Mr. Bob Sartor reports

BIG ROCK URBAN OPENS IN VANCOUVER'S BREWERY CREEK DISTRICT AND INTRODUCES HOLLOW TREE, PACIFIC NORTHWEST RED ALE

In the heart of the city's burgeoning craft beer district, the doors are now open at Big Rock Brewery Inc.'s Big Rock Urban brewery and eatery. Located at the corner of Alberta Street and 4th Avenue West in the Mount Pleasant area, the brewery was described by chief executive officer Bob Sartor as "a neighbourhood hub that, in addition to fresh new B.C.-made beers, includes live entertainment, locally sourced food, educational tours and tastings." He adds, "It's a place we hope craft beer lovers will want to call home."

The brewery can produce 20,000 hectolitres of beer that B.C. brewmaster Jody Hammell has taken charge of innovating. "West Coast craft beer drinkers are thirsty for fresh, natural, local brews -- and that's what Big Rock is all about," says Ms. Hammell.

Introducing Hollow Tree

The province's majestic red cedars are the inspiration for brewmaster Ms. Hammell's inaugural B.C. beer. Hollow Tree is a Pacific Northwest-style red ale. "A refreshing session brew to enjoy after a day exploring our beautiful backyard," says Ms. Hammell. "The Big Rock difference in this red ale comes from hop backing whole Cascade leaf hops. Their citrus, flowery characters are complemented by the rich caramel and toffee flavours of Carastan and Munich malts."

With an alcohol by volume of 5.8 per cent and international bittering unit of 55, Hollow Tree is only available in British Columbia.

30 years of brewing great craft beer

Big Rock Brewery was originally established by Ed McNally in Alberta, who, at the age of 60, decided to make a beer that he and his friends could enjoy while socializing. Over the last 30 years, Big Rock has become one of Canada's most popular craft brewers. It is excited to be carrying on its founder's tradition at Big Rock Urban by welcoming guests to a shared experience in the eatery and throughout the brewery. Patrons are welcomed to sit, share and enjoy. The eatery features local visual artists and live music rotating nightly. Executive chef Alex Newton adds to the BRU experience by introducing a share-plate-focused menu. A handmade wood stone oven for pizza and flatbread sets the stage for some of Mr. Newton's delicious creations. Tours can be booked via the Big Rock Urban website, which all lead to the new retail store, equipped with tasting room and growler filling stations.

The grand opening weekend is slated for April 10. Come by and join the company for a pint!