Straight to the Pint taps those on the frontlines of our booming local craft-beer industry for stories about biggest brewing successes, dream vacation spots, and which brand was always in the family fridge.

Who are you

My name is Brent Mills and I am the brewmaster and production manager of Four Winds Brewing in Delta, B.C.

Your dad’s favourite beer

Growing up, I remember my dad bringing home big brown bottles of beer that I was hoping were root beer, but it turned out they were bombers of Shaftebury cream ale, which at that time was located just blocks from where we are now. Nowadays, I can usually find his cup filled with FW IPA.

First go-to brand

The brewery I have probably given the most money to would be Pilsner Urquell. While planning and building our brewery I would always have more than a couple in my fridge.

Life-changing beer

The beer that first confused the hell out of me and quickly turned into a desire to understand how it was made was Rodenbach Grand Cru. The sweetness, the vinegarlike acidity, and the mild funk—it was like nothing I’d ever imagined. I still love that beer!

Dream destination

I would have to say bike-packing through Europe with a heavy focus on Belgium, Germany, and the Czech Republic.

First beer brewed

The first beer I brewed was with my dad, Greg. It was a Shirley’s Nutbrown Ale from Dan’s Homebrewing Supplies. We brewed it at my parents’ place, on their stove. It turned out quite well, and needless to say planted a seed!

Crowning achievement

Without a doubt, opening up this brewery is the thing I am most proud of, but being awarded Canadian brewery of the year at the Canadian Brewing Awards earlier this year is a very close second.

I’d love to have a beer with

I’d love to have a few beers with Jean-Pierre van Roy of Cantillon (Brussels)!