Alberta’s craft beer industry has grown significantly in recent years, with over 130 breweries contributing approximately $903.5 million to Alberta’s economy in 2025. However, per capita beer consumption has declined by 10.6% from 2023 to 2024, reflecting broader shifts in consumer preferences.

In response to these changes, the Alberta government introduced a fairer beer markup structure in the 2025 budget. This policy aims to support smaller-scale craft brewers by improving equity in the system, helping them navigate the evolving market landscape.

These five breweries exemplify the spirit of Alberta’s craft beer community: innovative, community-focused, and always striving to offer something unique.  Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast, a casual traveler or someone just looking for a great spot to relax after betting on World Cup matches with friend Alberta’s craft breweries offer a delightful mix of local flavors and welcoming atmospheres.

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The Establishment Brewing Company (Calgary)

For award-winning innovation and Calgary craft pride.
Located in Calgary, The Establishment Brewing Company has earned multiple Alberta Beer Awards, including Brasserie of the Year in 2024. Their focus on quality and creativity shines through in every batch.

Why visit:
Their beer selection is diverse — from low-alcohol brews to mixed-fermentation ales and classic styles with a twist. Perfect for anyone wanting to experience Alberta’s top-tier craft scene.

Tip: Try one of their award-winning mixed-fermentation or low-alcohol beers for a taste you won’t find elsewhere.

Cabin Brewing Company (Calgary)

For the rustic cabin vibes and small-batch innovation.
Nestled in Calgary’s Manchester brewing district, Cabin Brewing Company invites you to “feel the warmth, enjoy the welcome and embrace your new home away from home.”

What to check out:

• A cozy tap-room and sunny patio make it especially inviting for a relaxed afternoon.
  
• They brew bold, flavourful beers — for example, their Simple Pleasures English Mild has been noted for its rich malt notes and approachable style.
  
• Food pairing: Their menu includes fun items like meat pies and pretzel-wrapped dogs — making it a good option for non-beer enthusiasts too.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the patio is in full light. Bring a friend who’s less into hops — the food and ambiance make it easy for everyone to enjoy.

Blindman Brewing (Lacombe)

For award-winning beers and prairie roots.
Located in Lacombe, Alberta — in the heart of Canada’s barley country — Blindman Brewing has built a reputation for quality and innovation.

Why it stands out:

• They’re described as “multiple-award winning” and use high-quality local ingredients.
  
• Their beer list includes adventurous options — from kettle sours to IPAs — which makes it a great stop for craft beer explorers.
  
• The taproom is well-rated and community-focused.

Tip: Pick a flight so you can sample a range of styles — from light and sessionable to bold and experimental.

Troubled Monk Brewery (Red Deer)

For farm-to-glass brewing and Alberta pride.
Centrally located in Red Deer, Troubled Monk Brewery is locally owned and operated with an impressive range of craft beers and even craft sodas.

Why visit:

• Their beer list is broad — from pilsners to rye IPAs, and everything in between.
  
• Good stop if you’re doing an Alberta road-trip — Red Deer is mid-province and the brewery is well-worth the detour.

Tip: Try one of their less common styles (e.g., rye IPA or saisons) to stretch beyond your usual beer zone.

Annex Ales (Calgary)

For bold flavors and innovative seltzers alongside classic ales.
Centrally located in Calgary, Annex Ales is known for both its experimental seltzers and traditional beer offerings, winning gold for its Amber Ale at the 2024 Alberta Beer Awards.

Why visit:
Their lineup spans from fruity seltzers to robust ales, giving visitors a mix of the unexpected and the classic. A must-stop for craft enthusiasts exploring Calgary’s vibrant beer scene.

Tip: Don’t miss their Amber Ale or try a seltzer alongside it for a refreshing twist on Alberta brewing.

Pierre-Olivier Bussières : Editor-in-Chief of Le Temps d’une Bière and producer of Hoppy History. For the past two years, Pierre has been writing on the history of alcohol from antiquity to modern times, with a special focus on the role of craft breweries in North America.