Feature: Five LCBO beer shopping tips

1. Mix and match your own six pack

At most LCBO locations, you can make your own six packs by grabbing single bottles from any open-top six pack (but not from a sealed box). Note that not all stores allow this – it’s managerial discretion.

2. Don’t like it? Return it.

The LCBO will refund or exchange opened products. If you don’t like a beer or feel its gone bad, bring it back with the receipt and some of the contents left.

3. Go for the can

Some LCBO locations stock a beer in both can and bottle format (think beers from Steam Whistle, Mill St., Muskoka, etc.) – Go for the canned option when possible; Cans have a superior seal and completely block out light fending off beer’s worst enemies – oxygen and light.

4. The Fridge

If you have the option, always buy beer from LCBO locations with a fridge. Since most craft beer is unpasteurized, the cold storage maintains its freshness longer than beer sitting at room temperature.

5. Be your own sales rep

You can advocate at the LCBO for your favourite brewery – ask your store manager to bring in a beer that isn’t currently available at your LCBO location (it does have to be in the LCBO’s system).