Savoie’s Brewhouse has recently opened in Charlo River, in Northeast New Brunswick. Owner and brewer Rodney Savoie was kind enough to answer a few of our questions regarding his new venture.
ACBB: How did you get into the world of craft beer?
Rodney: I have only been into craft beer for about 4 to 5 years now, and that is approximately how long I have been brewing. A HUGE thanks goes to Derek Leslie from Shiretown Beer who had piqued my interest, but also has been like a mentor and guide for me in this endeavour!
What made you decide to take the step into brewing professionally?
I always wanted to get into business. I first looked into micro distilling, but as time went on, I started home brewing and enjoyed the beer that was being made. Others have as well, so that is why I decided to move towards the beer business.
Savoie’s 75l electric brewing system
What size/manufacturer/type of system are you be brewing on?
I am using a 75 litre electric brewhouse, with a control panel from High Gravity Brew, and hot liquor tank, mash tun and kettle from Ontario Beer Kegs.
Can you tell us about the beers you are offering initially?
I started with an Amber beer which now is called Chaleur Phantom Amber Ale. Not long after, the Blonde Ale was created, Island Lake Blonde. Both are lightly hopped beers. The next beer is going to be a Rye IPA called Charlo Falls IPA, named after a well known local swimming spot, and a popular spot for photographers.
Chaleur Phantom and Island Lake Blonde are available at the ANBL
What are your plans for distribution? Plans for tap accounts, bottles, growlers, etc.?
I am starting with bottles in the ANBL locations near Charlo, including Bathurst, Campbellton, Dalhousie, and Tracadie-Sheila. We will be supplying the James Joyce Pub in Fredericton with kegs when possible, and will be on tap at the Heron’s Nest Pub in Charlo very soon. Due to the small volume, we don’t plan on offering growlers for the time being.
Primary Fermenters at Savoie’s Brewhouse
Do you have a favorite beer style, beer, or brewery you enjoy drinking?
As of right now my favorite beer would be an Amber beer with mild to medium hop bitterness. I also enjoy an IPA from time to time.
What are your plans for the future?
There are no real plans: we are just going to brew, fill orders as best as we can, and see where this will take us.
Thanks again to Rodney for answering our questions. You can follow along on Twitter and Facebook to stay up-to-date with the ANBL availability and new beers as they are released.