Great Craft Breweries In VG’s Backyard

We love supporting local businesses, and for good reason – they contribute to our community and economy, they’re awesome and hey…we own one ourselves, too! With a family farm in Simcoe as well as stores in both Norfolk County and Hamilton, Ontario, VG meets a lot of producers. We love our jams, jellies, hot sauces and local produce, but there’s one thing we don’t sell (but love just as much): a nice, cold beer from a local area brewery.

If you love beer as much as we do, it’s time to grab some of your favourite VG Meat products, prepare them with loving care and enjoy with a nice, crisp local brew. Here are our top picks for craft breweries in VG’s own backyard (Hamilton and Simcoe area).

Collective Arts

This Hamilton favourite is known for putting local art on their statement-making cans…but also for making great beer. Collective Arts has an expansive offering of award-winning beers including ales, IPAs, a porter and a dry-hopped sour (great with a Hot Italian VG sausage). Come for the beer, stay for the on-site entertainment. https://collectiveartsbrewing.com/

Nickelbrook Brewing Co.

Located in Burlington, Nickelbrook is a small but mighty brewery with a great selection of beers. Check out the Head Stock IPA or the delicious Cause and Effect blonde ale. There are plenty of consistent options plus a variety of seasonal favourites. Pineapple, peach, lime or raspberry-infused beers? They’ve got ‘em. www.Nickelbrook.com

Merit Brewing Company

Merit is a brewery, a restaurant and a bottle shop all in one place. The beer is fantastic and you can get a brewery tour to see where all of the magic happens. It’s worth bringing your growler or buying one on site! Pair your favourite beer with our pulled pork. Cheers. https://www.meritbrewing.ca

Grain and Grit

This new brewery has a bright, casual but charming tap room with a nice selection of beers on tap. They’re family-run (just like VG) and they strive to make a “unique and balanced” brew. Check out their merch shop and feel free to bring the kids or the dog – Grain and Grit welcomes both! Enjoy a brew with one of our Ribeye Steaks. https://www.grainandgritbeer.com

Shawn and Ed

When you see a Lagershed sign, do you think of Shawn and Ed? SH-awn, ED…it all makes sense now. Founded by friends, Shawn and Ed Brewing Co makes a beer “for adventurous mouths” and has a great shop in Dundas. Try one with your favourite VG sausages. http://lagershed.com/

West Avenue Cider House

Ok, so this isn’t exactly beer…but it’s craft-brewed and it’s delicious. West Avenue Cider House sits on a spectacular farm property and features a lovely country shop as well as a rustic tasting room. Grab some bottles to take home, and say hi to the chickens while you’re there! http://westavenue.ca