Canadian Breweries History: Flying Monkeys Craft Brew
In a bold marketing move, Barrie's only micro-brewery has changed its handle.
Robert Simpson Brewery, located on Dunlop Street East, has become Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery.
Head honcho Peter Chiodo, who also doubles as the brewer, decided it was time for a change.
"With over 900 brands at the Beer Store, we needed a name that stuck out, was fun and memorable, and, most importantly, described the more unique beers we’ve started to brew," he said, while standing in the brewing area overlooking Kempenfelt Bay.
"We wanted to rethink our image to more closely describe the culture of the brewery: who we are and what kind of beer we like to brew," he said, adding the company's recent addition is the new brew called Hoptical Illusion Almost Pale Ale.
"We slam a ton of hops in it. It's a beer I make for me. It's a very west-coast style of beer, with Amarillo and cascade hops," he said.
Flying Monkeys' other products include AntiGravity Light Ale, introduced last year, and Confederation Amber Ale, which has been the mainstay of the brewery since it opened in December 2004.
While it may have a new, and slightly unorthodox name, the brewery is still owned by the same three families that created it.
They were brainstorming ideas for the Anti-Gravity beer and flying monkeys was on the short list. The name originally comes from the Wizard of Oz, but the threat has found its way into the brewhouse.
The Robert Simpson Confederation Ale will continue to be brewed.
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