Alexander Keith's Brewery taps into craft beer market

Alexander Keith's Brewery in Halifax is hoping to tap into the growing craft beer market. It has brought in a new brewmaster to create some small-batch brews made with local flavours.

"What we are doing here and what my privilege is, is to really play around, find any ingredient I think would be interesting in a beer and go ahead and try a couple of small batches," said brewmaster Stephan Gagliardi in an interview Wednesday at the Lower Water Street location.

"And if it works and everybody is on board ... I'll brew it on the large scale."

First ale ready June 16

Gagliardi's first creation, called Cornerstone Edinburgh Pale Ale, will launch June 16. He describes it as an English-style pale ale with a Scottish twist. It is made with golden promise malt, which he said gives it "a rounder flavour and a sweeter edge."

In a news release, the brewery said  seasonal and limited edition beers crafted at the brewery will be sold in kegs, growlers, 650 ml bottles and six-pack bottles. New brews will be unveiled throughout the year.

When asked if the brewery is concerned these new brews will cut into its already existing market, Gagliardi said they are just trying to give current customers another experience.

"Then if anybody else want to try it and fall in love with the brand, that will be a bonus as well," he said