If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ve probably savored the rich flavors of a Stella Artois or the refreshing taste of a Corona on a hot summer day. You might have even bragged about your penchant for imported beers. But what if we told you that your favorite “imported” beer might not have traveled as far as you think?

The Journey of a “Global” Beer

Let’s start with Stella Artois and Corona. These iconic beers, originally from Belgium and Mexico respectively, have found a new home in London, Ontario. Yes, you read that right! According to a CBC News article, the Labatt Brewery in London is now the production hub for these beers for the Ontario market. So, the next time you sip on a Stella or a Corona, remember, it’s as Canadian as maple syrup!

The Case of the Disguised Ale

Moving on to the popular Blue Moon Belgian Wheat Ale. This American beer is a doppelganger of Rickard’s White, a beer that has been quenching the thirst of Canadians since 2006. The beers are so identical that Americans buying Blue Moon often find their bottles labeled with “Blue Moon Brewing Co. Toronto, Ontario/Montreal Quebec” at the Molson breweries. So, if you’re a fan of Blue Moon, you’ve been enjoying a Canadian brew all along!

The German-Canadian Connection

Löwenbrau and its Löwenbrau Radler, the famous German beers, also have a Canadian connection. They were brewed in Canada between 1999 and 2002, then returned to Germany until 2014, when Labatt received the Löwenbrau beer rights again. So, if you’ve been enjoying a Löwenbrau recently, it’s more Canadian than German!

The Local Heroes

And let’s not forget about the beers that are proudly Canadian. Anheuser-Busch’s Budweiser, Bud Light, and other sister beers are brewed at the Labatt Breweries throughout Canada. Similarly, Coors Light and Coors Altitude are brewed at Molson facilities throughout Canada. Even the Goose Island Goose IPA, originally a Chicago beer, is now produced at the Labatt facilities.

The Japanese Beer with a Canadian Passport

Lastly, we have Sapporo Lager, the most famous Japanese beer in the world. Surprise, surprise! It’s brewed at Sleeman’s Brewery in Guelph, Ontario. So, the next time you’re savoring a Sapporo, remember, it’s as Canadian as a hockey game on a frozen pond!

The Bottom Line

In the world of beer, things aren’t always as they seem. That “imported” beer you’re enjoying might just be a local hero in disguise. But no matter where your beer is brewed, one thing is certain: it’s the taste that matters. So, here’s to good beer, no matter where it calls home. Cheers!