This week, Calgary’s Dandy Brewing Company announced an exciting virtual collaboration with U.K. brewery Full Circle Brew Co. that took place over the last year, which saw the two breweries team up to launch a new I.P.A.
Named after a WWII fighter command bunker in Newcastle, U.K., the Bunker 13 I.P.A. pays homage to a connection between Calgary and Newcastle that dates back roughly 80 years. During WWII, bomber and fighter pilots from the Commonwealth Training Program would train together throughout various parts of southern Alberta.
“Graeme from Full Circle Brew Co, is from Alberta and reached out last spring about doing something together,” says Dandy Brewing co-founder Benjamin Leon. “We were super excited (myself especially as Newcastle holds a special place in my heart) to work with a brewery in a whole other part of the world so jumped at the chance. With the ups and downs of lockdowns in both the U.K. and Alberta it was bumped around a few times, and we’re just excited to get the beer out!”
The Bunker 13 is a highly aromatic I.P.A. with a balanced blend of tropical fruits, citrus, and sweet malt. The hoppiness from the mixed fermentation provides an assertive but equitable tartness through the combination of earthy and clean fruit notes.
To celebrate their intercontinental achievement, Dandy and Full Circle will be hosting a virtual online tasting event on March 13. Canadian participants will be able to virtually visit both breweries, mingle with other beer-enthusiasts, and partake in an interactive presentation with brewery staff from either side of the pond. Those lucky enough to be located in close proximity to the Calgary brewery will also get a chance to enjoy beer tasting and a special pairing snack prepared by chef Merritt Gordon.
A portion of the event’s proceeds will also be donated to The Hanger Flight Museum and their Treat the Trusses campaign to help maintain the 80-year-old historical landmark. More details regarding ticket information will be revealed on Dandy Brewing's Instagram account over the coming weeks.
The Bunker 13 I.P.A. will be available to purchase in stores and online beginning February 26.
