Introduction......a world of craft beer

Why drink craft beer? What IS craft beer? 

Craft Beer is an interesting term, with many many people and organisations trying to define it. The American Brewers Association have described craft beer as "small, traditional and independent". They have categorised the industry by size, history, and ownership. In reality deciding which beers are 'craft' and which are not is decisively more complicated. Some argue that defining the term is simply a marketing exercise, while others believe it is indeed vital to have a definition to protect the smaller breweries from large corporations who have the financial might to brainwash us into thinking any beer can be craft. Check out Brewdogs case for it here Defining Craft Beer  

While there are many arguments, there is still no right and/ or wrong.  We believe that the Irish market does not need to yet worry about such definitions as of yet and instead focus on broadening our palates and trying new beers! For years we were limited to drinking the same low flavoured beers offered by our local. Going to a pub was not really about the beer, more the people and atmosphere. Don't get me wrong that is still one of the best reasons to go to the pub, but can't we have our craft beer and drink it?

With almost 50 craft breweries in existence or in the planning stages, Ireland now has more choice than ever. We also have better distribution channels which are enabling beers from Belgium, Germany and the U.S to be sold nationwide here in Ireland. 

So get out there people and roll the dice, try something new this week. I will be reviewing beers on this blog, including details such as style, taste profiles, availability, price and also which beers are a good gateway to the world of craft beers, to help transition from your Heineken or Carlsberg to something new. I will also be listing some of the better establishments which not only carry good beer selection but also have a good staff on hand to help you enjoy your journey down the craft beer road. 

Stay tuned and spread the word! If there is any other information you would like to learn about or discuss leave a comment below and il do my best to address it.

Cheers