Kilannan Brewing Company
Owen Sound, Ontario
If you’ve been in Owen Sound at all, chances are you’ve at least heard the name Kilannan before.
Founded in 2012, Kilannan has since found its way into the refrigerators of many local establishments and the hearts (and bellies) of Owen Sounders. On my trip to Kilannan Brewery in the Rockford Plaza, I sampled their flagship brews, two seasonals, and a new beer in the lineup!
Kolsch – 5% ABV
Appearance
Transparent golden colour, with minimal head
Nose
Almost no discernable scent. Only the tiniest hint of malt to be found here.
Taste
The Kolsch is a mild, easy drinking beer. It’s faintly sweet and completely refreshing.
Body
Light, smooth, and clean
Where to Enjoy
Up to your knees in a lake on a hot afternoon.
Available at the brewery, Owen Sound Beer Stores, LCBO, and many bars and restaurants in Owen Sound
Altbier – 5.2% ABV
Appearance
Transparent, deep caramel
Nose
Smoky, malty, with a subtle sweetness.
Taste
Malt is the star of the show in the Altbier, taking on a sweet, bready… Almost smoky flavour towards the end.
Body
Very smooth, but on the heavier end of things.
Where to Enjoy
In a hazy, dimly lit bar with a very good jazz or blues band playing.
Available at the brewery, Owen Sound Beer Stores, LCBO, and many bars and restaurants in Owen Sound
Cucumber Kolsch– 5% ABV
***SEASONAL
Appearance
Transparent golden colour, with minimal head
Nose
Like a field of cucumbers
Taste
This beer shares the same basic recipe as the Kolsch, with the addition of freshly grated Ontario cucumber. As such, it‘s as drinkable as the Kolsch, but the cucumber gives it an undeniable freshness
Body
Light, smooth, and clean
Where to Enjoy
On a veranda, overlooking a wide open field.
This seasonal beer can be purchased at the brewery while supplies last
The Men Who Stare at Oats
Oatmeal Stout – 4.8% ABV
***SEASONAL
Appearance
Dark brown, approaching black
Nose
Sweet and bready
Taste
The flavour matches the scent. The grains are the centerpiece, especially the sweet flaked oats, giving it a hearty flavour.
Body
Full-bodied, with satisfying weight
Where to Enjoy
In a big chair by a fireplace, with a big curly dog by your feet
ISA ‘Bout Time
India Session Ale – 4% ABV
***NEW!
Appearance
Rich golden colour
Nose
Hoppy and powerfully citrusy
Taste
The India Session Ale is hoppy, without being in-your-face bitter. Rather, the hops give it a refreshing citrus character that leaves you wanting more.
Body
This is a light, easy drinking beer
Where to Enjoy
ISA ‘Bout Time is the perfect beer to enjoy after helping your friend move.
Final Thoughts
Kilannan’s beers are accessible. Whether you’re a veteran craft beer connoisseur or just getting into the game.
Their German-style brews highlight just how different beers can be from one another without resorting to any extremes. Everything’s superbly drinkable. And with more seasonal brews on the horizon, this is a brewery to keep your eye on… because beer is good, and craft beer is better.
Written by Andy Elliott
Photos by Andy Elliott
