Okay, we come from East Van – home of numerous outstanding craft breweries. So we feel reasonably credentialed to pass judgement on a Northern brewing operation. If you read the post about 100 Mile, you’re aware that the first Cariboo brewery we came across was less than impressive (crappy in fact). So with some reservation (but not too much, come on it’s beer) we made our way through the mean streets of Quesnel to the Barkerville Brewing Company. This is the only brewery in town and incidentally, the historic town of Barkerville is actually 81 km away (stay tuned for an upcoming post).
Upon entry, the young barmaid ‘Jacintha’ (now that’s a cool Northern name) advised that their establishment was dog-friendly. First test passed, particularly since it was 29c outside.
After the Bear trotted in from the heat, Jacintha explained that they had 9 beers on tap. Wow. Nice variety – this already had Broken ‘N Rode beat by 5. We opted for 2 flights (4 ounce glasses) allowing us to sample 8 varieties (flights were a reasonable $5.75). The tasting room was spacious and well-appointed and despite being completely empty (just like Broke ’N Rode), people were coming and going to get their growlers refilled (unlike Broke ’N Rode).
All the beers have a gold rush theme and would be difficult and lengthy to fully rate. Suffice to say they were all very drinkable. Our favourites were 18 Karat Ale, Mucho Oro Lager and Wandering Camel IPA (yes, they used camels during the Cariboo gold rush).
So if you’re a beer drinker and you’re in the Cariboo, make sure to enjoy a libation at the Barkerville Brewing Company (in Quesnel). Don’t go to that other place…
Bear's Groove 