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Table of Contents
Introduction
Big Rock Brewery is a Canadian brewery that was founded in 1985 in Calgary, Alberta. The brewery has gained popularity for its wide range of beer offerings, including traditional ales, lagers, and seasonal brews. However, the question remains: Is Big Rock a craft beer?
The History of Big Rock Brewery
Big Rock Brewery is a Canadian brewery that has been around since 1985. It was founded by Ed McNally, who was a lawyer and businessman. McNally had a passion for beer and wanted to create a brewery that would produce high-quality, handcrafted beer. He started the brewery in Calgary, Alberta, and named it after a large rock that was located near his home.
The early years of Big Rock Brewery were challenging. McNally had to overcome many obstacles, including a lack of funding and a lack of experience in the brewing industry. However, he persevered and eventually found success. In 1986, Big Rock Brewery won its first award for its Traditional Ale, which was named the Best Beer in Canada at the Canadian Brewing Awards.
Over the years, Big Rock Brewery has continued to grow and expand. It has opened several brewpubs and restaurants across Canada, and its beer is now available in many provinces. The brewery has also expanded its product line to include a wide range of beers, including lagers, ales, stouts, and porters.
Despite its success, there has been some debate over whether Big Rock Brewery is a craft beer. The term “craft beer” is often used to describe beer that is produced by small, independent breweries using traditional brewing methods. Some people argue that Big Rock Brewery is too big to be considered a craft brewery, while others argue that its commitment to quality and tradition make it a craft brewery.
One of the reasons why some people question whether Big Rock Brewery is a craft brewery is its size. The brewery produces over 100,000 hectoliters of beer each year, which is significantly more than many other craft breweries. However, the size of a brewery does not necessarily determine whether it is a craft brewery. The Brewers Association, a trade group that represents craft breweries in the United States, defines a craft brewery as one that produces less than 6 million barrels of beer per year and is independently owned.
Another reason why some people question whether Big Rock Brewery is a craft brewery is its ownership. In 2015, the brewery was acquired by a multinational corporation called Anheuser-Busch InBev. Some people argue that a brewery that is owned by a large corporation cannot be considered a craft brewery. However, the Brewers Association defines a craft brewery as one that is “small, independent, and traditional,” and does not mention ownership as a factor.
Despite these debates, many people still consider Big Rock Brewery to be a craft brewery. The brewery has a strong commitment to quality and tradition, and its beer is still brewed using traditional methods. The brewery also supports local communities and uses locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
In conclusion, the history of Big Rock Brewery is one of perseverance and success. Despite facing many challenges in its early years, the brewery has grown to become one of the largest and most successful breweries in Canada. While there is some debate over whether Big Rock Brewery is a craft brewery, its commitment to quality and tradition make it a beloved brewery among beer enthusiasts. Whether you consider it a craft brewery or not, there is no denying that Big Rock Brewery has made a significant contribution to the Canadian beer industry.
What Defines a Craft Beer? A Look at Big Rock’s Brewing Process
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many beer enthusiasts seeking out unique and flavorful brews. However, with the rise of larger breweries producing their own “craft” beers, the definition of what constitutes a craft beer has become somewhat murky. One brewery that has been at the center of this debate is Big Rock Brewery, a Canadian brewery that has been producing beer since 1985. In this article, we will take a closer look at Big Rock’s brewing process and explore whether or not their beer can truly be considered a craft beer.
To understand what defines a craft beer, it is important to first look at the history of the craft beer movement. Craft beer is often associated with small, independent breweries that prioritize quality and flavor over mass production and profit. These breweries typically use traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients to create unique and flavorful beers. However, as the popularity of craft beer has grown, larger breweries have begun to produce their own “craft” beers, leading to a debate over what truly constitutes a craft beer.
One of the key factors in determining whether a beer is a craft beer is the brewing process. Craft breweries typically use traditional brewing methods, such as brewing in small batches and using high-quality ingredients. Big Rock Brewery, on the other hand, uses a more industrial brewing process, with large-scale production and automated brewing equipment. While this does not necessarily mean that their beer is not a craft beer, it does raise questions about whether their brewing process aligns with the traditional methods associated with craft beer.
Another factor to consider when determining whether a beer is a craft beer is the level of creativity and innovation involved in the brewing process. Craft breweries are known for experimenting with unique ingredients and flavors, often creating beers that are unlike anything else on the market. Big Rock Brewery, while certainly producing a wide variety of beers, does not necessarily prioritize innovation in the same way that many craft breweries do. Instead, they focus on producing consistent, high-quality beers that appeal to a wide range of consumers.
Despite these factors, there are certainly arguments to be made for why Big Rock Brewery’s beer could be considered a craft beer. For one, they do use high-quality ingredients and prioritize quality in their brewing process. Additionally, they have a long history of producing unique and flavorful beers, such as their popular Traditional Ale and Grasshopper Wheat Ale. While their brewing process may not align with the traditional methods associated with craft beer, they have certainly made a name for themselves in the industry and have a loyal following of beer enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the question of whether Big Rock Brewery’s beer can truly be considered a craft beer is a complex one. While they do not necessarily align with the traditional methods and values associated with craft beer, they have certainly made a name for themselves in the industry and produce high-quality, flavorful beers. Ultimately, whether or not their beer is considered a craft beer may come down to personal opinion and interpretation of what defines a craft beer. Regardless, Big Rock Brewery remains a popular and respected brewery in the Canadian beer industry, and their beers are certainly worth trying for any beer enthusiast.
Tasting Notes: A Review of Big Rock’s Most Popular Beers
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many beer enthusiasts seeking out unique and flavorful brews. One brewery that has been around for over three decades and has gained a loyal following is Big Rock Brewery. However, some beer aficionados question whether Big Rock can truly be considered a craft brewery. In this article, we will explore this question by reviewing some of Big Rock’s most popular beers.
First up is the Traditional Ale, which is Big Rock’s flagship beer. This English-style ale has a deep amber color and a malty aroma with hints of caramel and toffee. On the palate, it is smooth and well-balanced, with a slightly sweet finish. While it may not be the most adventurous beer, it is a solid choice for those who enjoy a classic, easy-drinking ale.
Next, we have the Grasshopper Wheat Ale, which is a lighter, more refreshing option. This beer has a hazy golden color and a citrusy aroma with notes of lemon and orange. On the palate, it is crisp and effervescent, with a subtle sweetness and a clean finish. While it may not be the most complex beer, it is a great choice for a hot summer day.
Moving on to the darker side of things, we have the Warthog Ale. This brown ale has a rich, nutty aroma with hints of chocolate and coffee. On the palate, it is full-bodied and flavorful, with a slightly bitter finish. While it may not be the most innovative beer, it is a great choice for those who enjoy a hearty, satisfying brew.
Finally, we have the Citradelic Single Hop IPA, which is Big Rock’s take on the popular IPA style. This beer has a bright, citrusy aroma with notes of grapefruit and orange. On the palate, it is hoppy and bitter, with a dry finish. While it may not be the most balanced beer, it is a great choice for those who enjoy a bold, hop-forward brew.
So, is Big Rock a craft brewery? The answer to this question is somewhat subjective, as there is no clear definition of what constitutes a craft brewery. However, there are a few factors that are often used to determine whether a brewery is craft or not. These include things like the size of the brewery, the ownership structure, and the level of innovation in the beers produced.
Big Rock is certainly not a small brewery, as it produces over 100,000 hectoliters of beer per year. Additionally, it is owned by a larger company, which some beer enthusiasts argue disqualifies it from being considered a craft brewery. However, Big Rock does have a history of innovation, as evidenced by its use of unique ingredients like spruce tips and maple syrup in some of its beers.
Ultimately, whether or not you consider Big Rock to be a craft brewery may depend on your personal definition of the term. However, there is no denying that the brewery produces some solid, enjoyable beers that are worth trying. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a beer, consider giving one of Big Rock’s offerings a try.
Big Rock’s Impact on the Canadian Craft Beer Industry
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in Canada over the past few years, with many breweries popping up across the country. One of the most well-known breweries in Canada is Big Rock Brewery, which was founded in 1985 in Calgary, Alberta. However, there has been some debate over whether or not Big Rock can be considered a craft brewery. In this article, we will explore the history of Big Rock and its impact on the Canadian craft beer industry to determine whether or not it can be classified as a craft brewery.
Big Rock Brewery was founded by Ed McNally, a lawyer and businessman who had a passion for beer. McNally wanted to create a brewery that would produce high-quality, handcrafted beer using traditional brewing methods. He named the brewery after a large rock formation near his home in Okotoks, Alberta, and began brewing beer in small batches using only the finest ingredients.
Over the years, Big Rock has grown significantly and now produces a wide range of beers, including lagers, ales, stouts, and porters. The brewery has also expanded its operations to include a distillery and a restaurant, and its products are now sold across Canada and in select international markets.
Despite its success, there has been some debate over whether or not Big Rock can be considered a craft brewery. The definition of a craft brewery is somewhat subjective, but generally, it refers to a small, independent brewery that produces beer using traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients. Craft breweries are often characterized by their unique and innovative beer styles, as well as their commitment to sustainability and community involvement.
Big Rock certainly meets some of these criteria. The brewery was founded by an individual with a passion for beer, and it initially produced beer in small batches using traditional brewing methods. Additionally, Big Rock has been known for its innovative beer styles, such as its popular Grasshopper Wheat Ale and its award-winning Traditional Ale.
However, some argue that Big Rock’s size and ownership structure disqualify it from being considered a craft brewery. In 2015, Big Rock was acquired by the multinational brewing company Anheuser-Busch InBev, which also owns brands such as Budweiser and Stella Artois. This acquisition led some to question whether or not Big Rock could still be considered an independent brewery.
Despite these concerns, many in the Canadian craft beer industry still view Big Rock as a craft brewery. The brewery has remained committed to producing high-quality, handcrafted beer using traditional brewing methods, and it has continued to innovate and experiment with new beer styles. Additionally, Big Rock has been involved in the Canadian craft beer community for over 30 years and has played a significant role in the industry’s growth and development.
In conclusion, the question of whether or not Big Rock is a craft brewery is somewhat subjective and depends on one’s definition of the term. While the brewery’s size and ownership structure may disqualify it from being considered an independent brewery, many in the Canadian craft beer industry still view Big Rock as a craft brewery due to its commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted beer using traditional brewing methods. Regardless of how one chooses to classify Big Rock, there is no denying the brewery’s impact on the Canadian craft beer industry and its role in shaping the industry’s future.
The Future of Big Rock: Expansion and Innovation Plans
Big Rock Brewery has been a staple in the Canadian beer industry since its inception in 1985. Over the years, the brewery has undergone several changes, including a merger with a multinational corporation and a shift in focus towards more mainstream beers. However, in recent years, Big Rock has made a concerted effort to return to its roots as a craft brewery. This has led to some confusion among consumers as to whether or not Big Rock can still be considered a craft beer.
The definition of a craft beer is somewhat nebulous, but generally, it refers to a beer that is produced by a small, independent brewery using traditional brewing methods and high-quality ingredients. By this definition, Big Rock would not be considered a craft brewery, as it is no longer small or independent. However, the brewery has made a commitment to producing high-quality, innovative beers that appeal to craft beer enthusiasts.
One of the ways that Big Rock has demonstrated its commitment to innovation is through its Barrel-Aged Series. This series features beers that have been aged in barrels that previously held whiskey, wine, or other spirits. The result is a complex, flavorful beer that is unlike anything else on the market. These beers are produced in limited quantities and are only available for a short time, which adds to their appeal among craft beer enthusiasts.
Another way that Big Rock has demonstrated its commitment to innovation is through its collaboration with other breweries. In 2019, Big Rock partnered with Vancouver’s Parallel 49 Brewing Company to produce a beer called “The Big Pucker.” This beer was a sour ale that was brewed with passionfruit and guava. The collaboration was a success, and the beer was well-received by consumers.
Big Rock has also made a commitment to sustainability. The brewery has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including using renewable energy sources and reducing water usage. These initiatives are important to many craft beer enthusiasts, who are often environmentally conscious.
Despite these efforts, some consumers still view Big Rock as a mainstream brewery rather than a craft brewery. This perception may be due in part to the brewery’s history and its association with multinational corporations. However, Big Rock’s commitment to innovation and sustainability should not be overlooked.
Looking to the future, Big Rock has plans for expansion and continued innovation. The brewery recently opened a new location in Vancouver, which will serve as a hub for innovation and experimentation. The Vancouver location will feature a small-batch brewery and a taproom where consumers can try new and experimental beers.
In addition to the Vancouver location, Big Rock has plans to expand its distribution across Canada. The brewery has already made inroads in Ontario and Quebec, and it plans to continue expanding into new markets. This expansion will allow more consumers to try Big Rock’s innovative beers and may help to change the perception of the brewery as a mainstream producer.
In conclusion, while Big Rock may not fit the strict definition of a craft brewery, it is clear that the brewery is committed to producing high-quality, innovative beers that appeal to craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s Barrel-Aged Series, collaborations with other breweries, and commitment to sustainability are all evidence of this commitment. As Big Rock continues to expand and innovate, it will be interesting to see how consumers perceive the brewery and whether or not it is able to shed its mainstream image.
Q&A
1. Is Big Rock a craft beer?
No, Big Rock is not considered a craft beer.
2. What is Big Rock then?
Big Rock is a Canadian brewery that produces a variety of beers, including traditional and contemporary styles.
3. Why is Big Rock not considered a craft beer?
Big Rock is not considered a craft beer because it is owned by a larger corporation, which does not meet the criteria for a craft brewery.
4. What is the criteria for a craft brewery?
The criteria for a craft brewery vary, but generally include being independently owned and producing a limited amount of beer annually.
5. Does Big Rock produce high-quality beer?
Many people enjoy Big Rock’s beer and consider it to be of high quality, but this is subjective and varies from person to person.
Conclusion
Conclusion: Big Rock is not considered a craft beer by the Brewers Association, as it does not meet their definition of a craft brewery. However, it is still a popular and well-respected brewery in Canada.