With only a few months left at Western, it’s time to complete my London to-do list. Inspired by a keynote speech by Jorn Socquet, VP of Marketing for Labatt Breweries of Canada, I was determined to visit the hidden gem that is Labatt’s local manufacturing plant.
For only $10 admission, anyone of legal drinking age can book a tour lasting about two hours. Thanks to Jade, who’s a real estate agent by day and tour guide by night, my friend Akritee and I, learned a lot about the brewing process. Eager to emphasize how Labatt incorporates recycling and environmentally-friendly initiatives, Jade’s explanations brought new meaning to infotainment. Although it was frustrating to see one red-capped bottle fall under the radar of a worker whose responsibility is to notice recycled bottles with caps still on them, it was a fascinating tour overall.
After shivering outside, the highlight was relaxing on bar stools inside to sample 5 beers: Bud Light, Budweiser, Labatt Blue, Stella Artois and Alexander Keith’s. While we drank and chatted about our favourites, Jade showed us how to perform the Stella Artois pouring ritual. Before leaving to see vintage Labatt trucks in another room, Jade gave us all souvenir t-shirts too.
The brewery tour offers tourists and visitors great value, so it’s no wonder that it has a high rating on TripAdvisor. Reservations must be made in advance. To schedule a tour, call (519) 850-8687 or e-mail londontour@labatt.com.