New St. Catharines craft brewery opening to public on Wednesday

When Decew Falls Brewery opens its doors at 207 St. Paul St W in St. Catharines this Wednesday (August 17), they’re bringing a lot of local history with them.

Never mind their actual name, which is one of the most scenic falls in the Niagara area, the six beers they presently have in stock all have local historical significance.

During a chance meeting with Brewmaster James Woodruff, who graduated from the Niagara College Teaching Brewery, he told us the brewery did a dry run over the weekend (August 13-14) to make sure all was well with the kitchen and the taps. Everything went very smoothly in the soft opening, he acknowledged.

Certainly, one area resident was enthusiastic, posting. “We were honoured to attend their soft opening and it was a great time! The food is delicious with a unique menu, the ambiance is warm and friendly and the staff are superb!! Can’t wait to go back.”

All the names of Decew Falls’ six beers are connected to local St. Catharines history.

Decew Falls now becomes one of five craft breweries in St. Catharines, including The Merchant Ale House, Dragan Brewing, Lock St. Brewing and Cold Break Brewing, which is literally a one-minute walk away on St. Paul St. W.

And they are ready to meet the public. “Our beautiful, and extremely beer-focused space is officially opening to the public on Wednesday August 17, 2022! Come by for your lunch, after work beers, or weekend hangs! We can’t wait to see you!” they posted.

“We have wonderful food, great beer and an awesome selection of merchandise so you can rep Decew any where you go!”

As for those beer names, here’s a few. Their Merritt’s Wheat is named after William Hamilton Merritt, who was a military man, an entrepreneur, and a driving force behind the Welland Canal. “He supported many projects across the Niagara Region, helping shape what it is today.”

Their Morningstar Cream Ale is a nod to the Morningstar Mill, built in 1872, which used the force of the Decew Falls to grind grain into flour.

Their North Street Lager notes the street location was the final destination for the Underground Railroad. “Activist and Underground Railroad conductor, Harriett Tubman lived in St. Catharines. She resided and helped others in her North Street house become adjusted to their new lives.”

And finally, their Sir Isaac’s Pale Ale is a tribute to Sir Isaac Brock, a military leader in Canada who lead “with courage and integrity. He was often respected not just by his allies but by his foes as well.”

If you’re popping into Decew Falls Brewing, bring your hunger. Here’s their double cheeseburger and their Italian sandwich.

1. Decew Falls Brewing