Having started my path to becoming a brewer about a year ago, I thought I’d reflect on the great things about being a brewer.
- The beer! Yes I’ve always loved beer but becoming a brewer has opened my eyes to the great range of beers across the UK and the world. To have a job producing something that is my passion is “living the dream”.
- It’s a happening thing! What a great time to become a brewer! Over 1000 brewers in the UK, about 30 in Essex and losing count of how many in London. Brewing is certainly taking off in Britain. But not just a lot of similar beers, the craft beer movement means that there is now an amazing range of beer flavours. Just last weekend I sampled beers from The Kernel and Partizan – wow, what flavours! New beer bars setting up and the move to drink beer to accompany food – much more versatile than wine.
- The people. I’ve met most of my best friends, including my wife, over a beer. Becoming a brewer has meant I’ve met even more great people. Other brewers, bar & pub owners and of course the drinkers. The great thing is how all the microbreweries work so well together.
- Science and art together. Creating beer is a fantastic marriage of art and science. I’m a scientist by background, but have had a great love of art too. Creating great beer needs science but also art to create its character.
- Being my own boss. I can’t believe it has taken me this long to become my own boss. Whilst it may not have the security of a 9-5, it is so liberating to be in charge of what I do. I work hard and can become obsessed by the work, but it’s fantastic to decide what I do and when I do it. I’d thoroughly recommend you to try it.
- Creativity. You can experiment and try to create whatever you want. Every beer can be unique. I’ve not found a beer that tastes the same as Mayflower Gold! Push the boundaries, try to create something special.
- It’s natural and local. Yes craft beer uses all natural ingredients and can be a true local product.
If you’re out there brewing your own beer, what do you like most?
