This is our chance to get to know someone better who is working in the B.C. craft beer industry.
1. Who are you?
Hey hi! My name is Allan. I have a BSc in Microbiology so I guess I'm a bit of a nerd. I love to be outside, whether it's running along the seawall or biking around the city. I consume all things books, music, and television. Also co-parent to one rambunctious and adorable cat, Mini.
2. What do you do?
I'm currently a brewer at Andina Brewing Co. which means that I do a little bit of everything around the brewery. From brewing wort to packaging the beer and all the little things in between. It can be exhausting work but to enjoy a glass of beer at the end of the day—knowing that I had a hand in each step along the way—makes it all worth it.
3. What is your biggest pet peeve about the industry?
Consumers who are quick to write off a beer because the style is "boring" or isn't something they would typically drink. I don't care what anyone says, keller pilsners are my JAM.
4. What do you love most about working in the industry?
It feels like such a cliché at this point, but I really do admire the sense of community that is so specific to breweries in Vancouver. Throughout my brief time in the industry, I've met so many incredible and knowledgeable people. Despite being in an industry that is so saturated and competitive, it's refreshing to be able to share tips and techniques so openly with one another. At the end of the day, we're all just doing the same thing—trying our best to make great beer and building a better, more sustainable and inclusive craft beer industry.
5. What is your favourite beer right now?
I recently went out and grabbed a 4-pack of my favourite beer from last summer, Field Theory from Dageraad. To no surprise, the beer still slaps. Floral and grassy on the nose, light and crisp body with the peppery phenolics adding just a bit of complexity. Delicious.
6. What local charity should we be paying attention to?
Anti-Asian hate crimes have risen dramatically in the past year, with women and elderly often the ones being targeted. Now, more than ever, it is important that we protect the most vulnerable in our communities. Yarrow Intergenerational Society (@yarrowsociety) has been doing amazing work, connecting with and supporting the senior community in Chinatown and the Downtown Eastside.
Follow Allan on Instagram!