Toronto’s five best microbrews

Big Wheel Deluxe Amber, Amsterdam Brewery Brewed on Bathurst, this Rubenesque Bavarian-style doppelbock (as fun to say as it is to drink) sports the vibrant orange hue of an Oompa Loompa and the yeasty aroma of Maltesers. $6.25. Watusi.

Hop Addict, County Durham Brewing Co. This Pickering-brewed, clear, golden ale is hoppier than a bullfrog on a hot plate. The ale’s easy-drinking style is best appreciated in the late afternoon or during a heated game of euchre. Pair a pint with smoked salmon. $6.10. The Ceili Cottage.

Amber Passion, The Three Brewers Do you know what passion tastes like? It tastes like beer, apparently. There is, indeed, a fresh maltiness and even a hint of ripe raspberry in this aromatic ale. Enjoy a pint with homemade flammenkuche (that’s sauceless pizza to you and me). $5.50. The Three Brewers.

Stratford Pilsner, Stratford Brewing Co. The golden hue, creamy head and peppered apricot flavours of this unpasteurized beer are almost sonnet worthy. It even has enviro-cred: mash left over from the brewing process is donated as feed for local farm animals. $6. Three Speed.

Arkell Best Bitter, Wellington Brewery This cask beer undergoes a secondary in-cask fermentation that results in a very light, naturally carbonated tipple. With a subtle sour cream flavour and an aroma that’s reminiscent of miso paste and grapefruit, the Arkell is an advanced beer for the serious imbiber. $7. The Queen and Beaver.