Port Alberni is becoming known for our great taste in beer, specifically locally brewed, served and canned right here in the Alberni Valley. Our first brewery to hit the map in our community was Twin City Brewing, which opened in 2017. Two years later in 2019, Dog Mountain Brewing followed, and most recently in 2021, Alberni Brewing opened their doors.
Let’s start our tour in North Port, where Alberni Brewing sits just off the main street of Johnson Road, on Adelaide Street. Alberni Brewing was founded by Heather and Jason Welsh in partnership with Yvan St. Onge. All 3 play a lead role in the day-to-day production, with Jason being the head brewer, Yvan the chef and Heather managing the front end. Alberni Brewing not only has a great home-tap list, but also features options for ciders, wine, and their famous pickled vodka caesars. With two outdoor patios and a large inside seating area, Alberni serves a wide range of tasty dishes of appetizers, burgers, salads and everything in between! Alberni Brewing gives off a true, modern-day pub atmosphere!
Just down the road, a short 10 minute walk, we arrive at Twin City Brewing – Port Alberni’s first taste of local beer. Nestled amongst a mixture of local businesses, Twin City has been a go-to after work location for many in the area and beyond. Founder Aaron Colyn started out as a homebrewer who wanted to turn his hobby into a profession – and wow are we sure happy he did. Twin City is not only known for their delicious beer line up, but also their tasty homemade pizza and in-house-smoked meat sandwiches. Twin City has earned a few different awards for their beers, including Best in Show at the 2018 BC Beer Awards for its Late Bloomer strawberry-hibiscus sour. They were also recognized by BC Ale Trail Awards for Best Brewery Experience.
Moving on down Gertrude Street, and taking a slight turn onto Third Avenue, we arrive in Uptown at our final destination, Dog Mountain Brewing. Newest to the crew of breweries, Dog Mountain has really found their niche in unique tasting beers, and delicious food menu of sandwiches, bowls and vegan options. Founders Robin and Andy had a vision for their location, and it has not disappointed! Dog Mountain has one of the most beautiful patio views in all the Alberni Valley. Overlooking the harbour, patrons can have a sunset view while enjoying a flight of in-house brewed, ever changing beers on their heated patio that can hold up to 100 people!
That wraps up our tour of beer in the Alberni Valley, we encourage everyone to check out the uniqueness of each Brewery’s atmospheres and menus this spring and summer season!
