News release

NSLC Announces First Annual Beer Gala

Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation

The Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation (NSLC)will hold Nova Scotia's first annual NSLC's Beer Gala, featuring the finest specialty beers in the world.

The NSLC's Beer Gala -- Taste the Finest Specialty Beers in the World takes place Thursday, Aug. 19 at Casino Nova Scotia, in Halifax.

The walkabout-style tasting will spotlight more than 80 varieties of beers from 16 countries from around the world. More than 40 breweries will be represented at the gala.

An assortment of hors d'oeuvres, designed to maximize the true flavour of the products, will be offered. All products featured at the gala are available at NSLC stores in the Beers of the World section. There will be an on-site NSLC store at the gala which will give guests the opportunity to place purchase orders for beers featured at the event.

"The NSLC will be launching a new product line of beers to Nova Scotia at the Beer Gala -- trappist and abbey beers from Belgium," said John Strickey, vice president, merchandise and marketing for the NSLC. "This is another example of the NSLC's commitment to bring a wide selection of quality products to the consumers of Nova Scotia."

Trappist beers are brewed in monasteries under the supervision of the Cistercian monastic community. There are only six trappist breweries in the world and they are renowned for the unique products they have brewed over the years. Abbey beers are brewed by independent businesses under license of the monks.

Consumers who attend the gala will have an opportunity to meet Bill White, resident brewmaster for Oland Specialty Beer Company. In his quest to educate beer lovers about the history, tradition and quality of specialty beers, Bill has participated in beer festivals around the world.

Tickets are on sale now for $54.99, including tax, and are available through select NSLC stores or by calling the NSLC ticket line 1-866-605-8269.

In 2003, Nova Scotians purchased $206,291,000 of beer, representing 49.9 per cent of total gross sales revenue for the NSLC.

The Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation provides world class selection and service of beverage alcohol through the operation of 101 retail and eight agency stores throughout the province. By providing superior customer convenience and service, the NSLC returns substantial revenue to the provincial government, while ensuring the responsible enjoyment of beverage alcohol in Nova Scotia.