Summer in Alberta is synonymous with sunshine, patios, and sipping on crisp craft beers. If your to-do list doesn’t include a visit to this brew house, it’s time for a rewrite. From its humble beginnings to award-winning brews, Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. has become a cornerstone of Calgary’s craft beer scene. Discover the story behind the name, their commitment to community, and why their beers are a must-try this summer.
Founded in Calgary’s Inglewood neighbourhood, Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. quickly became more than just a place to grab a pint. It evolved into a community hub, known for its inclusive atmosphere and events that celebrated local culture. From hosting drag performances to participating in city-wide beer festivals, the brewery has consistently prioritized community engagement.
Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. isn’t just a catchy name; it’s a philosophy. The brewery embraces an appreciation for traditional ways of doing things and a reverence for the beauty in imperfection. It symbolizes a commitment to crafting beers that honour time-tested techniques while embracing the artistry of modern brewing. This philosophy is evident in every pint they pour, offering a nostalgic nod to the past with a contemporary twist.
In June 2024, a devastating fire destroyed the original Inglewood taproom. The loss was felt deeply, not just by the brewery but by the entire community. However, the brewery's spirit remained unbroken and in true Calgary spirit, the community rallied. They continued brewing at their industrial facility and opened The Sound Room, a cozy new bar located at 1213 1st Street SW, beneath the Calcutta Cricket Club. This new space offers a curated selection of their finest brews, ensuring that fans can still enjoy their favourite beers while the original taproom is rebuilt.
Ol’ Beautiful’s commitment to quality hasn’t gone unnoticed. Their beers have garnered accolades at the Alberta Beer Awards:
Okami Kasu: Gold in the "Other Flavoured Beer" category. Okami Kasu is a Japanese-inspired ale from Ol' Beautiful Brewing Co., crafted with rice and Sake Kasu to create a smooth texture and a nuanced, boozy finish.
Fingers Crossed NEIPA: Gold in the New England Hazy category. This hazy New England IPA from Ol' Beautiful Brewing Co. delivers a smooth, easygoing sip packed with tropical character. Brewed with Citra and Azacca hops, it leans into bright notes of mango and pineapple while keeping the bitterness low, making it approachable for both hop lovers and newcomers.
Eternal Twilight: Gold in the Amber and Dark Lager category. Ol' Beautiful Brewing Company's Eternal Twilight Dark Lager offers a smooth and crisp experience, featuring notes of dark chocolate and toasted caramel, complemented by a roasty aroma.
Ol’ Beautiful offers an experience that’s both heartwarming and palate-pleasing. Their diverse range of beers caters to all tastes, and their commitment to the community ensures that every visit is more than just a drink - it’s a celebration of Calgary’s vibrant culture. Beyond their exceptional beer, Ol’ Beautiful stands as a beacon of resilience and community engagement. Their journey from devastation to revival is inspiring, and their welcoming spaces make every visit a memorable one.
This summer, make sure to stop by The Sound Room and let ‘Ol Beautiful Brewing Co be one of the many highlights of your Alberta adventures, a place where every sip tells a story.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
