Yay! Our first blog. We have been meaning to do this for a while, but as always there are too many beers to taste and sample and we keep running out of time, or coherent words… pour yourself a beer, a craft beer I should add and have a read... Crafty Fingers is putting pen to paper
Dean and I have been working in the world of craft beer for 2 years now and it’s been such an interesting, exciting and at times humbling industry to be part of. We have met some incredible indie producers from all over the country and have learned so much… with so much more still to learn! At times we feel like novices’. We were enjoying a beer last week (it’s a tough job, but ya know!!) and we were discussing how much we had learned and our take on ‘Craft Beer’ v’s where we were back in 2021. We have come a long way, but on that journey, so have you, our customers. It’s been your inquisitiveness that has pushed us and kept us on our toes in seeking out the best from some of the most experimentative producers, so we can try these together and enjoy.
I’m sure many of you will agree, craft beer has undergone a revolution in recent years, captivating the palates of beer enthusiasts worldwide. With its diverse array of flavours, styles, and brewing techniques, craft beer offers a unique and enriching experience for anyone willing to explore its depths. In this blog post, we delve into the world of craft beer, uncovering its rich history, diverse offerings, and the latest trends that are shaping the industry, from our perspective.
A Brief History…
Craft beer traces its roots back centuries, with brewing being an age-old tradition in many cultures. However, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that the craft beer movement began to gain traction, particularly in the United States. Fuelled by a desire for quality, flavour, and innovation, small, independent breweries emerged, challenging the dominance of mass-produced beers. This surge in alternatives, changed the way consumers approached drinking, from a volume and style perspective.
The Rise of Craft Beer Culture…
In recent years, craft beer has evolved from a niche interest to a mainstream phenomenon. Breweries worldwide are pushing the boundaries of creativity, experimenting with unique ingredients, and reviving forgotten brewing techniques. This newfound diversity has transformed craft beer into a vibrant subculture, with dedicated enthusiasts seeking out new and exciting brews to savour and share. These are real conversation starters. It’s one of our favourite things at Crafty Fingers... to hear customers who have never met, engage in conversations around the beer they are drinking and making recommendations to each other. It is a very inclusive club to be part of.
Exploring Flavour Profiles…
One of the most captivating aspects of craft beer is its vast range of flavours. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, each style offers a distinct taste experience. Brewers are continually pushing the envelope, incorporating unconventional ingredients such as fruits, spices, and even herbs to create complex and intriguing flavour profiles. Whether you prefer a refreshing pale ale or a robust porter, there’s a craft beer out there to suit every palate. Crafty Fingers prides itself on stocking over 400 beers at any one time, ensuring every style is available in some form.
Embracing Sustainability…
In an era of increased environmental awareness, sustainability has become a key focus for many craft breweries. From sourcing local ingredients to implementing eco-friendly brewing practices, these breweries are committed to reducing their environmental footprint while producing high-quality beer. Consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that prioritise sustainability, making it a significant trend within the craft beer industry. And we take this seriously too!
The Rise of Home Brewing…
With the accessibility of home brewing kits and online resources, more people than ever are trying their hand at brewing beer at home. Home brewing allows enthusiasts to experiment with different recipes, ingredients, and brewing techniques, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft. As interest in home brewing continues to grow, it’s likely to fuel further innovation and creativity within the craft beer community. And we love it when people arrive with a sample of something they have brewed at home. The Crafty team are always happy to sample and enjoy with those small batch producers.
Craft Beer and Food Pairing…
This has become one of our favourite pursuits within the industry. Pairing craft beer with food has become a culinary art form in its own right. The diverse flavour profiles of craft beers complement a wide range of dishes, from spicy Asian cuisine to hearty BBQ fare. Many breweries now offer food pairing events and tasting menus, allowing patrons to explore the interplay between beer and food in a guided setting. As consumers become more adventurous in their culinary pursuits, craft pairing is poised to become more popular. We are looking forward to hosting more events which covers this in more depth.
Crafty Fingers final words…
Craft beer represents a dynamic and evolving industry that continues to captivate beer lovers worldwide. With it's rich history, diverse offerings, and commitment to quality and innovation, craft beers offer a unique and rewarding experience for enthusiasts and novices alike. By embracing the latest trends and exploring new flavours and styles, you can embark on a tantalising journey through the world of craft beer, discovering something new with every sip. Cheers to the endless possibilities that await in the world of craft beer! And if you’re knocking about in Somerset, come and visit the team at Crafty Fingers…..we would love to share a beer with you!
STAY CRAFTY!
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