Here at Vancouver Island Brewery we are fortunate enough to mark 2014 with a yearlong celebration of the trailblazing efforts that made the brewery into the award-winning and internationally recognized institution that is has become. This year is the 30th anniversary for Vancouver Island Brewery and we will mark this milestone year with a public celebration and a signature brew.

"It's amazing to look back at the last 30 years and see how far we've come as a brewery, as a community and as an industry. We're extremely grateful for all the support we've received over the last 30 years," said Barry Fisher, Owner, Vancouver Island Brewery.

As part of the celebration, Vancouver Island Brewery has created a 30th Anniversary Imperial Red Ale. "This is a tribute to the beer that helped make this brewery, Piper's Pale Ale," said Marketing Manager Adam Ball. "At 8.5% alc./vol, this bold, malty, well-hopped beer is the brewery's way of paying homage to the past and looking forward to the future."

Crafted in small batches there is a limited supply of bottles available at fine local beer stores and at Vancouver Island Brewery's on-site beer store.

"Our 30th Anniversary Imperial Red Ale is a celebration, a way to give back, and a thank-you for those who have helped us along the way," said Ralf Pittroff, Brewmaster. "This beer was brewed in the adventurous spirit of the founders of our brewery and the craft beer movement in Western Canada. These pioneers helped to transform BC into the most exciting beer province in Canada and for that we are thankful."

To kick off the celebrations Vancouver Island Brewery will be hosting an Open House Saturday May 3rd from 1pm - 5pm. There will be free brewery tours, samples of craft beers paired with artisan cheeses. Plus 91.3 the Zone will be broadcasting live from the brewery and there will be live music by Ganjo Bassman.

Vancouver Island Brewery started in 1984 with a humble, hand-built brewhouse and some interesting ideas about beer. Today it's one of BC's longest-running craft start-ups and boasts multiple award winning brands including the BC Beer Awards "Best in Show" winning Hermannator Ice Bock.

When Vancouver Island Brewery first opened its doors, there were less than a handful of craft breweries in operation in Western Canada. Today, there are more than 80 craft breweries in operation, and BC breweries lead the nation in variety of styles, innovation, experimentation, and quality.