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Discovering Abbotsford: A Beer Lover's Guide to Local Hikes and Old Yale’s Craft Beer Pairings

Discovering Abbotsford: A Beer Lover's Guide to Local Hikes and Old Yale’s Craft Beer Pairings

Abbotsford, British Columbia, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting an array of scenic hikes and breathtaking landscapes. As you explore the picturesque trails of Abbotsford, why not enhance your experience with the craft beers of Old Yale Brewing? Join us on a journey through Abbotsford's great outdoors as we pair local hikes with Old Yale Brewing's finest brews, promising a refreshing and memorable adventure for nature lovers and beer connoisseurs alike.

  1. Sumas Mountain & West Coast IPA: Rising above Abbotsford, Sumas Mountain offers a network of trails for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you're tackling the challenging summit trail or opting for a leisurely stroll through the forested slopes, the panoramic views from the top are worth the effort. Before embarking on your hike, fuel up with Old Yale Brewing's West Coast IPA. With its bold hop profile and citrusy aroma, this IPA is the perfect companion for a day spent exploring Sumas Mountain's rugged terrain.

  2. Discovery Trail & Off Trail Pale Ale: For a scenic walk or bike ride through Abbotsford's urban and natural landscapes, look no further than the Discovery Trail. Stretching from the city center to the Sumas Mountain foothills, this multi-use trail offers stunning views of the surrounding farmland, forests, and mountains. As you meander along the trail, enjoy the crisp and refreshing Off Trail Pale Ale from Old Yale Brewing. With its balanced bitterness and hints of citrus, it's the perfect brew to savour amidst the tranquillity of the Discovery Trail.

  3. Chadsey Lake Trail & Knotty Blonde Ale: Nestled in the foothills of Mount Cheam, Chadsey Lake is a hidden oasis waiting to be discovered. The scenic trail winds through lush forests and meadows, culminating in the pristine waters of Chadsey Lake—a perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing dip on a hot day. After your hike, unwind with Old Yale Brewing's Knotty Blonde Ale. Light and easy-drinking, with subtle notes of citrus and honey, it's the ideal brew to enjoy lakeside as you soak in the natural beauty of Chadsey Lake.

Abbotsford's outdoor wonders are best experienced with a cold craft beer in hand, and Old Yale Brewing offers the perfect brews to complement every adventure. Whether you're conquering mountain peaks, exploring scenic trails, or relaxing by a tranquil lake, let the flavours of Old Yale Brewing's craft beer enhance your journey through Abbotsford's great outdoors. Cheers to unforgettable hikes and unforgettable brews in this picturesque corner of British Columbia!

Discovering Chilliwack: A Beer-Lover's Guide to Local Hikes and Old Yale's Craft Beer Pairings

Discovering Chilliwack: A Beer-Lover's Guide to Local Hikes and Old Yale’s Craft Beer Pairings

Introduction: Nestled in the heart of British Columbia's Fraser Valley, Chilliwack offers outdoor enthusiasts a playground of rugged landscapes, scenic trails, and breathtaking vistas. What better way to complement a day of exploration than with the craft beers of Old Yale Brewing? Join us on a journey through Chilliwack's great outdoors as we pair local hikes with Old Yale Brewing's finest brews, promising an unforgettable experience for both nature lovers and beer aficionados alike.

  1. Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park & West Coast IPA: Situated at the base of the Cascade Mountain Range, Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park beckons adventurers with its pristine beauty and diverse hiking trails. Before embarking on a trek to destinations like Greendrop Lake or Flora Lake, fuel up with Old Yale Brewing's West Coast IPA. Bold and hoppy, with hints of citrus and pine, this IPA is the perfect companion for a day spent exploring Chilliwack's alpine wonders.

  2. Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park & Moon Dance Mango Wheat Ale: A leisurely stroll with a stunning payoff, head to Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. The short and scenic trail leads to an impressive cascade, where the misty spray of the falls creates a refreshing atmosphere. After taking in the natural spectacle, unwind with Old Yale Brewing's Moon Dance Mango Wheat Ale. Bursting with tropical fruit flavours and a hint of sweetness, it's a delightful way to toast to the beauty of Bridal Veil Falls.

  3. Lindeman Lake Trail & Off Trail Pale Ale: Embark on a moderate hike through lush forest to reach the tranquil waters of Lindeman Lake. Surrounded by towering peaks, this hidden gem offers a serene setting for relaxation and reflection. As you soak in the scenery, enjoy the crisp and refreshing Off Trail Pale Ale from Old Yale Brewing. With its balanced bitterness and citrusy aroma, it's the perfect brew to savour amidst the natural beauty of Lindeman Lake.

  4. Mount Cheam Summit & Knotty Blonde Ale: For those seeking a challenge and breathtaking panoramic views, the hike to Mount Cheam Summit is a must-do. Ascend through alpine meadows and rocky terrain to reach the summit, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Fraser Valley and surrounding mountains. Celebrate your achievement with Old Yale Brewing's Knotty Blonde Ale—a light and easy-drinking brew with hints of citrus and honey that pairs perfectly with the crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring scenery.

Chilliwack's outdoor wonders are best experienced with a cold craft beer in hand, and Old Yale Brewing offers the perfect brews to complement every adventure. Whether you're exploring pristine lakes, majestic waterfalls, or towering peaks, let the flavors of Old Yale Brewing's craft beer enhance your journey through Chilliwack's great outdoors. Cheers to unforgettable hikes and unforgettable brews in this picturesque corner of British Columbia!

NEW BEER: BLUE AGAVE COLD IPA

You are NOT ready for our newest Trailblazer release! Introducing Blue Agave Cold IPA! ***drool***

BLUE Agave Cold IPA

ALC: 6.5%

IBU: 45

Hops: Magnum, Cashmere, Amarillo

Malt: Pilsner, Flaked Corn

Crafted with Cashmere and Amarillo hops, our Cold IPA features a bold citrus-forward character with notes of Orange, Lemon and Lime. Flaked Corn and Agave syrup lends a breezy lightness to this IPA, leading to a crisp and refreshingly dry finale. With an extended cool fermentation, this Trailblazer hits all the right notes for a smooth, bright and balanced sipper…

Find this beer at Old Yale Chilliwack, Old Yale Abbotsford, and in your favourite Private Liquor Stores!

Cheers, friends!

Journey to Lindeman Lake with Old Yale

Chilliwack, British Columbia, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting picturesque landscapes and stunning hiking trails. Among its gems is Lindeman Lake, a serene alpine lake tucked away in the lush forests of the Fraser Valley. For adventurers seeking a refreshing reward after a day of hiking, pairing the scenic beauty of Lindeman Lake with beers from Old Yale Brewing promises an unforgettable experience.

Heading to Lindeman Lake:

Nestled in the Chilliwack River Valley, Lindeman Lake is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The trailhead, located off Chilliwack Lake Road, marks the beginning of a moderate 3.4-kilometer hike through dense forest and rocky terrain. As you traverse the well-marked path, keep an eye out for glimpses of the surrounding mountains and the rushing waters of Post Creek.

The Refreshing Reward:

After a rewarding hike, arriving at Lindeman Lake feels like stepping into a postcard. The crystal-clear waters mirror the towering peaks that encircle the lake, creating a tranquil oasis. Whether you're dipping your toes in the water or basking in the sun on the rocky shores, Lindeman Lake offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature's splendor.

Old Yale Brewing's Craft Beer:

To enhance the experience, consider bringing along some craft beer from Old Yale Brewing. With a diverse selection ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, Old Yale Brewing offers something for every palate. Imagine cracking open a cold, refreshing beer while overlooking the breathtaking scenery of Lindeman Lake—it's the perfect way to unwind and savour the moment.

Pairing Recommendations:

For those craving a crisp and refreshing brew, Old Yale Brewing's Sasquatch Stout is an excellent choice. Its smooth texture and notes of chocolate and coffee complement the cool mountain air, making it a delightful companion for lakeside relaxation. Alternatively, the Knotty Blonde Ale offers a lighter option with hints of citrus and honey, ideal for enjoying under the warm afternoon sun.

Final Thoughts:

Exploring Lindeman Lake in Chilliwack, BC, is a journey worth taking for nature enthusiasts and beer lovers alike. With its stunning vistas and tranquil ambiance, Lindeman Lake provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable outdoor adventure. And with Old Yale Brewing's craft beer in hand, the experience becomes even more enjoyable. So pack your hiking gear, grab some brews, and embark on an unforgettable journey to Lindeman Lake—a true hidden gem in the heart of British Columbia's wilderness.

Cooking with Old Yale Beer

Cooking with Old Yale Beer

Beer isn't just for sipping—it's also a versatile ingredient that can elevate your culinary creations to new heights. And when it comes to cooking with beer, the brews from Old Yale offer endless possibilities. From warm soups to decadent desserts, let's explore how you can infuse your dishes with the delicious flavours of Old Yale Brewing's craft beer lineup.

Knotty Blonde Beer Batter Fish and Chips: For a classic pub-style dish with a twist, try using Old Yale Brewing's Knotty Blonde Ale to create a light and crispy beer batter for fish and chips. Combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a generous pour of Knotty Blonde Ale to create a smooth batter with a hint of citrusy sweetness. Dip your favourite white fish fillets into the batter, then fry them until golden brown and crispy. Serve alongside thick-cut fries and tartar sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with a cold glass of Knotty Blonde Ale.

Off Trail Pale Ale Beer Cheese Soup: Warm up on a chilly day with a comforting bowl of beer cheese soup made with Old Yale Brewing's Off Trail Pale Ale. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter until softened, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in chicken broth and Off Trail Pale Ale, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. Add shredded cheddar cheese and a splash of heavy cream to create a rich and indulgent soup that's perfect for dipping crusty bread or pretzel sticks.

Moon Dance Mango Wheat Sorbet: For a refreshing and unexpected dessert, try making sorbet using Old Yale Brewing's Moon Dance Mango Wheat Ale. Combine fresh mango puree with sugar and a splash of Moon Dance Mango Wheat Ale in a saucepan, then heat until the sugar has dissolved. Chill the mixture thoroughly, then churn it in an ice cream maker until smooth and creamy. Serve the sorbet in chilled glasses for a light and fruity dessert that's bursting with tropical flavour.

With Old Yale Brewing's flavorful beers as your secret ingredient, the culinary possibilities are endless. Whether you're adding depth to savoury dishes with Off Trail Pale Ale, infusing sweetness into desserts with Moon Dance Mango Wheat Ale, or creating light and crispy batters with Knotty Blonde Ale, cooking with beer is a delicious way to elevate your meals. So grab your favourite Old Yale brew, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with flavour and fun. Cheers to cooking with Old Yale Brewing's beer!

NEW BEER: BLUEBERRY MOJITO SOUR ALE

Oh yea, baby! Our deliciously refreshing Blueberry Mojito Sour Ale is finally here!

BLUEBERRY MOJITO SOUR ALe

ALC: 4.0%

IBU: 0

Hops: N/A

Malt: Pilsner, Dextrapils

Bursting with Blueberries, a touch of Mint and a zing of Lime, our newest Trailblazer Sour is a unique twist on a classic Mojito cocktail. With an imperial purple-like hue, this Sour offers a unique balanced mix of tart fruitiness, herbal freshness and citrus tang. A taste adventure like no other…

Find this beer at Old Yale Chilliwack, Old Yale Abbotsford, and in your favourite Private Liquor Stores!

Cheers, friends!

Brrrew-tiful Pairings: Winter Activities Meet OYB Beer!

As Christmas passes and the spring seems so distant, the best way to pass the time is to have some winter fun, with a beer in hand, of course! Team OYB has came up with some beer pairings for all the favourite winter activities! Let's make this winter one to remember!

Moon Dance Mango Wheat & Ice Skating

Lace-up those skates and hit the ice! Glide through the crisp winter air, and as you twirl and twist, let the Moon Dance Mango Wheat join the dance. With its tropical fruity notes, every spin becomes a vibrant celebration on your palate, making your ice-skating experience an exotic delight.

Brown Sugar Oat Stout & Skiing

After conquering the slopes, kick off your ski boots and transition into the après-ski vibe with the Brown Sugar Oat Stout. The rich, velvety notes of this stout are the perfect reward for a day of downhill adventures. Picture yourself by the fireside, surrounded by the cozy ambiance of the lodge, and take a sip of winter indulgence. It's not just a drink; it's the flavorful exclamation point to a day well spent on the slopes. Cheers to the perfect après-ski companion!

English Toffee Amber Ale & Campfire Hangs

As the snow blankets the landscape, cozy up by the fire pit with friends and family. Engage in heartwarming conversations while sipping on the English Toffee Amber. This brew, with its sweet toffee notes, becomes the liquid centerpiece of your winter gathering—an indulgent complement to the warmth of fireside camaraderie.

West coast ipa & Showshoeing

Strap on those snowshoes and venture into the winter wonderland with a West Coast IPA in hand. As you tread through the pristine snow, let the hoppy zest of the IPA complement the crisp, cold air. Each step becomes a refreshing journey, with the bold flavors of the West Coast IPA enhancing the thrill of your snow-covered exploration. It's not just snowshoeing; it's an adventure for your taste buds and a hoppy celebration of winter's beauty. Sip, step, and savor the snowy landscape with the perfect companion—West Coast IPA!

sasquatch stout & winter stargazing

Embrace the winter night's magic with a Sasquatch Stout in hand. Picture this—crisp air, a blanket of snow, and you, wrapped up in layers, gazing at the star-studded sky. The Sasquatch Stout's robust and dark character becomes your celestial companion, enhancing the tranquility of the moment. Sip slowly, savor the depth of flavors, and let the Sasquatch Stout elevate your winter stargazing experience into a cosmic celebration. Cheers to the mysteries of the night and the richness of this winter brew!

Winter's calling, and so are these perfect pairings. Grab your gear, chill your brews, and let's make this winter unforgettable! Cheers to cold noses, warm hearts, and great beers! 🍻❄️

NEW BEER: SPARKLING MIMOSA BRUT IPA

What better way to kick off the New Year then with some bubbly? Sparkling Mimosa Brut IPA is out NOW!

sparkling mimosa brut ipa

ALC: 6.0%

IBU: 20

Hops: Amarillo, Pacifica

Malt: Pilsner, Wheat, Oat Malt

Combining the vibrant flavours of Blood Orange with Amarillo and Pacifica hops, we've created a refreshing effervescent brew that delivers a unique blend of citrusy zest and floral notes. Reminiscent of a Mimosa, this Brut IPA offers a light-peach colour, a bright and juicy taste and a clean and bone-dry finish. It's it's a fresh twist on a classic cocktail…

Find this beer at Old Yale Chilliwack, Old Yale Abbotsford, Online for Delivery, or in your favourite Private Liquor Stores!

Cheers, friends!

NEW BEER: PEAR BELGIAN GOLDEN ALE

We’ve gone ahead and created the perfect PEAR-ing, just in time for the holidays!

pear belgian golden ale

ALC: 5.0%

IBU: 18

Hops: Magnum, Azacca

Malt: Pilsner, Vienna, Crystal 30

This Pear Belgian Golden Ale balances a subtle spiciness with fruity esters and the luscious essence of a ripe and juicy Pear. With each sip of this Trailblazer, the perfect pairing of the intricate yeast and Pear unfold, offering a nuanced, yet refreshing brew.

Find this beer at Old Yale Chilliwack, Old Yale Abbotsford, Online for Delivery, or in your favourite Private Liquor Stores!

Cheers, friends!

NEW BEER: SWEET CREAM SESSION STOUT

We love big and bold stouts here at OYB… and while this one comes in lighter at 4%, it sure does pack a punch of flavour!

sweet cream session stout

ALC: 4.0%

IBU: 25

Hops: Magnum

Malt: Pale, Carafa III, Flaked Oats, Roast Barley, Crystal

Reminiscent of Tiramisu, a silky Espresso note intertwines with a sublte touch of Vanilla to round out a malt-forward profile. At only 4.0%, a rich dreamy body helps balance the Dark Chocolate and Roast character, making this Milk Stout a sessionable, smooth and full flavoured experience…

Find this beer at Old Yale Chilliwack, Old Yale Abbotsford, Online for Delivery, or in your favourite Private Liquor Stores!

Cheers, friends!

NEW BEER: GOLDEN APPLE CIDER ALE

There’s nothing better than a nice apple cider in the fall… so we amped it up with our friends at Dominion Cider Co to create our new Golden Apple Cider Ale!

GOLDEN APPLE CIDER ALE

ALC: 5.0%

IBU: 15

Hops: Magnum, Azacca

Malt: Pilsner, Vienna, Crystal 30

Availability: 473ml 4-pack

A collaboration with our friends at Dominion Cider Co., this Cider-inspired Ale offers notes of Pie Crust and subtle Toffee undertones. The Golden Ale base elegantly intertwines with the crisp and bright notes of dry Apple Cider. With a vibrant gold colour, you'll find a refreshing tartness, complex balanced profile and a semi-dry finish...

Find this beer at Old Yale Chilliwack, Old Yale Abbotsford, Online for Delivery, or in your favourite Private Liquor Stores!

Cheers, friends!

Hoppy Halloween: Beer and Halloween Candy Pairings

As Halloween approaches, it's time to elevate your candy stash with the perfect companion—beer! Team OYB underwent a super serious research process to come up with the definitive list of Halloween Candies that pair perfectly with your favourite OYB beers! So when you inevitably end up eating the box of candy you planned on handing out, make sure to pair your favourite beers the right way!

Moon Dance Mango Wheat & Skittles

Unleash a burst of tropical delight by pairing the Moon Dance Mango Wheat with the rainbow explosion of Skittles. The fruity goodness of the Skittles is the perfect complement to the tropical vibes of the Mango Wheat. This pairing will truly have you tasting the rainbow!

english toffee amber ale & twix

Elevate your toffee experience with the English Toffee Amber Ale paired with Twix Bars. The beer's rich toffee undertones complement the crunchy biscuit, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate layers, creating a symphony of caramelized sweetness.

nectaron juicy pale ale & sour patch kids

Turn up the fun with the Nectaron Juicy Pale Ale and Sour Patch Kids. The tropical hoppy goodness of the beer contrasts playfully with the zesty and sour kick of the candy, creating a dynamic flavor experience.

Brown sugar oat stout & Reese’s Cups

Indulge in decadence by pairing the Brown Sugar Oat Stout with the classic Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. The stout's rich, chocolatey profile complements the creamy peanut butter filling, making it a match made in Halloween heaven.

west coast ipa & snickers

Satisfy your cravings for sweet, salty, and hoppy goodness by pairing the West Coast IPA with Snickers Bars. The IPA's hoppy notes cut through the nougat, caramel, and peanuts, creating a symphony of flavors that's pure indulgence in every sip and bite.

There you have it folks, the ultimate guide to pairing your favourite brews with some tasty halloween candy. Elevate your snacking game this fall with these dynamic duos. Hoppy Halloween!

Cheers, friends!

Miracle at Old Yale Brewing coming this November

Okay, yes, we know, we know, it’s only October, what on earth are we doing talking about Christmas already? … We think it’s a little crazy too, BUT once you read below and hear what we’ve got planned, we think you’ll forgive us….right? right?!?

INTRODUCING MIRACLE AT OLD YALE BREWING:

Friends, we are SO SO SO excited to share that this coming holiday season, we’ll be hosting Miracle at Old Yale Brewing at both our Abbotsford Craft Brewery + Kitchen and our Chilliwack Craft Brewery + Kitchen!

What exactly is Miracle you ask?

Miracle is a Christmas-themed and oh so whimsical pop up cocktail bar that serves holiday cocktails in a VERY VERY VERY festive setting. With kitschy holiday decor, professionally developed cocktails and the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve even been to, Miracle is sure to get even the grouchiest grinches in the holiday spirit.

Okay, so we do we have your attention now? Great! Let’s get into the details…

When: November 20 - December 31

Where:

Old Yale Abbotsford - 33738 Laurel Street, Abbotsford

Old Yale Chilliwack - 404-44550 South Sumas Road, Chilliwack

What:

Crazy Christmas decor everywhere you look, delicious professionally developed holiday cocktails in the cutest glassware you’ve ever seen (available to purchase too!), yummy hand-crafted beers and eats, fun and unique holiday events and more!

The Cocktails:

You’ll have to wait a little longer to find out exactly what’s on the cocktail menu, but here’s a sneak peek of one or two, or three… okay five ;)…

  • Christmaspolitan - vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, lime, rosemary, absinthe mist

  • Carol Barrel - irish whiskey, banana liqueur, jamaican navy strength rum , guinness punch, lime, aromatic & chocolate bitters, nutmeg

  • Christmas Criket - blanco tequila, vanilla liqueur, minty amaro, coco pandan, cream, mole bitters

  • Mulled Wine - mulled red wine, tawny, port, orange liqueur, christmas spices

  • Koala Cooler - applejack, blanc vermouth, aquavit, spiced apple, lime, celery shrub, eucalyptus, bitters, mint soda

Just like the days of Christmas, there’s TWELVE tasty and unique cocktails, so stay tuned for the rest as we get a little closer.

And in case you’re thinking… wait aren’t you a brewery? Where’s the beer at Old Yale? Well don’t you worry friends, we’ve got you covered. We’re brewing up some delicious festive beers as we speak…Tis’ the Saison after all…

The Decor:

When we said festive decor everywhere you look… oh you better believe, we mean festive.

We’re turning both of our Craft Brewery + Kitchens in Abbotsford and Chilliwack into whimsical and cozy Christmas cabins. We’re talking Christmas lights strung from the ceiling, we’re talking holiday decorations in every corner, on every table and well every surface, we’re talking ornaments hung across the ceiling, so so so many trees, and you better believe we’re talking about a TON of photo op moments throughout. Even our OYB Team members will be decked out in holiday t-shirts, sweaters and santa hats.

Stay tuned for pics of this Christmas chaos as we get a little closer…

The Events

While Miracle is an over-a-month long event in itself, you know we’re not stopping there! Mark these dates in your calendars now, friends:

  • November 20: Miracle Launches at Old Yale Brewing (both locations)

  • November 26: Holiday Sip & Shop in the Brewery at Old Yale Chilliwack

  • December 3: Brunch with Santa at Old Yale Abbotsford

  • December 4: Christmas General Knowledge Trivia at Old Yale Abbtosford

  • December 5: Christmas General Knowledge Trivia at Old Yale Chilliwack

  • December 5: Christmas Wreath Workshop at Old Yale Abbotsford

  • December 6: Christmas Wreath Workshop at Old Yale Chilliwack

  • December 10: Brunch with Santa at Old Yale Chilliwack

  • December 11: Christmas Movie Trivia at Old Yale Abbotsford

  • December 12: Christmas Movie Trivia at Old Yale Chilliwack

  • December 16: Back Porch Carollers (aka LIve Holiday Music) at both locations

  • December 18: Christmas Music Trivia at Old Yale Abbotsford

  • December 19: Christmas Music Trivia at Old Yale Chilliwack

  • December 23: Back Porch Carollers (aka Live Holiday Music) at both locations

For more details on each event, visit oldyalebrewing.com/events

So, now do you understand why we’re already feeling that Christmas spirit at Old Yale Brewing?

Miracle at Old Yale Brewing is on it’s way, get ready!

Learn more about Miracle at Old Yale Brewing Abbotsford here

Leanr more about Miracle at Old Yale Brewing Chilliwack here