For today’s episode of the Let’s Meet For a Beer Podcast, I met up with Ian Binmore, Co-Founder of Bow River Brewing in Calgary, Alberta. Ian’s passion for craft beer began in the 1980’s when he was a student in California. As a member of a homebrewing group called the Maltose Falcons he was introduced to unique beer styles before the idea of craft beer was even close to mainstream.
Ian graduated to become a Petroleum Engineer and had a career that allowed him to travel around the world. Along the way, his passion for unique beer continued to grow, “wherever I went I would try the beers and especially seek out the small breweries. I learned a lot this way about beer from all over – especially North America and Europe”.
Once Ian retired from the Oil & Gas Industry he decided to follow his passion and built Bow River Brewing with his wife Beatrice. They wanted a brewery that combined great beer, good music and a comfortable, open atmosphere. “I get a real thrill hearing customers laughing and sharing stories together over a pint.”
We discuss how being an engineer was an asset when it came to building the brewery, as well as developing unique recipes as a brewer. “There are a lot of engineers in craft beer because brewing – like good engineering – requires both technical understanding and a vision to create great results”.
The current pandemic has been a challenge for Ian and his team and they look forward to seeing their guests enjoying the taproom again soon. It was great to learn about Ian’s journey and his passion for beer – I hope you enjoy the conversation.
