In the Cowichan Valley, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and agricultural richness, the craft beer scene has flourished, mirroring the area’s commitment to local produce and community engagement. The first brewery in the region opened its doors in 2015, and since then, several others have followed, each bringing its unique flair to the craft beer scene.
The craft beer scene in the Cowichan Valley is a reflection of the area’s dedication to quality, community, and the celebration of local produce. Each visit to a brewery in the valley is not just a tasting experience but a journey into the heart of what makes this region special. It’s where the charm of small-town community meets the sophistication of artisanal brewing, creating a unique experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike.
This guide to Cowichan’s breweries is organized geographically, taking you from the southernmost brewery in Duncan up to Ladysmith in the northern end of the region. This list is not a ranking but a journey through Cowichan’s vibrant beer scene. If you know of a brewery that deserves a mention, feel free to reach out and let me know.
For more information about Cowichan’s breweries and their offerings, you can visit their respective websites or check out local guides like the BC Ale Trail.
Red Arrow Brewing Company
Located in a beautiful sunny brick building that previously housed Arrow Custom Cycle, the walls of Red Arrow’s taproom are still decorated with reminders of its past as a motorcycle shop. (Originally to be named Arrow Brewing, the name was changed to Red Arrow to avoid confusion with Arrowhead Brewing in Invermere) Lance Steward and Chris Gress (co-owner and former head brewer of Craig Street Brewpub, respectively) founded Red Arrow in 2015 out of a desire to open Duncan’s first production brewery. Brews here are typically pretty approachable with the odd surprise here and there. (Lion’s Mane Mushroom Golden Ale anyone?) There’s a healthy mix of ales and lagers with only a modest focus on the super-hoppy IPAs and fruity and sweet sours that many other breweries rely on, and though there’s no kitchen in-house, don’t be too surprised to see a local food truck parked outside in the summer.
Small Block Brewing Co
Small Block Brewing Co., established in 2018 in Duncan, is a unique craft brewery that combines a passion for classic car culture with the art of brewing. The brewery is the brainchild of Cate Scally, who ventured into brewing when her husband, Aaron, a helicopter mechanic with a keen interest in 1950s/60s hot rods, took up homebrewing after an injury. Their brewing hobby quickly turned into a professional pursuit, leading to the establishment of Small Block Brewing Co.
The brewery is known for its handcrafted British Ales, made in small batches with a focus on precision and quality. They pride themselves on sourcing local ingredients to infuse their beers with the finest flavors from BC. The brewery’s cozy atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a taster, a pint, or taking home a growler. The taproom decor reflects Aaron’s fascination with classic cars, adding a unique touch to the overall experience.
Bayview Brewing
Bayview Brewing Company opened in Ladysmith in 2021 and has quickly become a notable destination for craft beer enthusiasts in the Cowichan region. Founders Jonny Ludtke and Alfred Elviss, along with brothers Rod and Geoff Alsop, started Bayview Brewing after achieving success in home brewing competitions. The brewery’s lineup includes classic ales like a blonde, pale ale, Saison, west coast IPA, and hazy IPA. However, Bayview sets itself apart with its focus on crafting unique sour beers, especially dessert sours, a nod to Jonny Ludtke’s extensive 25-year career as a chef.
Bayview Brewing is not only about exceptional beers but also about offering a culinary experience. Their food program features an eclectic and fresh selection of fusion cuisine, with nothing deep-fried on the menu. They have forged partnerships with several local farms to ensure the freshness and locality of their food ingredients. Besides beer, the brewery also provides a variety of other beverages, including local cider, wine, and frequent guest taps from other Vancouver Island breweries.
