Aya Tohami

Client: Ontario Brewing Awards​ Role: Feature Writer​ Scope: Social Media Content​ Audience: Ontario craft beer enthusiasts, brewers, and event attendees In 2023, I wrote a series of in-depth brewery spotlights for the Ontario Brewing Awards—long-form features designed to highlight the province’s most celebrated craft breweries and their standout stories. Each spotlight served as both a mini profile and a love letter to the brewers behind the beer. Brewery Features — Each article covered the heart of the brewery: their founding story, signature brews, community roots, values, and what makes them a true standout in Ontario’s brewing scene. Example:​ “At Cowbell Brewing Co., sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s part of their DNA. From closed-loop systems to community-focused brewing, their story is just as refreshing as their beer.” Tone & Style — The writing combined warmth and storytelling with a spotlight on the product, giving readers a true sense of the brewery’s personality and impact. Results: The spotlights were published and promoted as part of the Ontario Brewing Awards' digital presence.​ Used to amplify award-winning breweries and deepen engagement among craft beer fans.​ Provided breweries with shareable content they could use to boost their own visibility. Tone: Genuine, community-focused, and celebratory—designed to reflect the passion behind Ontario’s best breweries This series helped put a human face to the awards, promoting not just the brews but the brilliant people and values behind them. Paris Brewing and Malting Paris Brewing and Malting (@parisbeerco) is stealing the spotlight with a whopping total of 7 awards at the Ontario Brewing Awards! This brewery is making waves in the world of craft beer. With hops hand-picked from their very own farm in Paris, Ontario, this brewery uses both their own as well as locally sourced ingredients. Grab a bite to eat at their contemporary urban restaurant and taproom, which features a wide range of beer varieties, delicious food pairings, and outstanding service from their beer experts. Their bottle shop, which is next to the restaurant and taproom, is a great place to sample some of their highly acclaimed, award-winning brews. 2 of their incredible brews even won our Best of show! Paris Brewing and Malting is simply a must-visit. Have you ever been there? If not, you’re missing out! -Flora Hall Brewery 🍻 Come with us on a journey of taste and tradition at Flora Hall Brewing, a cozy spot in Ottawa where good vibes and great tastes collide. 37 Flora St., once neglected, is now a vibrant hotspot with an 18-hectolitre brewhouse at its heart - the heart of Flora Hall's beer magic. They have it all, from hoppy ales to deep stouts, thanks to local craftspeople and high-quality ingredients. Aside from their delicious brews, their restaurant creates gastronomic excellence in the form of culturally influenced comfort dishes. Think global flavors, local ingredients, and the perfect companion to your drinks and chats. Dave Longbottom, the founder, wanted to create a spot that feels like home, where everyone – from regulars to first-timers – leaves with a smile. 🍻🍺 Stop by Flora Hall brewery on 37 Flora Street, Ottawa, and you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time. -Natterjack Brewery An incredible brewery with a heartfelt story, today we’re shining the light on Natterjack Brewery, located on 25292 Talbot Line. Meet the heart and soul behind Natterjack Brewing Company, the late Matthew Derek Soos. A son, brother, and uncle, Matt's passion for brewing and use of unusual ingredients left a lasting impression on the craft beer scene. Tragically, Matt's life was cut short in 2015, just a day before celebrating the arrival of his niece. Even in his passing, Matt's selflessness shone through as he chose to give others a chance at life through organ donation. In 2016, his family, deeply touched by Matt's spirit, founded Natterjack Brewing Company Ltd. Their mission: to honor Matt's legacy by creating simple yet unique beers, echoing his love for finding beauty in the simplest things along the shores of Lake Erie. Natterjack Brewing is more than a brewery; it's a tribute to a wonderful man and a kind soul. Matt's dreams and passions live on in every sip, and his family continues his legacy by crafting beers that capture the essence of simplicity and uniqueness. Here’s to them. 🍻 -Muddy York Brewing Today, the spotlight is on Muddy York Brewing Co, a family-owned haven of great beers since 2013, nestled on 22 Cranfield Rd, Toronto.​ This award-winning brewery caters to folks who enjoy exquisite dining, and amazing local beer. In their cozy taproom, friendly and knowledgeable staff are your guides to a world of delicious brews. And if you're chasing awards, look no further than the multi-award winning Haberdasher Hefeweizen, a true crowd-pleaser gracing top-notch beer bars across the city. Muddy York also won the title Brewery of The Year 2023 at the Canadian Brewing Awards! 🍺 Visit Muddy York Brewing for a fantastic time, great beers, and join us in raising a glass to the art of brewing done right. -Beau’s Brewery Enter a world of flavor at Beau's Brewery, where a dozen distinct brews invite beer connoisseurs to take part in a memorable tasting experience. Enjoy a variety of selections at the brewery's open-concept taproom, including fan-favorite classics and special taproom-only offerings. Beau’s Brewery is located at 10 Terry Fox, Vankleek Hill, Ontario. Free tastings, 5 oz. sample flights, and the joy of beer by the glass will immerse you in their tasting adventure. Beau's offers a laid-back atmosphere for beer connoisseurs, whether you're within or out in the sun in their lovely outside seating area. The taproom offers more than just beer; you can experience and tour their incredible 15-barrel brewhouse. ​ Whether you're a solo explorer or with a group of friends, Beau's promises an amazing experience. 🍻 -Wellington Brewery Situated on 950 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, Wellington Brewery has been a pioneer in Canada's craft beer market since 1985, famous for its award-winning brews that are distinguished by quality, sustainability, and originality. Their relationship to the neighborhood has been essential in the brewery's development over the last 35 years. They've raised over $27,000 in 2021 alone through collaborations, fundraiser brews, and philanthropic events. Queen of Craft, a Wellington Brewery program, showcases beer that fosters community. This group of beer-loving women not only conducts one-of-a-kind beer education programs, but they also donate to local organizations. Since 2013, their beer education has raised over $50,000 for Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis, with 100% of profits given to groups promoting women's wellness. While Wellington Brewery has changed throughout the years, garnering national and international acclaim, their love for making excellent, balanced beers remains steadfast. From classic English-style ales like Special Pale Ale and County Brown Ale to a diverse spectrum of small-batch and seasonal brews, Wellington Brewery continues to bring people together through the artistry of craft beer. Cheers to them! 🍻 -Stack Brewing Stack Brewing proudly carries the torch of its ancestors, notably Sudbury Brewing and Malting and Doran's, in the heart of Sudbury's historic brewing tradition. Stack Brewing contributes to the region's growth by producing new jobs in this booming industry, in addition to making outstanding brews, such as their renowned Shatter Cone, La Cloche, Nickel City, Saturday Night, Panache, and Valley Girl. Located at 947 Falconbridge, Sudbury, this craft brewery, steeped in Sudbury's historic brewing heritage, has not only matched Northern Ontario's high demand for premium craft beer, but has also expanded its reach, selling products throughout the province. Find them on tap at your favorite pub, on the shelves of local LCBOs, Beer Stores, grocery stores, or pay a visit to their awesome Sudbury location. Stack Brewing is a taste of Northern Ontario's finest. Join the craft beer journey that captures the essence of Northern Ontario's cool and unique spirit. 🍻 Wellington Brewery Situated on 950 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, Wellington Brewery has been a pioneer in Canada's craft beer market since 1985, famous for its award-winning brews that are distinguished by quality, sustainability, and originality. Their relationship to the neighborhood has been essential in the brewery's development over the last 35 years. They've raised over $27,000 in 2021 alone through collaborations, fundraiser brews, and philanthropic events. Queen of Craft, a Wellington Brewery program, showcases beer that fosters community. This group of beer-loving women not only conducts one-of-a-kind beer education programs, but they also donate to local organizations. Since 2013, their beer education has raised over $50,000 for Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis, with 100% of profits given to groups promoting women's wellness. While Wellington Brewery has changed throughout the years, garnering national and international acclaim, their love for making excellent, balanced beers remains steadfast. From classic English-style ales like Special Pale Ale and County Brown Ale to a diverse spectrum of small-batch and seasonal brews, Wellington Brewery continues to bring people together through the artistry of craft beer. Cheers to them! 🍻 -Stack Brewing Stack Brewing proudly carries the torch of its ancestors, notably Sudbury Brewing and Malting and Doran's, in the heart of Sudbury's historic brewing tradition. Stack Brewing contributes to the region's growth by producing new jobs in this booming industry, in addition to making outstanding brews, such as their renowned Shatter Cone, La Cloche, Nickel City, Saturday Night, Panache, and Valley Girl. Located at 947 Falconbridge, Sudbury, this craft brewery, steeped in Sudbury's historic brewing heritage, has not only matched Northern Ontario's high demand for premium craft beer, but has also expanded its reach, selling products throughout the province. Find them on tap at your favorite pub, on the shelves of local LCBOs, Beer Stores, grocery stores, or pay a visit to their awesome Sudbury location. Stack Brewing is a taste of Northern Ontario's finest. Join the craft beer journey that captures the essence of Northern Ontario's cool and unique spirit. 🍻 -Walkerville Brewery Nestled in the heart of Walkerville, Windsor, this brewery brings you handcrafted goodness in every sip. From go-to classics to the seasonal surprises and one-of-a-kind batches, the taps are always flowing with something unique interesting, and delicious. Using top-notch malted barley, hops, and pure water, Walkerville Brewery guarantees a fresh and flavorful experience for beer lovers across Ontario. No artificial stuff here, Walkerville brewery's batches are all about the good stuff, sans preservatives, flavors, or artificial colors. It's all about delivering premium, fresh handcrafted brews. But it's not just about the brews- Walkerville Brewery has a strong sense of community. Right in the middle of Walkerville, they bring people together with events, festivals, and fundraisers. Located at 25 Argyle Road, Windsor, Ontario, Walkerville Brewery is simply a must-visit. 🍺 -Meuse​ ​ In the heart of Norfolk County, Meuse Brewing Company (@meusebrewing) is a beautiful, rustic haven – a farmhouse brewery sprawled across 25 acres. It's not just a brewery; it's a down-home market and farm where everyone can kick back and soak in the laid-back vibes of rural life. Nature, good company, and great brews—Meuse Brewing Company is all about that simple goodness, located at1903 Windham Road 3 Scotland, Ontario. 🥇 🥈 Their Minuit au Cerisier snagged gold as Flanders Red in the European Sour Ale category, and the Saison de la Meuse bagged silver as Saison in the Belgian Strong Ale category, holding its own for three years straight! Brewing on their own stunning organic farm, Meuse goes the extra mile, using their own homegrown barley and hops. It's a farm-to-glass journey that adds a personal touch to every delicious brew. 🍃 -Spark Beer In the heart of Ottawa’s Chinatown, step into Spark Beer Brewery and Pizzeria-, where brewing is an art form that combines modern techniques with a touch of classic Belgian flair. Their sour beers are the heart of their craft, aging for over four months. Oak barrel and foeder soak for four to eighteen months, only hitting the taps when they're truly ready. Mississippi Mill Malting is the go-to for malts, giving these beers their distinctive character. And when it comes to hops, the best Cascade and Centennial varieties are sourced from Houblons Pontiac to craft some crowd-favorite beers. In addition, Spark Beer delivers mouthwatering stone-fired pizzas that perfectly complement the brews. 🍺 Stop by Spark Beer and Pizza, located 702 Somerset Street W, Ottawa, for delicious comfort food and beer. -Full Beard Brewing With their love for good beer and a strong desire to brew a product that beer lovers everywhere could enjoy; Full Beard Brewing’s passionate owners commenced a journey that resulted in a craft brewery that now continuously services over 80 licensed accounts as well as multiple private functions each month. Driven by a genuine love for excellent beer and a commitment to creating a product that resonates with beer enthusiasts worldwide, the dedicated owners of Full Beard Brewing embarked on a journey to establish a unique craft brewery. Today, they proudly serve over 80 licensed accounts and host numerous private functions every month. Full Beard Brewing has made their mark by canning five of their standout beers, offering a diverse range of over 12 different brews available in cans, growlers, kegs, and by the glass in the brewery's tasting room. The inviting atmosphere is complemented by a team of friendly and knowledgeable staff. Visit Full Beard Brewing (@fullbeardbrewing) at 219 Wilson Ave, Timmins, Ontario, for an amazing and unique experience. -- Brauwerk Hoffman Brewer Todd Hoffman opted to go outside the box during the Covid-related beer shortage in Western Quebec. He used locally produced products and cooperated with a group of proud community producers, adopting a community-centric approach. The result? Mouth-watering brews blended with the rich flavors of the local community. Sample the artisan beers in the tasting room or unwind on the patio while enjoying a delectable dinner made with regional Pontiac ingredients. Their retail shop is now open on demand, ensuring you can grab your favorite brews whenever the craving hits. 🍁🍻 Visit Brauwerk Hoffman Brewery (@brauwerkhoffman) for an exciting journey into local flavors. -Mascot Brewery Being the only black-owned Craft brewery in Canada, Mascot understands the feeling of being on the outside. Instead of fitting into a craft beer scene that lacks diversity, the owners decided to do things their own way. Mascot’s self-proclaimed “chill craft” is about acknowledging that people want to connect, enjoy good beer, and have a great time. Their goal is to create an inclusive and diverse community of craft beer lovers, breaking down the barriers that might make people feel out of place in the craft beer world. Their beers are delightful and their patio is ideal for a summer day. The environment is modern and current, and their pub food is superb. Markets, music events, and festivals are a staple for Mascot. @mascotbrewery is a must-visit for any craft beer lover in Toronto! 🍺 -Gillingham Brewing Company Nestled in the heart of Prince Edward County, Gillingham Brewing Company (@gillinghambrewing) is a down-to-earth family-owned brewery set amidst the beauty of wine country. Located on the family vineyard, which also houses the renowned Domaine Darius winery, this beautiful brewery offers a unique experience amidst acres of vineyards. Their outdoor beer garden, paired with a cozy fire pit, offers a laid-back atmosphere. With a view stretching across the vineyard, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a variety of brews inspired by global flavors. Gillingham Brewing features a rotating tap lineup, ensuring each visit unfolds new and distinct beer experiences, from IPAs and Ales to Lagers and Porters. The brewery's design takes inspiration from the industrial age, keeping things simple yet detailed – a nod to the past when craftsmanship mattered. It's all about a relaxed atmosphere, quality brews, and a touch of history. So if you're in Prince Edward County and fancy a brew in a family-friendly, wholesome setting with a view, Gillingham Brewing is definitely worth a visit. -Gateway City Brewery Tucked away on the west end of North Bay, Gateway City Brewery (@gatewaycitybrewery) is more than just a brewery; it's a vibe for everyone. As an award-winning brewery, they've mastered the art of creating interesting and approachable beers & hard seltzers, spreading the North Bay pride throughout Ontario. Founded by three friends – Jeff Hodge, Mike Perreault, and Sully Sullivan – with a shared passion for craft beer and community support, Gateway City Brewery embodies the spirit of North Bay. Adding to the mix is John "The Brewer" Palko, who journeyed from southern Ontario to become the head brewer at Jasper Brewing Co. in Alberta before joining the team. The taproom is the heart of the action, offering beer by-the-glass or flights for those keen on sampling the diverse lineup. And the fun doesn't stop there – pinball machines, arcade games, and other enjoyable activities await! Visit them at 490 Gormanville Rd. Unit B, North Bay, and enjoy the Gateway City Brewery experience! -- Breakwall Brewing Company Opening its doors in 2018, Breakwall Brewing Company (@breakwallbrewery) has been a hub for community bonding, bringing people together with locally crafted beer and food. Their rotating tap list showcases a variety of well-balanced and flavorful beers, carefully designed with a focus on quality ingredients and a careful brewing process. From India pale ales to lagers, British styles, and dark beers, the lineup always has something unique to offer. When you step inside their kitchen, you'll find a haven of comfort food such as fried chicken, burgers, pizza, and regional delicacies such as the Beef on Weck. Head on over to Breakwall Brewing at 46 Clarence Street, Port Colborne, Ontario, for a blend of great brews, delectable food, and a welcoming community atmosphere. -Shacklands Brewing From the get-go, Shacklands has kept things simple: create a space where folks can kick back, enjoy a lineup of incredible, award-winning beers, vibe to tunes, and explore a quirky collection of vintage treasures on the "shelf of everything." It's more than a brewery; it's a local hub that values the unique voices in the community. Shacklands Brewing has bagged quite a few awards for their diverse brews that keep everyone coming back for more. The regular open mic and karaoke nights are a standard, making it more than just a place to grab a drink. For a laid-back time filled with fantastic beer, fun events, and good vibes, visit Shacklands Brewing at 100 Symes Road, Toronto.