Look what I found in The Beer Store earlier this week. Who knew there was a brewery in Pickering? Turns out, County Durham Brewing Company is just a short hop from Lake Ontario in Pickering, at 1885 Clements Road. Apparently, you can call (905) 686-3022 to arrange a visit.

According to Ontario Craft Brewers, County Durham’s Hop Head Cask Ale took the Golden Tap Award for the best beer brewed in Ontario in 2009. But that choice wasn’t available so I settled for a six-pack of their Signature Ale instead. With a nice hop-malt balance it tasted just as attractive as it looked. County Durham also makes a Hemp Ale—not available where I was shopping—but described as having a nutty flavour.

As a dedicated locovore, I’d love to know anyone is familiar with a local pub that serves County Durham. Any suggestions?