I was very anxious to travel to Canada after receiving an invitation to visit and tour the Sleeman Brewery, based in Guelph, Ont. This company traces its roots back to 1834 so I knew there would certainly be a history lesson to be had along with more than a few tasty samplings of some of the finest beers brewed anywhere on the planet including one my my favorites Sapporo Premium. Having recently visited a few of Sapporo's facilities in Japan I couldn't wait to see how this brewery stacked up against the ultra modern facilities across the pond. This facility still brews its tradition brands from recipes passed down from generation to generation and and still maintains the quality associated with the Sleeman name although there have been a number of upgrades in technology since Sapporo Holdings acquired them in 2006 ensuring the quality and taste remains consistent throughout the process. The company has retained the Sleeman name and continues to promote the brand using it notorious past in ad campaigns. The Sleeman family has a long and rich history in this area, playing a role not just in the brewing business but in the very fabric of Guelph society. They were involved in early transportation, sports and community growth, and contributed to political and social life." Sleeman history highlights: * John H. Sleeman opened the Stamford Spring Brewery on the Niagara River. He relocated to Guelph, where he established Silver Creek Brewery in 1851. * After taking over in 1867, Sleeman's son, George, doubled production and established outlets in 15 cities. * George became the first mayor of the new City of Guelph, and helped introduce hydroelectric power and pay for streetcar service. * Debts incurred after George single-handedly funded construction of the Guelph Railway Co. prompted a bank takeover of Silver Creek Brewery in 1902. * George and his wife, Sarah, opened rival Spring Bank Beverages in the same year. In 1906, he bought back Silver Creek Brewery and merged both businesses under management of his son Henry. * During Prohibition, Henry and his brothers smuggled alcohol for more than a decade. They were charged with smuggling and tax evasion in 1933. The family's brewing licence was suspended and the family barred from brewing for 50 years. * Nearly 50 years later, John W. Sleeman's Aunt Florian shared his grandfather's recipe book and family history and encouraged him to start brewing. Sleeman Brewing and Malting Co. Ltd. opened with the original recipes, bottles and trademarks in 1988. * The company has grown and acquired several firms over the years and became a national company with breweries and other facilities from coast to coast. * In 2006 Sapporo Brewery of Japan acquired Sleeman and continues to operate and promote the beers that started it all. read more