twa Dogs Brewery section features unfiltered beer that combines sessionable Scottish brews with West coast craft beer. The combination of expertly made spirits and beers, along with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, makes this venue a standout choice for visitors seeking a memorable tasting experience. Guided tours are available.
Merridale Cidery & Distillery
Merridale Cidery & Distillery is a hidden gem for enthusiasts of cider and spirits. Nestled in a scenic location in Cobble Hill, this establishment is celebrated for its expertly crafted ciders and small-batch craft spirits, fermented and distilled on site. Their range includes everything from crisp, refreshing ciders made from locally sourced apples to finely crafted spirits with a smooth finish. The rustic charm of the cidery, combined with its commitment to quality and sustainability, creates a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Whether you're a cider aficionado or just looking to explore local flavours, Merridale Cidery & Distillery is a must-visit destination.
Moon Under Water Brewery & Pub
Moon Under Water Brewery & Pub is a vibrant and inviting spot for craft beer enthusiasts and pub-goers alike. Located at 350 Bay Street in Victoria, this family-owned brewery features German style brands with a North American flare. Moon Under Water brews both traditional and modern styles such as Tranquility IPA, Creepy Uncle Dunkel and This Is Hefeweizen with barrel-aged sour beer now available. The pub atmosphere is warm and friendly, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a pint with friends. With a menu featuring hearty pub fare and a rotating selection of seasonal brews, Moon Under Water Brewery & Pub delivers a consistently enjoyable experience. It’s a great choice for both casual visits and special occasions.
Phillips Brewing & Malting Company
Phillips Brewing & Malting Company is a cornerstone of the craft beer scene, renowned for its creative and bold brews. Located on Government Street, just outside of the downtown core, Phillips Brewing is one of the oldest and largest Victoria breweries. They are known for innovative and diverse beers, such as Blue Buck Ale, Electric Unicorn White IPA and Solaris Peach Ale. The brewery is expanding into a soda company, a distillery and a malting facility and offers a family-friendly tasting room overlooking the packaging hall. With a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, it's a great place to explore new brews and enjoy a relaxed pint. Phillips Brewing & Malting Company is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience top-notch craft beer with a distinctive flair.
Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse
Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse is a charming destination for cider enthusiasts. Set in a beautiful location on the Saanich Peninsula, this ciderhouse is known for its exceptional, handcrafted ciders made from locally grown apples. Their diverse range includes everything from crisp and refreshing to complex and aromatic varieties. The serene farm setting and warm, inviting atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for enjoying their high-quality ciders.
Whether you’re a seasoned cider drinker or new to the scene, Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse offers a delightful and memorable tasting experience. The farm is also a popular site for weddings and events. Tours and tastings are available.
Sheringham Distillery
Sheringham Distillery is for those who appreciate expertly crafted spirits. Located at 4382 West Shore Parkway in Langford, this distillery is renowned for its small-batch gins and other spirits, which are crafted with a meticulous attention to detail and a focus on quality. Their distinctive flavours, made with 100% BC agricultural products, make for an exceptional tasting experience. The distillery's welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff enhance the visit, making it a great spot for spirit enthusiasts looking to explore unique and refined offerings. Sheringham Distillery offers a sophisticated yet accessible experience that’s sure to impress. Tours and tastings are available.
Sooke Brewing Company
Sooke Brewing Company is a fantastic spot for craft beer lovers seeking quality and variety. Nestled in the scenic town of Sooke, this brewery offers a diverse selection of well-crafted beers, from refreshing pale ales to rich, robust stouts. The laid-back, welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal place to enjoy a pint with friends or unwind after a day of exploring the area. With a focus on local ingredients and a commitment to brewing excellence, Sooke Brewing Company provides a consistently enjoyable experience that captures the essence of its coastal surroundings. Brewery tours available.
Sooke Oceanside Brewery
Sooke Oceanside Brewery offers a refreshing take on craft beer with its focus on quality and local flavours. Located in a stunning coastal setting, this brewery is known for its well-crafted beers, including crisp lagers and flavourful ales. The brewery's relaxed and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for enjoying a drink while taking in the scenic views.
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Guesthouses
Since 1984, Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub has been a top-tier destination for both craft beer and fine dining. Located in a picturesque ocean-front setting, this brewpub - the oldest one in Canada - is renowned for its diverse range of house-brewed beers, including innovative ales and classic styles such as Lion's Head Cascadia Dark Ale, Mitchell's Extra Special Bitter and Ortega Blonde Ale. The gastro pub concept shines through with a menu that pairs perfectly with their brews, offering delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal or a special night out.
Raspberries and beer? Find out why local craft beer enthusiast Emma Thomson puts this on the top of her must try list at Spinnakers.
Swans Brewery, Pub & Hotel
Swans Brewery, Pub & Hotel is an historic landmark in downtown Victoria that houses a brewery, a pub, a hotel and an art gallery. The brewery is known for its well-crafted British-style ales and German and Canadian beers, all brewed with a commitment to quality and inspired the local history and culture. The adjacent pub offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy hearty pub fare that complements their brews and the historic hotel provides charming accommodations.
Vancouver Island Brewing
Vancouver Island Brewing is a celebrated brewery that stands out for its commitment to crafting high-quality, flavourful beers. In operation since 1984, they are one of the original craft breweries in BC. Located on Government Street just outside downtown Victoria, they offer a diverse lineup of brews, from the classic Islander Lager, to the seasonal Hermannator Ice Bock to the new Pod Pack mixed pack. The brewery’s dedication to using local ingredients and traditional brewing methods ensures a distinctive and enjoyable experience in every pint. The welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a great spot for beer enthusiasts to explore new flavours and enjoy a relaxed visit. Vancouver Island Brewing continues to be a cornerstone of the island’s craft beer scene. Tasting room and tours available.
Victoria Distillers
Victoria Distillers is a premier destination for those seeking high-quality, handcrafted spirits. Located in the scenic town of Sidney on the Saanich Peninsula, this distillery is renowned for its exceptional gins and other spirits, which are meticulously crafted with locally sourced ingredients in copper pot stills. The distillery’s commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle, offering a refined and memorable tasting experience. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on quality, Victoria Distillers provides a perfect setting for spirit enthusiasts to explore and enjoy distinctive, artisanal creations.
Whistle Buoy Brewing
Whistle Buoy Brewing is a tiny brewery making small-batch, experimental beers made with ingredients from the Pacific Northwest. Located in the vibrant LoJo area of downtown Victoria (lower courtyard at Market Square), the brewery is known for its creative and flavourful brews that reflect the community and culture of Victoria, such as Market Saison, Strawberry Rhubarb Sour and Cosmic Wave Double IPA. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere of Whistle Buoy Brewing makes it a great spot to enjoy a pint and socialize.
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