over 200 years old and that a doctor, a miller, and even a bootlegger lived there in days gone by. The readers would love to hear the history of the farm. AB : The actual farm house is over 200 years old and has a rich history of owners, for sure. It’s very representative of Nova Scotia’s history. My parents purchased it in the 1960s. I grew up here. So, two generations have been gradually breathing new life into the property for over 50 years by modernizing the home and now us, developing the business to support a family. CB: I’m very proud that my grandparents renovated the home and worked the land from basically nothing. We moved to the farm when my grandparents moved to Comox, BC in 2004 to escape the Nova Scotian winters. They were both in their 80s and still working hard in the gardens every single day from sun up to sun down– they needed the break! I then saw my parents do the same. They created a beautiful home, bit by bit, working the land, planting crops and beginning this self-sustainable life, from sun up to sun down, again. The brewery was built and I see the future of the farm now, the community it’;s bringing together, and the possibilities of future ventures. I’d like to discuss that community that Meander River Farm & Brewery is bringing together shortly here, Campbell, but first, Alan, leaving aside the role of pro- viders you and your wife shared, what inspired you to
open the brewery in 2013? AB: Well, we had an interest in the brewing industry for many years – and have brewed beer and wine as a hobby since university days. That dream was rekindled when we started growing hops on the farm and subsequently spending more time with craft brewers – Garrison Brewery in particular – and marketing our crop to them. The industry was gaining momentum and the timing seemed right for it to happen. So we went for it. “Our cider is very crisp and dry. No sugar is added, leaving the cider to become a true expression of the local apples. We like the apples from different seasons and blends to express themselves, which gives us a slightly different product with an expression of terroir each time.” CB: The farm has always been a part of the family and the family brand really drives our business direction because we all have different experience and skills that we bring to the table. Now, working to improve and expand it has brought us closer together. Brenda is our master gardener, expanding on our outdoor, garden and all creative matters.
5
AUGUST 2017 • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker