Most tourists only know Port Alberni as the town that they drive through on the way to Tofino. A handful of passionate locals and spirited entrepreneurs are working hard to change that image however, and the small city is slowly becoming known as a worthwhile West Coast destination in its own right. Challenges to this growth as a tourism destination include the stranglehold that logging companies have on the forested land surrounding the city, preventing the local tourism center from promoting some of the most popular hikes in the area. There’s a lot to do within the city itself too though, and from local cafes to artisans to breweries and distilleries, the focus on local ingredients and experiences is admirable. With a newly opened distillery joining the the city’s three well-known breweries, there’s a lot to explore when it comes to locally produced beer, gin, and vodka. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through on your way to Tofino, consider taking some time to discover the flavours of Port Alberni for yourself.
As always, this list of Port Alberni’s breweries and distillery isn’t ranked in any particular order. If you think I’ve missed something, feel free to leave a comment below!
Antidote Distilling Company
Antidote Distilling Company describes their products as a “postcard for the Alberni Valley”, and while they may be thinking local, they’re already achieving recognition internationally. This Port Alberni distillery has aleady received multiple awards including at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition, and their products can already be found in liquor stores across Vancouver Island. Bottles are made of 100% recycled glass, and the distillery takes back empty bottles and exchanges them for discounted full ones, cleaning and reusing the old bottles. Furthering their commitment to sustainability, they also recycle and reuse water for cleaning. They currently have two award winning gins – a London dry and a black gin made with locally foraged black truffles, morel, shiitake and chanterelle mushrooms to give it a distinct dark colour and earthy flavour. The addition of sustainably foraged salal berries gives it a sweetness, and causes it to turn a sultry violet when tonic is added. Their two gins as well as a limited edition black truffle vodka can be sipped neat or enjoyed in a variety of delicious cocktails in their newly opened tasting lounge, where their tasty drinks are accompanied by local-inspired dishes. Make sure to make a reservation in advance, as otherwise you’re unlikely to get in.
Dog Mountain Brewing
After years of experience homebrewing, owners Andy and Robin moved to Port Alberni from Edmonton specifically to start Dog Mountain Brewing. In addition to being known for their unique takes on all kinds of beer styles and their delicious food, it’s the huge dog-friendly rooftop patio that is often highlighted as making it one of the best places in Port Alberni to drink a beer and enjoy the view. They’re always changing up their beers on tap so expect to be surprised by what you find! Some of their most popular beers include The Bees! Belgian blonde ale brewed with caramelized honey, Lit Wit wheat bear, and the always refreshing Long Lost Lager. The focus here is definitely on the beer, but the understated food menu is surprisingly good and pairs perfectly with the beer. Plus, if you’d like to take some beer home, it’s easy to mix and match single cans from their fridge into a four-pack, making it easier to choose.
Twin City Brewing
When Twin City brewing first opened its doors in 2017 at the end of a crowdfunding campaign, it was Port Alberni’s one and only brewery. Since then the local beer scene has only grown, but more competition hasn’t hurt this growing brewery. With an extensive lineup of beers as well as delicious piping hot pizza with some of the best crust I’ve tried, Twin City brewing has earned a reputation as one of the best places to eat and drink in Port Alberni. This Port Alberni brewery has won countless awards for it’s beers, as well as its food and tasting room, and most recently being recognized as Brewery of the Year at the BC beer Awards. Local favourites the that remain on tap year round include the Tickity Boo British Pale Ale, Swedish Gymnast Single-Hopped Blonde Ale, Run of the Mill West Coast IPA, and the Porter Alberni Dry Porter, and the rest of their taps are filled by a surprising mix of beer styles that are sure to satisfy even the most difficult-to-please craft beer drinkers.
Alberni Brewing Co
Alberni Brewing Co was founded in 2020 by Yvan St. Onge and Heather and Jason Welsh, and despite being Port Albernis’ newest brewery, it’s clear from visiting the bustling location that the beer (and food!) is popular among locals and visitors alike. The relaxed and unpretentious setting feels like any small-town bar, with the added bonus that they brew their own beer! With 15 different beers on tap including rotating beers and local favourites, there’s a lot to choose from. The focus here is on IPAs, but expect a range of approachable beer styles that can be enjoyed inside the lounge by the fireplace, or on the outdoor dog-friendly patio. This brewery has the most seating of any of Port Alberni’s breweries, so might be the best for larger groups. The bar feels like it has something for everyone, but all the large TVs do distract a little from the rest of the experience.
