Crafting a Life in Brewing: The Journey of Two Passionate Beer Enthusiasts
Emily Kokonas and Justin Larter are living embodiments of the vibrant world of craft beer. Introduced to one another through their studies at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) in Langley, their shared love for brewing has become the cornerstone of both their personal and professional lives. Residing in Delta, Emily and Justin not only nurture their brewing careers but also share a home with two affectionate feline companions, Mac and Archie.
KPU’s Brewing & Brewery Operations program, shaped in partnership with the BC Craft Brewers Guild, is notable for its comprehensive approach to brewing education. After meeting on the very first day of class, Emily and Justin’s journey together blossomed both as academic partners and later in life as a couple after graduation.
From Classroom Collaboration to Brewing Excellence
Today, Emily Kokonas is making waves as the lead brewer at Four Winds Beach House & Brewing in Delta. Both an educator and a practitioner, she is committed to nurturing the future of brewing while crafting exceptional beers. Her partner in both life and passion, Justin Larter, serves as the head brewer at Barnside Brewing Co., also located in Delta. Their expertise and zeal for quality beer production have become an integral part of Delta’s growing brewery landscape.
The couple’s shared passion for brewing often extends into their home life, though they both prioritize balance and personal enrichment outside of their work. Emily furthers her love for fermenting by exploring culinary arts and gardening, while Justin expresses his creativity through music, enhancing his skills with stringed instruments.
Discovering Beer and Leaving a Brew-tiful Mark
Emily’s brewing journey began serendipitously during a working holiday in Australia, where her initial interest in science melded with her growing appreciation for beer. A detour through a draught-system maintenance course unexpectedly cemented her fascination with the art and science of brewing. Returning to Canada, Emily found her way to KPU and a future brimming with fermentation adventures.
For Justin, a background in biology set the stage for his transition into the world of brewing. Working in the heart of Kelowna’s wine country piqued his interest in beverage fermentation, leading him down the path to the then-burgeoning craft beer movement—a decision that has clearly paid dividends for his career.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Growth in Delta
The global pandemic reshaped the brewing industry as much as it did other facets of life. Emily and Justin, however, navigated these turbulent times by focusing on their craft and innovation. While COVID-19 initially disrupted Emily’s budding career, it also allowed her to gain invaluable experience at Bakery Brewing.
Delta’s brewing scene is thriving, with top-tier establishments like Four Winds Beach House and Barnside Brewing Co. consistently delivering exceptional craft beers. Emily and Justin are both excited to be part of this dynamic hub, each contributing their unique skills and creativity to crafting memorable beer experiences.
The Love of Lager and Emerging Trends
When it comes to personal beer preferences, Emily and Justin share a fondness for lagers. Emily’s taste leans towards the clean, balanced profiles of pilsners, with Archetype at Beach House being a standout. Justin, on the other hand, enjoys the delicate and refined qualities of lagerbier, celebrating every sip of this traditional style.
Old-world lagers and industry-wide appreciation for lower-alcohol beers are trends they both embrace, reflecting a broader consumer interest in quality and sessionability. These trends not only speak to shifting preferences but also to a wider opportunity for creative experimentation in brewing.
Innovative Future Brews on the Horizon
Looking forward, Emily is eagerly anticipating the release of cider and wine spritzes from Four Winds Beach House, projects that merge her brewing expertise with a passion for other fermented beverages. This pilot brewery continues to push the envelope and explore new horizons in beverage crafting.
Justin remains committed to deepening the connection between Barnside Brewing Co. and its local terroir, focusing on farm-grown ingredients. Their mission is simple: keep innovating while staying grounded in quality, ensuring each glass serves as a testament to their combined dedication to the craft.
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