“Localisation” may not be the catchiest of phrases but it’s fast becoming a buzzword in craft beer. Originating in the US – as many beer trends do – the idea is to big up the link between breweries and their local communities.
"It's all about beer tying in with the region it's made in," says Claire Dalton of Dungarvan Brewery in Waterford. "Drinking a pint of local beer really enhances the experience of being in that particular place."
Many visitors coming to Waterford, she says, now ask to try local beers. “Localisation of beer is a big thing in the States and it’s something we’re starting to see now here too.”
Dalton is one of the organisers behind Indie Beer Week which kicks off this weekend (June 23rd-July 2nd). “Indie Beer Week is a celebration of local breweries,” she explains. “We wanted to create greater awareness, to get locals to come in and see what we’re up to.”
With some 27 independent breweries across the country opening their doors, there’s a raft of tastings, tours and events taking place over the week.
In Sligo, the crew at Lough Gill brewery are holding a stand-up paddle-boarding event; in Waterford Metalman are hosting a scavenger hunt; at Donegal's Kinnegar brewery you can bottle your own beer or soft drinks; in Galway Independent Brewing and Hooker will be hosting a double-brewery tour; in Carlow you can join in the O'Hara's 21st birthday celebrations with live music and DJs.
Local food will be paired with beer at Cork’s 8 Degrees brewery and Dungarvan’s four-course dining event in Waterford. “It’s more aimed at the general public than the beer connoisseur,” Dalton says.
So if you drink beer but you’ve never been to a brewery – now’s your chance. Go find out who your local brewery is.
indiebeerweek.ie
@ITbeerista beerista@irishtimes.com
