Head Brewer Kody Rosentreter, owner Wes Greve and taproom manager Lisa Deleo celebrated North Basin Brewing’s grand opening Jan. 22 and 23, 2020. (Contributed)

Osoyoos microbrewery shows there’s more to the Okanagan than wine!

January 28, 2021 // by Jesse Day

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You likely know Osoyoos for its wineries, but now you can beat also that desert heat with a visit to the community’s first microbrewery.

North Basin Brewing Co. is locally owned and currently Osoyoos’ first and only microbrewery in town. The brewery and taproom aim to be a tribute to Osoyoos and the people that call it home, right down to the brewery’s name, says owner Wesley Greve.

Inspired by Osoyoos Lake, which has three basins – North, Central and South – the appropriately named brewery is located in the North Basin area.

Like many of the breweries in the region, North Basin is hoping to show that the Okanagan is more than just wine country.

“The Okanagan is one of British Columbia’s best-known wine regions, so we wanted to showcase that there’s more to this area than just wine,” Greve says. “We’ve called Osoyoos home for a long time and just wanted to create something that’s fun and laid back.”

North Basin Brewing Co. is also adjacent to Watermark Beach Resort. The resort’s manager Paul Scanlon is excited that guests will now have an on-site brewery to enjoy. “We’re very excited… what a perfect addition to the richness of the South Okanagan’s culinary scene and for Watermark Beach Resort’s guests,” Scanlon says.

Opening during the pandemic was not ideal but so far the brewery has made the best of it, Greve says. Everyone at the brewery is looking forward to welcoming the community and visitors once restrictions are lifted.

“Obviously COVID wasn’t supposed to be here when I started doing this but it’s been good so far, the locals have been really responsive and lots of people have been supporting us,” Greve says.

Currently, the microbrewery and taproom serve 10 beers, including a traditional IPA, pale ales, pilsners and Kölsch. The taproom is now open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.

Patrons can find a full beer menu and also order for curbside pick-up at northbasinbrewing.com.

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Please note that Provincial Health Protocols currently advise against travelling outside your region to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

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