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Stars of Vancouver Craft Brewery winner: 33 Acres Brewing Company

Q&A with beer expert and editor of The Growler, Rob Mangelsdorf
33 acres
Growler editor Rob Mangelsdorf digs the roasty goodness of 33 Acres of Darkness. Photo Dan Toulgoet

What do you like about 33 Acres’ beer?
Behind the slick marketing and minimalist aesthetic are some very well-made and thoughtfully crafted beers. The majority of 33’s beers are session strength, which is great, because I have work to do and I can’t afford to be hungover (a serious workplace hazard in this line of work).

What word best describes 33 Acres’ beer?
Balance. Brewmaster Dave Varga has been around a long time and he knows the most important characteristic (and often the most elusive) of sessionable beers is balance. No single element is ever allowed to overpower a 33 beer; they all work in harmony with each other, complementing or contrasting as needed.

What’s your favourite beer by 33 Acres?
33 Acres of Darkness is a fine example of a German schwarzbier. Roasty chocolate and coffee flavours are right up front, but the hop bitterness keeps the sweet maltiness in check, finishing crisp and dry and never overstaying its welcome.