Brewing Tradition: Indigenous Breweries Blend Culture and Craftsmanship

The relationship between Indigenous Peoples and alcohol has been complex and often traumatic. Alcohol was used as a tool for colonialization, oppression and genocide. The Indian Act’s assimilation policies intended to take away Indigenous Peoples’ culture, traditions and autonomy, which included prohibiting the sale of alcohol, a policy that was not rescinded until 1985. Today, Indigenous breweries are telling a new story – a story of culture, traditions, and history proudly expressed through unique and inspiring beer. Explore some of the Indigenous-owned craft breweries across the country that are changing the narrative.

From humble beginnings, Nonsuch Brewing Co. started with a dream of owning a winery. It has since turned into a taproom anchored in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, the Exchange District, creating special moments, memories and award-winning beers. Located on Treaty One Territory, the Traditional Territory of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene Peoples and the homeland of the Métis Nation, Nonsuch Brewing proudly shares their cultural heritage and stories with guests through their beer. For a taste of rich and dark delicacy, try the crowd-pleasing, award-winning Old Ale X beer.

As the first Indigenous-owned microbrewery located on First Nations territory in Canada, Kahnawake Brewing Company served its first pint on Saint Patrick’s Day in 2018 with a mission to change the beer landscape in their community. Focusing on quality, creativity, authenticity, and community, Kahnawake Brewing gives a nod to Mohawk ironworkers through its branding and its logo. Ironworker tools are used as the taps in the bar and a Black Bridge sign is displayed proudly in the brewery as a tribute to people who risked their lives every day going to work. The first beer they started brewing when they opened is suitably called Kahnawake Bridge. Brewed with Canadian-grown malts and German hops, this ale has subtle hints of pear and melon while its long maturation at near-freezing temperatures makes it crisp, refreshing, and crushable – try it today!

The small but mighty Secret Cove Brewing is located on the beautiful West Coast of Newfoundland serving locally owned and award-winning craft beer. From sourcing local ingredients to embracing eco-conscious practices, their commitment to sustainability is evident. At Secret Cove Brewing, a passion for craft brewing and coastal living collide, making legendary beer along the way. Savour the coastal spirit, and try their flagship James Blonde 00709. This beer won a gold medal at the 2023 Canadian Brewing Awards and as the name implies, tips its hat to the local area code and the soon to be famous agent, James Blonde. 

As a family-owned brewery and distillery in Abbotsford, British Columbia, Paul and Jocelyn Seeting have been blending tradition and experimentation at Ravens Brewing Company since 2015. Committed to using the finest ingredients sourced locally in British Columbia wherever possible and ensuring their products are at the highest quality standards, Ravens Brewing has consistently won awards due to its high beer-making standards. With a strong desire to work with local businesses, Ravens Brewing Company focuses on quality, consistency and community. Give their Sumas Mountain Lager a try, which beautifully showcases 100% Canadian Malt and Sterling Hops.