The Winnipeg Goldeyes (independent; American Association) are making a unique addition to Shaw Park, as the team has announced plans for Craft Beer Corner. Featuring offerings from several Manitoba-based breweries, Craft Beer Corner will make its debut in 2018.
Once completed, the 1,400-square foot deck will extend from the main concourse across the top of Sections A and B down the left field line. All fans in attendance will have the opportunity to visit the Craft Beer Corner, which will be outfitted with stand up tables and chairs, along with a unique view of the entire stadium.
“The Goldeyes have always supported local companies, including Fort Garry Brewing, Danny’s Whole Hog, Manitoba Pork, and Winkler Meats to name a few,” said Goldeyes’ general manager Andrew Collier. “We are very excited to provide our fans with the fantastic beer that Manitoba’s craft brewery scene has to offer. The new space will serve as a great meeting place fans can visit while enjoying a game.”
The Craft Beer Corner will offer six taps throughout the 2018 season, beginning with the Goldeyes’ home opener on Friday, May 25 versus Sioux Falls. Labatt Breweries Manitoba will offer selections from their craft beer lineup on two of the taps, including Mill Street Organic and Goose Island. Winnipeg-based Fort Garry Brewing Company, which has produced the Goldeyes’ official “Angry Fish” Pilsner since 2012, will also serve from two taps during the season.
The remaining two taps will be shared by five Manitoba-based breweries for 10 home games each. The breweries include One Great City Brewing Co., Little Brown Jug, Barn Hammer Brewing Company, Torque Brewery, and Farmery Estate Brewery.
Jon Burge and Tim Hudek operate One Great City Brewing Co. (OGC), which is located at 1596 Ness Avenue. The brewpub offers six core pours along with a selection of seasonal ales and test batches.
“One Great City Brewing Co. is excited to be a part of the expanding partnership between Winnipeg sports and craft beer!” said Hudek. “We are proud to support our local champions, and look forward to another great season.”
Kevin Selch opened Little Brown Jug to help revitalize Winnipeg’s historic exchange district. The brewhouse is located at 336 William in the former Red River Motor Coach building, and is home to the 1919 Belgian Pale Ale.
“I can’t think of a better way to enjoy a Goldeyes game than with a local Manitoba craft beer,” said Selch. “Little Brown Jug is thrilled to be a part of this opportunity to be featured at Shaw Park.”
Winnipeg-owned Barn Hammer Brewing Company is a brewery, taproom, and bottle shop at 595 Wall Street. Their selection consists of five signature offerings, various seasonal and experimental styles, as well as special one-off batches.
“We’re very excited for the opportunity to have our beer available at Goldeyes’ games this summer,” said Sable Birch, Barn Hammer Brewing Company. “Big thanks to everyone at the Goldeyes for supporting local breweries!”
Located at 330-830 King Edward Street, Torque Brewing opened in 2016 and features four core pours, as well as a variety of seasonal and taproom-only selections. Enthusiasts can also participate in Torque’s Years of Beer membership program.
“We are very pleased to be a part of the Goldeyes’ craft beer expansion,” said John Heim, President, Torque Brewing Co. “They have always supported the local beer scene and now, as the industry has grown, they continue to offer their guests top local choices for beer. Just one more reason to head down to the ballpark this summer.”
After years of working on both their family farm and in the restaurant business, brothers Chris and Lawrence Warwaruk started Farmery Estate Brewery in 2012. Located at 480 MB-5 in Neepawa, Farmery Estate uses natural, homegrown ingredients to create offerings that encompass the “taste of the prairies.”
“Farmery Estate Brewery strives to keep everything ‘As Homegrown As It Gets,’ said Jason Fuchs, Farmery Estate Brewery. “From the farm to your beer, we stay true to the prairies.”
Craft Beer Corner 2018 Local Brewery Schedule
Labatt Breweries Manitoba – All season
Fort Garry Brewing Company – All season
One Great City Brewing Co. – May 25th-31st, June 8th-10th
Little Brown Jug – June 11th-13th, June 18th-20th, June 25th-28th
Barn Hammer Brewing Company – June 29th-30th, July 1st, July 9th-15th
Torque Brewery – July 24th-29th, August 3rd-6th
Farmery Estate Brewery – August 7th-8th, August 17th-19th, August 27th-31st
Images of Craft Beer Corner construction courtesy Winnipeg Goldeyes.