Just Here for the Beer
Nanaimo isn’t just about wild outdoor adventures, drool-worthy eats, and vintage gems, it’s also got a craft beverage scene worth toasting to! Just ask the podcasting duo from Just Here for the Beer, who rolled into town to sip, sample, and soak up what makes our breweries a must-visit for any beer lover.
Streaming on Vancouver’s Sportsnet 650, Just Here for the Beer made a pit stop in Nanaimo to chat with the brewmasters behind White Sails Brewing, Wolf Brewing Company, and Longwood Brewery. From hoppy IPAs to rich, local lagers, they got a front-row seat to the passion and creativity brewing in our city. The visit wrapped up with a live podcast recording, where our local legends spilled the secrets behind their best pours, one sip at a time.
Exploring Nanaimo’s Craft Beverage Scene
From hop-forward brews to smooth spirits, crisp ciders, and locally crafted wines, Nanaimo knows how to keep your glass full and your taste buds on their toes. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, cocktail connoisseur, or just here for a good time, there’s something for every flavour explorer.
Ready to sip your way through the city? Start with a flight at one of our favourite breweries, shake things up with a handcrafted cocktail at a local distillery, swirl and sip at a cozy winery, and top it off with a refreshing cider from the city’s newest cidery. It’s the perfect self-guided tasting tour, fun, flavourful, and totally Insta-worthy.
So, who’s thirsty? Keep reading to plan your perfect craft beverage day in Nanaimo.
Nanaimo’s Craft Breweries
White Sails Brewing
Located in the heart of Nanaimo, White Sails Brewing is a must-visit for craft beer lovers looking to sip, savour and soak up the local scene. With a spacious, welcoming taproom and a rotating lineup of expertly crafted brews, White Sails is all about quality, community and a deep love for the craft. Whether you’re craving a crisp and refreshing or something strong and bold, every pint here is brewed with care and inspired by the beauty of Vancouver Island. Plus, with cozy vibes, friendly staff and a prime location just steps from the waterfront, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy a taste of Nanaimo.
Wolf Brewing Company
If you’re on the hunt for bold, award-winning brews with a side of old-school craftsmanship, Wolf Brewing Company is calling your name. This Nanaimo staple has mastered the craft of small-batch, European-inspired beers, and their dedication to quality shines in every sip. From rich and malty to smooth and easy-drinking, Wolf Brewing blends tradition with innovation to create beers that keep you coming back for more. Their cozy, industrial-style taproom is the perfect place to settle in, sip on a flight and get a true taste of Nanaimo’s craft beer scene. Ready to unleash your inner beer lover?
Longwood Brewery
If you’re looking for a brewery that truly embodies Nanaimo’s spirit, Longwood Brewery is the spot. Known for their commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, their lineup of brews is as diverse as it is delicious. From the smooth, full-bodied IPAs to the rich perfection of their stouts. They even craft beers using locally grown barley and hops, making every sip a true taste of Vancouver Island! Whether you’re a hophead, a dark beer devotee, or just enjoy a fresh pint, Longwood Brewery is a must-visit. Cheers to drinking local!
Longwood Brewpub & Restaurant
For craft beer with a side of mouthwatering eats, Longwood Brewpub & Restaurant is the place to be. Nestled on a hillside overlooking Nanaimo, this iconic spot serves up small-batch brews alongside a menu packed with locally sourced, West Coast-inspired dishes. Whether you’re sipping on a crisp lager or diving into a plate of their famous Longwood poutine, every bite and sip is crafted with care. Plus, with cozy vibes and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to kick back after a day of adventuring. Who’s ready for a pint?
More of Nanaimo’s Craft Beverage Stops
Big Bang Cider
Big, bold, and bursting with flavour, Big Bang Cider is shaking up Nanaimo’s craft beverage scene in the best way possible. This newly established cidery is all about crafting naturally fermented, small-batch ciders that showcase the best of Vancouver Island’s apples. Whether you’re into a crisp, dry sip or something a little more adventurous, their lineup is refreshingly different. Swing by their tasting room, grab a flight and get ready to experience cider with a twist. Who’s up for a taste test?
Arbutus Distillery
Arbutus Distillery is where craft meets creativity, and every bottle tells a story. This Nanaimo-based distillery is serving up small-batch spirits with big personalities. Think botanical-forward gins, smooth-as-silk vodka, and uniquely crafted liqueurs. Using locally sourced ingredients and a whole lot of expertise, Arbutus is redefining what it means to sip local. Stop by their tasting room, try a flight, and discover your new favourite pour. Cheers to that!
Millstone Estate Winery
Millstone Estate Winery is where old-world charm meets West Coast flair. Nestled along the Millstone River, this boutique, family-run winery crafts small-batch, organic wines that truly capture the essence of Vancouver Island. From crisp whites to bold reds, every sip reflects their commitment to sustainable farming and hands-on winemaking. Stop by the vineyard, soak in the serene surroundings, and raise a glass to Nanaimo’s hidden wine gem.
While you’re in Town, try the BC Ale Trail!
Did you know Nanaimo is part of the BC Ale Trail? Yup, we’re one stop on a self-guided ale-venture that pairs craft breweries with BC’s most stunning landscapes. Explore local breweries, restaurants, tap houses, and more, all while supporting our craft beer community.
Think you’ve tasted it all? Think again. Nanaimo’s craft beverage scene is waiting to blow your taste buds away. From bold beers to daring cocktails, there’s something for every flavor explorer. Ready to plan your next vacation? Your taste buds (and your Insta feed) will thank you!
