I'm headed back to The Rock this June for the first time since 2017. Just from looking online, I can see that the Newfoundland beer world has done a 180 since then. When I was last in NL, it seemed like the majority of craft beer was from Port Rexton, Quidi Vidi and Dildo. I now see dozens of newer breweries and have no idea who is worth checking out over the others. Who is making some noise in in the area that is a must stop? I'll be traveling between Port Aux Basques and St. John's and staying with family closer to St. John's. There won't be be much time to stop at too many places along the way. . Are there any can't miss stops along the Trans Canadian? Which local breweries should I look for in the NLC stores? Anybody making spontaneous or native brews? Any info at all is a help, would also be happy to bring some homebrew and New England beers to trade/share.
If you cross into Canada via New Brunswick be very aware of how much beer you have. Each adult (over 19) is allowed to bring 8.5 liters of beer without duty or tax. That is equivalent to a 24 of 12 oz cans, or 18 US pints (16 oz). After that the duties come in, and in New Brunswick they are intentionally prohibitive. Duty and taxes are 90% of the face value of the beer in Canadian dollars. If you cannot provide receipts, it will get poured. If you wonder why the tax and duty are so insane ask the folks who own Moosehead. It's 100% protectionism, and no government here will change that thanks to dark dealings. So, just be aware and plan accordingly. Oh, Gushue eh? Clearly some Newfoundland roots there. I have family there as well, and was born in Gander.
Out of curiosity, is it the same for visitors and Canadians? I know each province is different, but I have a friend who crosses over from Buffalo with between 50 and 75 bottles and cans of differing sizes several times a year. He is rarely asked if he has any booze, let alone asked about amounts. When I make the same crossing, I have always had to declare what I have.
Thanks for the heads up. I heard that crossing with different goods can be a PITA, but didn't know the details. What a crock. Last time crossing, we were asked what we had, but didn't feel the need to confirm and look. Definitely some Newfie roots, I must have missed that Golden blood though. Maybe the name will get us some reservations after that Brier Cup win!
New Brunswick has an incredibly giant stick up its ass regarding booze. Remember this is the same province that does spot checks at provincial borders. I don't get it at all, but it happens.
Go to Bannerman in St John's. They are the best brewery in NFLD right now. Port Rexton and Landwash are both decent as well. The Canadian boarder is more concerned with Canadians bringing booze back into Canada. You should be fine crossing over, however, as always YMMV.
