Steam Whistle has added the first new beer to its portfolio in 19 years.

The brewery has launched a premium Pale Ale to complement its well-established Pilsner, both of which are made according to the exacting standards of the Bavarian Purity Act of 1516

“We have grown to become the No. 1 craft beer in Canada with only one beer,” said Tim McLaughlin, vice-president of marketing for Steam Whistle. “But we have heard loud and clear from our customers that they would like to see more beers from us.”

Following an extensive research project reviewing the Steam Whistle brand, the company found that 92% of Steam Whistle drinkers would try another beer from the brewery.

While Steam Whistle was launched 19 years ago with the mantra of only making one beer, over the past year it has invested considerably in growing the business.

It opened a production facility in Etobicoke last year to complement the work at the historic Steam Whistle Roundhouse in downtown Toronto, and that has enabled it to significantly increase its capacity.

Since then, it has launched a sister brand, Von Bugle, which produces a German-style lager and has forged a partnership to brew one of the leading craft beers in the United States, Fat Tire Belgium Ale, for the Canadian market.

That said, Steam Whistle Pale Ale is the first time it has added a new beer under the Steam Whistle brand.

“In terms of the style of the beer, our pale ale is still easy to drink and crisp, but more hop forward than our pilsner,” said Mr. McLaughlin “We will remain true to our standards of brewing a pure ale with no additives, preservatives or artificial foam enhancers.”