
Crafting Community: The Story Behind Bitter Sisters Brewery
In the heart of Calgary, where community spirit thrives amidst challenges, Bitter Sisters Brewing shines as a beacon of family, connection, and craft beer. Founded by the dynamic sister duo, Tracy and Jill Johnson, this brewery is more than just a spot for cold drinks; it’s a haven for families, friends, and neighbors to gather and share life’s moments.
A Vision of Togetherness
Bitter Sisters Brewery was born out of a necessity for a place that mirrored the sisters’ values as parents and craft beer aficionados. After deciding to close their previous venture, the Atlantic Trap and Gill, they embarked on this new journey with a clear mission: to create a welcoming taproom that fosters relationships. The brewery’s atmosphere exudes warmth, inviting everyone from craft beer enthusiasts to families with children.
As a testament to their commitment to community, the brewery has introduced a donation libation program. With every pint sold, a portion goes towards supporting local charities, reinforcing their connection to the neighborhood and ensuring that they give back to those in need.
Craft Beer for Every Palate
What sets Bitter Sisters Brewery apart is its diverse selection of approachable beers crafted to satisfy varying tastes. The lineup includes delightful options like “Tarty Cousin Sue,” a refreshing cranberry-raspberry wheat beer, and the hop-forward “Dank Frank NEPA.” These offerings allow both seasoned craft beer drinkers and newcomers to find something they love. Each beer is meticulously paired with the food offerings from Chef Walter Malowany, who infuses his culinary expertise into every dish.
The rotating menu features mouthwatering pairings like the Nashville Chicken Sandwich with the Second Chance IPA and a cheesy fondue dish that complements the Uncle Philsner Pilsner. This attention to detail not only enhances the dining experience but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the craft of brewing.
Resilience Amidst Challenges
Since its opening in early 2020, Bitter Sisters, like many small businesses, has navigated an array of challenges posed by the pandemic, inflation, and rising operational costs. However, resilience is woven into the fabric of its operation. The Johnson sisters have embraced these difficulties as opportunities to connect more deeply with their community, adapting their strategies and offerings to meet the evolving needs of their patrons.
As they plan their next steps, including expanding their canned products into liquor stores, they prioritize maintaining the heart of the business—the taproom itself.
Future of Family-Centric Brewing
The future looks promising for Bitter Sisters Brewing. The sisters envision growth and expansion while keeping their commitment to community involvement at the forefront. They are passionate about evolving their product line and reaching more customers while ensuring that the taproom remains a central hub for local gatherings.
As they implement these changes, they aim to deepen their community ties and continue providing a safe, engaging place for people to connect over good food and exceptional craft beer.
Why Bitter Sisters Brewing Matters
Bitter Sisters Brewery embodies the spirit of Calgary—a place where relationships are nurtured and communities are strengthened over a shared love of craft beer. This story is emblematic of what local businesses can achieve through resilience, passion, and a profound connection to their neighborhoods.
For those looking to experience this unique blend of community and craft beer, visit Bitter Sisters at 510 Heritage Dr. SW. Join Tracy and Jill in their journey and support local initiatives that make the community a better place for everyone.
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