Craft beer is a bit of a buzz-word at the moment, with everyone trying to jump on the band wagon and produce, sell, talk and drink craft beer. But whats the fuss about? Isn't beer just beer! That stuff you drink down the pub that comes from the shiny, brightly lit and colourful tap, sure it all pretty much tastes the same, right?
Now, we are not going to get all preachy, because in fairness, who wants to hear that. But what we will say is that all beers are most definitely NOT created equally! Your common mass produced beers try to brew out the actual flavours of the beer, they use the most common hops and malts with the least amount of distinct character/flavour in an attempt to make a generic/mass market style lager, ale or stout.
Now, we are not going to get all preachy, because in fairness, who wants to hear that. But what we will say is that all beers are most definitely NOT created equally! Your common mass produced beers try to brew out the actual flavours of the beer, they use the most common hops and malts with the least amount of distinct character/flavour in an attempt to make a generic/mass market style lager, ale or stout.
The thing that separates craft beers from these other mass market beers is the care, attention and craft that goes into producing them. Alright, we promised we weren't going to get preachy, but we do invite you to taste a few and see the difference for yourself.
Craft beer is a whole new world of flavours and possibilities, the new school of brewers have created a counter culture that gives a firm two finger salute to the giant corporations that dominate the industry. Companies like InBev and Anheuser Busch have become huge global monoliths that devour everything in their wake. The Industry at this level has become more about corporate strategic manoeuvring than it is about the product. Its refreshing to see the new wave of passionate artisans that have reinvigorated the industry and shake up the status quo.
When I finished my Undergrad, I spent a year in Dublin working in a Brewpub. It was one of the best experiences I've had work-wise to date. Getting to know all of the 120+ types of beer we had on sale and meeting the brewers and owners in the industry was so much fun! It stays with me, I have become a card carrying craft beer fanatic!
Since then its been amazing to see how the Industry has taken hold in Ireland. The amount of new breweries and beers, dedicated events and new pubs have grown exponentially over the past 3-4 years.
Long may it continue!
Viva la revolution!
Eamon,
The Beer Tender.
