If you’re a fan of craft beer, local stories, or road trip-worthy destinations, you’ll want to put Origin Malting & Brewing Co. in Strathmore, Alberta, on your radar. Tucked just 45 minutes east of Calgary, this taproom and brewery is doing something most breweries only dream about. They’re not just making beer, they’re growing it. Origin is one of the few breweries in Canada that fully malt its own barley, sourced directly from its fifth-generation family farm. That means when they say farm to glass, they mean every single step.
The Hilton family has been farming in the Strathmore area since 1910. What began as a traditional grain operation has grown into one of Alberta’s most innovative agri-businesses. In 2017, they launched Origin Malting & Brewing with the goal of showing people exactly where their beer comes from and why that matters. Instead of shipping their barley off to big processors, they built their own malthouse and began producing craft malt on-site. That malt then goes straight into the brewhouse, where it becomes beer, which is then poured in the taproom just a few feet away. It’s a true grain-to-glass operation, and one of only a few like it in the entire country.
For those unfamiliar with malting, it’s a key part of the brewing process that involves soaking, germinating, and drying barley to activate enzymes and prepare it for fermentation. Most breweries buy malt from large suppliers, but Origin wanted full control over both the quality and the story behind their ingredients. Because their barley never leaves the property, there’s no guessing where it came from or how it was processed. The result is fresher, more consistent malt with traceability that beer lovers can feel good about. It also gives them the freedom to experiment with small batches, different roast levels, and custom blends, which shows up in the variety and depth of their beer lineup.
The taproom itself is a comfortable and welcoming space that overlooks both the brewery and the malt house. You can literally see where the ingredients come from and how they’re made. The beer list features a rotating lineup of about a dozen options, ranging from crisp, clean lagers and hop-forward IPAs to malty red ales and seasonal specialties. They’ve even won awards for their brews, which is impressive for a relatively young operation. Every pint tells part of a bigger story, rooted in local soil and built on decades of agricultural experience.
If you’re hungry, Origin’s Strathmore location also serves up a Texas-style BBQ menu that pairs perfectly with whatever’s on tap. Think smoked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all slow-cooked on-site. It’s a casual, community-style setup with long tables, shaded patio seating, and friendly staff who are happy to talk beer, barley, or barbecue. The taproom regularly hosts live music, trivia nights, and other community events, making it more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s become a gathering place for locals and a destination for out-of-towners looking for something a little different.
They’re (many) loyal customers frequently highlight the warm atmosphere, top-tier beer, and genuine hospitality. Visitors appreciate that they can bring in outside food if they want, grab a flight to sample, or load up on cans and growlers to take home. The vibe is laid-back yet intentional, reflecting the care that goes into everything they do. According to the team at Origin, their goal was never just to open a brewery, but to build a transparent, sustainable model that brings people closer to what they’re drinking. That philosophy shines through in the quality of their beer, the friendliness of the space, and the pride they take in every pour.
In addition to the Strathmore location, Origin now also has a second taproom in Calgary, providing city dwellers with easier access to their beers without the drive. Still, there’s something special about visiting the original site where it all began. You can browse their merch, book a tour of the malt house, and see firsthand how a small-town farming operation transformed into one of Alberta’s most respected brewing ventures.
Origin Malting & Brewing Co. is located at 60 Spruce Park Drive in Strathmore. They’re open Tuesday through Saturday, with food service available on select days. Up-to-date hours and menus can be found on their website. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a BBQ fan, or just someone who loves supporting local businesses with a story, this place is worth a visit.
Origin isn’t trying to be trendy or flashy. They’re just doing things the right way. By growing, malting, brewing, and serving all in one place, they’ve created something rare and refreshing. It’s Alberta beer at its most honest, and a reminder that sometimes the best things are still made close to home.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
