We all have our favourite pubs and go-to breweries for craft beer, but there are some destinations that are a cut above the rest.
Germany is home to many a great beer destination, and we're not just talking about Oktoberfest. Head to the city of Bamberg and you'll discover the real 'beer capital' of Germany, where a Rauchbier is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
For those wanting to go further afield the US is steeped in history when it comes to beer, while the UK also holds its own with a craft beer revolution well worth having on your radar.
To give you a helping hand, we take a look at some of the best destinations so you can soak up the history (no pun intended)...
Germany
German brewing is steeped in history. It’s still influenced by a law called the Reinheitsgebot, which was passed in Bavaria in 1516. This law stated that the only ingredients that could be used to brew beer were barley, hops and water (later yeast too, when it was discovered).
The word Reinheitsgebot translates as ‘purity order’. It bans the use of extra ingredients such as preservatives or flavourings.
Munich
When you think of German beer, you might well imagine a group of people dressed in traditional costumes, glass steins in hand, dancing and celebrating Oktoberfest.
It is, after all, the biggest beer festival in the world. Famously held in Munich, the event has come to epitomise German beer-drinking, and the fact that the city is the capital of Bavaria only further establishes its credentials.
Bamberg
Some beer enthusiasts argue that the medieval town of Bamberg is the real beer capital. It’s home to a number of breweries and is also known for its Rauchbier beer - a must for those who love bacon too.
Rauchbier is created with barley smoked over beechwood during the malting process, giving it that lip-licking smoky bacon flavour.
The USA
Germany is home to many a great beer destination, and we're not just talking about Oktoberfest. Head to the city of Bamberg and you'll discover the real 'beer capital' of Germany, where a Rauchbier is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
For those wanting to go further afield the US is steeped in history when it comes to beer, while the UK also holds its own with a craft beer revolution well worth having on your radar.
Prohibition in the 1920s meant that beer all but disappeared that decade (or went underground, but that's a whole other story).
When the act was repealed, within 24 hours it's estimated that as many as 1.5 million barrels of beer were sold, causing some to predict a ‘beer famine’.
Nowadays, there are plenty of brilliant locations where you can discover the rich history of beer, as well as some iconic breweries.
California
The New Albion Brewing Company was founded in California by Jack McAuliffe, hailed as the USA's 'father' of craft beer.
Having served in the US Navy, he spent time in Scotland where he discovered a passion for beer.
Feeling inspired, he eventually quit his job and started up the first American microbrewery. This inspired others to set up their own craft breweries. Soon enough, in the 1970s, a craft brewery scene spread across the country and across the pond. Thus the ‘craft beer revolution’ was born.
Pacific Ocean coast
West Coast IPAs are another great type of American beer. They were created by Americans who were inspired by British IPAs and were keen to recreate them. Unlike British IPAs, they contain American hops. The ‘West Coast’ name came about because these beers were generally produced in breweries on the Pacific Ocean coast.
The UK
The Industrial Revolution helped to create the mass production of beer. Powered by steam, heavy machinery could now pump water, grind malt and help with other processes of brewing.
The steam engine also allowed for the easier transportation of materials, and easier distribution of beer.
Other inventions that changed the beer world included the hydrometer, a tool that measures the density of liquid. Then there was also the invention of the thermometer, which worked to help brewers find the right temperatures for brewing.
All of this enabled British beers such as porters, stouts, IPA and pale ale to dominate the global craft brewing scene.
London
The English capital is home to heaps of smaller breweries creating all manners of IPAs, pale ales, lagers and other firm favourites.
Porters, for example, were developed in London, with their name originating from their popularity with street and river porters. Soon, they became popular all around the world.
Looking to discover more craft beers? You can sign up for a craft beer subscription box at Hopsmore.co.uk.
Drink responsibly - find out more at drinkaware.co.uk.
