Introduction

Freehold Brewing is built on nostalgia for the pioneering age, but also a commitment to the perseverance and dedication that made pioneering a success. Founded in 2016 by Matt James and Tavis Agnew, Freehold continues its mission to sing the praises of the Alberta spirit by creating craft beer. Nine different styles have been painstakingly crafted at Freehold and they run the gamut of beers’ best styles. The spirit they honour informs their brewing style: they bring a real-world, hands-on approach into the brewing plant. Although they’re a young group in Alberta, they’ve seen a quick-growing audience and rising reputation for their beers. The Keychain Dry-Hopped Lager is designed in honour of the sturdy keychain. An everyday carry item that made it manageable to be a functioning grown-up before smart-phones and web got clever for us. Fruit notes and sharp citrus on a lager base. Serves well at 8°C and can stay in the cooler up to six months.

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How it looks

Pours a golden colour with a clear body and light carbonation. A puffy head of white foam out of the can calms down to a thin cap of bubbles.

How it smells

On the bottom of the aroma is a malty sharpness, but on top is a delicate layer of blueberry and lemon aroma that is easy to lose. Slow in hales will get you an awesome, slightly sweet smell.

How it tastes

The flavours land all at once and can be tricky to pick up the subtleties. A dry malt and slight bitterness can disguise the delicate flavour of blueberries and citrus - let it warm slightly on the tongue for a good taste. The flavour collapses into a slightly sweet, slightly bitter vague hop-flavour. Smooth mouthfeel and lemon finish.

Recommended food pairing

While a lager it has a lot of an IPA to it. But it’s more delicate, so pair it with a dish that’s spicy but doesn’t own your palate.