A couple of beer news tidbits today to get you up to date:

Little Guy Beer Dinner: Little Guy Liquor in Sherwood Park has quickly proved itself to be a compact version of Sherbrooke, with a focused but impressive selection of quality beer. Now they are trying their hand a a beer dinner. Partnering with Cafe Haven, an independent bistro known for its commitment to local fare, they are organizing a beer dinner, hosted by me, on March 2. The theme is English Ales, and we have selected a range of quality beer carefully paired with a uniquely designed meal from the folks of Cafe Haven. Tickets are $6o, all inclusive (available at Little Guy Liquor). If you live in the Park or Southeast Edmonton, you probably don’t want to miss this.

$ell Out $tout: Half Pints has just announced that February 26 will be the release date for their annual killer stout, which is aged in whiskey barrels for six months to give it a wonderfully complex body and aroma. Release date may be a stretch, as the beer sold out in 90 minutes last year. Doors open at the brewery at 9:00 am, the line up well before that.

Big Bottle Series: After many months of rumours, Alley Kat has confirmed that due to the success of its 15th Anniversary series last year, it is launching a new line of one-time beer. They are calling it the Big Bottle Series, and like its predecessor, will be quite limited in quantity. One batch only will be made of each beer, to be sold in 650 ml bottles. The first one is to be Three Bears Oatmeal Stout and will be released later this month. Details to be released soon.

Maibock: Saskatoon’s Paddock Wood’s next seasonal will be a return of its Maibock, which last time proved to be a fantastic version of the style. Its projected release is March 15. No word yet on whether it makes it out of Saskatchewan.