There are five craft breweries across Ontario that have decided to pair their brews with a side of winter festivities: 

Parsons Brewing, Prince Edward County

This family-owned brewery lets you skate with the family before grabbing one of their signature ales, the Guv’nor, an ale with notes of toffee, or a Soft Hues lager inspired by long walks on the Sandbanks Outlet Beach at dusk. 

Paris Beer Company, Paris

At the Paris Wincey Mills Co. market, this 100-year-old brewery offers a heated patio with tons of weekend events, like holiday markets with mulled wine, or just stop by for a drink and yummy meal. Try their holiday special, St. Bartholomew Dark Wheatbock (with notes of caramel, oats and hops), and the Nashville fried chicken or P.E.I. mussels.

Muskoka Brewery, Bracebridge

Cottage country is surrounded by a winter wonderland and firepits. A charcuterie board featuring local cured meats, and some warm pretzels pairs well with a can of Winter Beard (a brew with notes of chocolate and cranberry) or the brewery’s classic Cream Ale, the first beer they brewed upon opening in 1996. 

Bench Brewing, Beamsville

This eight-acre brewery in Niagara Benchlands features a winter patio with fireplaces and heaters. The views overlook the Twenty Valley vineyards and orchards. Their Mountainview Stout or Appellation No. 6, a golden ale that’s aged in local wine barrels with notes of orange, lime zest and stone fruit is not to be missed.

Trestle Brewing, Parry Sound

This geodesic dome is ideal for intimate gatherings with friends or a romantic date. Overlooking Parry Sound’s waterfront with a view of the historic CPR Trestle Bridge. Customers can enjoy a Trestle Golden Ale, modeled after European Pilsners with a blend of malts and hops, or An Ocean In Front Of You, A Fire Behind You, a wild ale aged in French Oak barrels that once held Cabernet Sauvignon for a unique fruity taste. Warm up and share a poutine or the Georgian Bay trout board.

SOURCE: Globe and Mail