Taking photos of inventive artisan brewers is all the more enjoyable when they have their delicious beer on offer.

This is Ryan Orr, who after working for more than 2 decades as a chef risked it all on the Sooke Oceanside Brewery (S.O.B).

In just over one year (13 months), he and brewmaster Garritt Lalond have already earned themselves 2nd place prize in the coveted British Columbia Beer Awards for their Renfrew Red Ale.

Ryan giving a tour of his modest brewing facilities

Apart from a ‘mishap’ in the first week when they had to shut down because they completely sold out of beer – they’ve been open nearly every day since.

Brewmaster Garritt of S.O.B.

During my two visits to the charming brewery, it was never quiet as local worshippers fill the space.

Visit them online at www.sookeoceansidebrewery.com (@sookebrew), or if you’re on Vancouver Island drop by and say hi.