Iqaluit's 1st microbrewery approval prompts naming contest

Many residents were excited to find out that Iqaluit is getting its own microbrewery and are already making their voices heard on names for Nunavut's newest signature product.

On Thursday morningthe Nunavut Liquor Licensing Board approved the Nunavut Brewing Company Limited's application to start producing and selling beer in the territory.

Sheldon Nimchukof the Nunavut Brewing Companysaid his group will hold a contest on social media to come up with original names for the beer products. He says they may make some beers with local berries.

• FEATURE Yellowknife'sBush Pilot's Brew Pub remembered for atmosphere, 'sometimes terrible' beer

Iqaluit locals had plenty of suggestions for Nimchuk and the Brewing Company.

"Culturally significant names would be nice, instead of tourist catch phrases like 'polar beer'," said resident Trevor Ploughman.

"An animal...maybe Nanook beer? That would be fun to ask for at the bar," said Amoudla Kootoo with a smile.

Many stressed the importance of choosing names that would reference Nunavut.

"Arctic Brew or something like that. It's got to reflect the North," said Emmanuel Morakinoyo.

"Something that reflects Inuit culture. Leave it up to the Inuit to decide," said Zachary Green.

The ideas were also flowing on social media. On Facebook, names like "True North," "Hoppy Husky," and "Nunabeer" were suggested, and plenty of people made their choicesknown viaTwitter.

"I don't know about a name," said resident Cedric Rusaka,"but it's a good idea for the economy, and I think people will appreciate the opportunity to get some draft beer for a change."

One resident did express concern about the project.

"It could help with jobs, but we have an alcohol problem here. I think they should be restricted and controlled," said Lizzie Amarualik.

But most said they can't wait to try the new brews.

"I'll be a customer for sure," said Kootoo.