Beer lovers can take a bold step into the future today, at Niagara College, where the next generation of brewers will showcase their creations during Project Brew: CyBrewPunk 2099 – The Future of Brewing.
Hosted by students in the final term of the College’s acclaimed Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management program, the outdoor festival will feature 12 unique student-brewed beers, futuristic flair, and culinary creations. The event takes place Friday, Aug. 8, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
“Project Brew offers a unique, hands-on learning experience that bridges the gap between theory and practice,” said Alyssa Janssen, professor in the Brewmaster program. “Students design this event from start to finish, including each of the beers that are available to taste.”
The event goes beyond the brew. From marketing and branding to hospitality and guest experience, students take the reins on every detail.
“Project Brew is our opportunity to bring everything we’ve learned over the past two years to life,” said Chris Morgan, class chair and brewer behind Neufunder Weisse, a raspberry, peach, and vanilla Berliner Weisse inspired by his Newfoundland roots.
The futuristic CyBrewPunk 2099 theme emerged from a desire to break tradition and imagine what beer — and brewing — could look like decades from now.
“We wanted to create a unique theme that hadn’t been done before,” Morgan added.
Festivalgoers, all 19 and older, will have the chance to sample the students’ innovative brews and vote for their favourite to determine the People’s Choice Award. A panel of judges from the College and brewing industry will also evaluate the beers, with the top brewer receiving a $4,500 scholarship sponsored by Lallemand Brewing.
To pair with the brews, guests can indulge in a bold menu created by Chef Justin Downes and culinary students. Highlights include Korean Fried Chicken Sandwiches and Corn & Crab Fritters. The full menu can be viewed at projectbrew.squarespace.com/menu.
Tickets are $35 plus tax, including five beer tokens and a commemorative glass, with group discounts available for six or more. Additional tokens can be purchased onsite. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Matt Soos Memorial Scholarship, honouring a late graduate of the Brewmaster program.
Tickets and full event details are available at Eventbrite.
To meet the brewers and explore their stories, visit projectbrew.squarespace.com.
