Tool Shed Brewing’s origin story isn’t terribly original. Two buddies decided to start making beer in their backyard. Eventually they turned their passion into a thriving business. They have been on the Calgary craft brew scene for about 10+ years. I can’t verify the exact origin date but it was somewhere around 2012.
The heart of Tool Shed Brewing’s offerings lies in their signature core beers People Skills, Red Rage, Star Creek and Flat Cap Stout. Adding to the mix are seasonal beers, small batch and non-alcoholic beer.
A couple years ago, they tapped into the non-alcohol beer craze and took their most popular beer – People Skills (and Red Rage) – and removed the alcohol.
My Review – Tool Shed Brewing’s No People’s Skills (431 ml, 100 calories, Less than .05% alcohol by volume)
Name Bling (name creativity) – Zero People Skills earns high praise for its clever name – weaving fun wordplay into its identity. It earns a solid five stars for its clever name game for many reasons. I absolutely love it. Way to go Tool Shed Brewing! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sip n’ Savour (Taste) – To be honest, I don’t even know what is defined as a “patio style ale.” Is that really even a thing? Anyway I am assuming it is a cross between lager and a pilsner because that’s what it tasted like to me. It’s smooth, light and refreshing. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wallet Wellness Index (Value for Money) – A four-pack rings in at about $12.99 at Co-op. Again much more wallet friendly than buying a beer or two at a pub. (Honestly unless it’s free, I likely won’t be giving out five stars.) ⭐⭐⭐
Label Love (Packaging/ Presentation) – Eye-catching, vibrant and imaginative. I love everything about the can design. Marketing works! The cans are colourful (green and yellow), creative and in your face awesome. There’s even a cute phrase “Hand crafted beer. Best Served with a Story. The Zero in red really stands out. I dare you not to smile when looking at this can. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall – It’s pretend spring in Calgary, and I am a fan of this pretend beer. It’s exactly what I would be reaching for after a long run or sitting on a patio. (I can’t wait to try the Zero Red Rage next.) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Where to buy: As you know, I buy all my non-alcoholic brews at the supermarket. Most liquor stores in Calgary should carry Zero People Skills. You can find Tool Shed Brewing at 801 30 St NE #9 in Calgary or check out other places to purchase at Find my beer.