If there’s anything longer than this province’s gold rush history, it’s our list of exceptional craft breweries and wineries. When the gold prospectors, miners and settlers rushed to this region beginning in the 1850s, their watering holes undoubtedly looked quite different than the ones we visit today, but the act of sharing stories and laughs whilst enjoying a beer, wine or cider hasn’t changed. This region’s unique mix of landscapes and climates can largely be thanked for the vast variety of boozy beverages we get to enjoy. Even though the majority of us that travel the Gold Rush Trail now are not prospecting for gold, we are often searching for wholesome experiences and local tastes, and just like the gold in centuries past, the Gold Rush Trail offers it in plenty!
Here’s a list of some of our favourite breweries and wineries. Cheers!
Fort Berens, Lillooet
Founded in 2009, Fort Berens Estate Winery is a true pioneering story. After moving from the Netherlands to fulfill their dream of opening a winery in Canada, the owners fell in love with the Lillooet valley for its rugged and raw landscape. Despite the lack of grapes here when they made the move, today they have 38 acres of vineyards and a spectacular winery facility to showcase their award-winning wines. Enjoy their scenic patio with a local farm-to-table menu in the summertime or visit their tasting room year-round. To learn more, watch our The story of Fort Berens Estate Winery Gold Rush Trail storyteller episode.
Lillooet Cider Co., Lillooet
Located at Fort Berens Estate Winery, Lillooet Cider Co. is a new local cidery offering small-batch apple and apricot ciders. This region is known for its incredible fruit and Lillooet Cider Co. is working with local orchards to take advantage of this. While they don’t currently have a tasting room, you can visit their site to pre-order 2023’s creations.
Lillooet Brewing Company, Lillooet
The newest brewery on our list, Lillooet Brewing Company is a brand new establishment that is sure to soon be a favourite. What makes this brewery unique is that they are focusing entirely on ingredient origins. They aim to empower Canadian farmers, craftspeople, wild foragers, beekeepers, and others who source food from the land to provide them with their inspiration to make localized and organic beer. Not only that but the beer names are all inspired by Lillooet’s wildlife!
Cliff & Gorge, Lillooet
Just over 20 minutes from Lillooet, hidden between, you guessed it – cliffs and gorges, rests Cliff & Gorge Vineyards. This winery offers completely natural and unadulterated wines, meaning that they let the land decide and alter the fantastic flavours and aromas you’ll experience. Loved for their incredible service, try a picnic-style tasting on their beautiful property amidst the valley.
Cask & Cleaver, 100 Mile House
While the breweries do get a bit more sparse out this way, the quality doesn’t thanks to Cask & Cleaver in 100 Mile House. With a Nordic/Viking-inspired theme, this relaxed tasting room and restaurant is perfect if you’re travelling through the area or staying directly in town. In terms of drinks, they offer delicious small-batch craft beer, along with BC wines, and cider.
Fox Mountain Brewing Co., Williams Lake
If you’re looking for craft beer brewed in the heart of Cariboo Country, Fox Mountain Brewing Co. is the place for you. The brewery features a laid-back west coast design and a spacious patio. With German-influenced beers and a mostly Mexican-inspired cuisine, this new Williams Lake watering hole is a must-stop if you’re in the area.
Barkerville Brewing Co., Quesnel
With its name inspiration coming from Barkerville Historic Town & Park and the area’s legendary gold prospector, Billy Barker, Barkerville Brewing Co. in Quesnel is well worth the drive north. An entirely gold rush-themed brewery, from the decor to the beer names and even the local ingredients, this brewery not only provides visitors with yummy beer and a welcoming atmosphere, but also gives a taste of this region’s gold rush history. Their liquid gold has even won four Canadian Brewing Awards and six BC Beer Awards since opening in 2014.
So there you have it, a 14-pack of liquid gold stops to add to your Gold Rush Trail road trip. Plan your trip at goldrushtrail.ca/journey and add these to your checklist!