Living in Ontario we are extremely blessed to experience all 4 seasons. Some months more extremely than others. But we still have such a strong delineation between weather and moods that each season is its own personality. Fall is one of the best.
Fall is my favorite season of all. It evolves from hot, blue sky, neon bathing suit endless days to crisper winds, autumnal color-scapes and cozier vibes. The trees are turning vibrant shades of orange and red and yellow. Consequently Fall is also the best time for road trips. Weekends aren’t as busy with activities which leaves time for the open road.
A truly great road trip means meandering country roads and strategically placed bathroom breaks. This is a no On Route available adventure. Its discovering the unexpected. A journey almost as fun as it’s destination.
One highly recommended road trip this fall is to Cowbell Brewing Company in Blyth, Ontario. Where you ask? Exactly! The perfect location that takes you off the 400 series highways and through rolling landscapes full of corn, cows and the occasional horse drawn cart.
Cowbell Brewing opened their doors in 2017. Their goal? To be community minded, sustainability focused and to be an innovator in the craft beer industry.
They chose Blyth as its location due to its own reputation of making this small town a destination but also because they saw community front and center in these fields. Throughout the years Cowbell has given back to the community through charitable contribution to Ontario’s Hospitals and the MS Bike program. They also try to utilize locally sourced materials and ingredients whenever possible.
Fall in Love with their Sustainability and Inclusion
Cowbell Brewing is also a carbon-positive business brewing with a closed-loop system and installing energy saving upgrades. They are stewards of the local aquifer to utilize waste and water management practices that supports the environment.
They are also leaders in inclusion. There are so many small details in the brewery that go unnoticed by most but are extremely impactful to those that feel seen. Concrete pads for motorcyclists to be able to safely park their bikes. Shifts is tonal shades of building materials to support those visually impaired. Adult changing stations to provide dignity to those with challenges. Cowbell is committed to doing the right thing.
They also are brewing incredible beer.
The Beer
Everything starts with Canadian sourced ingredients and brewed with state of the art technology. But even then it has to taste good. The brewers meticulously develop recipes for beers that a true to their style but also be palatable for consumers. Over the years they have developed Ontario classics like Shindig, a refreshing and crisp lager to Bobcat, a smooth malt forward red ale. Their latest release that is available now in the LCBO is a Oatmeal Vanilla Black Lager with notes of marshmallow, biscuit, chocolate milk and oatmeal. It is dessert in a glass. Perfect campfire beer.
However Cowbell knows not everyone drinks beer. And because of that they have developed an expansive menu of alternative beverages. Ready to drink ciders come in a variety of fruit flavours perfect for fall. They have a brand of seltzers and their Twelve Apostles collection of spirits. There is something for everyone. Even a non alcoholic option for the driver of this road trip.
The Restaurant
If they don’t already have everything you need for your adventure they also have a restaurant serving elevated pub food. Whether you sit inside with the massively high ceilings highlighting what an architectural wonder the “barn” is or lounge on their patio overlooking the grounds you will find a delicious bite to enjoy with your libation.
The best fall road trips is when you find a gem along the way, Whether planned or by accident. If you have the urge one weekend to see the leaves changing, feel the crisp air through the car and enjoy a truly Ontarian experience then head over to Cowbell Brewing. They will be happy to welcome you!
**I would like to thank Cowbell for inviting me out for a day to learn more about their amazing facility.
If you are looking for more local fall ideas check them out here.