Craft Beer: Discovering Its Roots
Craft beer is among the most popular drinks in the world but do we know where the term came from and how it originated? In this travel blog post, we will dig deeper into the history of craft beer, how it has evolved over time and how it has become a significant part of our culture today.
Craft Beer: The Origins
Craft beer is a term that was coined in the 1970s by a group of microbrewers in the United States. It was used to distinguish their small-batch, brewed-on-premises beers from the mass-produced beers that dominated the market at that time. These microbrewers took pride in their craft, focused on flavor and quality, and brewed beer with a more individualistic approach.
Craft beer, as a category, began to grow in the 1980s and 1990s when microbrewers saw the potential for their beer to be marketed nationally. The Beer Advocate, a website founded by brothers Todd and Jason Alström in 1996, was one of the first publications to promote craft beer and connect brewers with beer drinkers.
Craft Beer: The Growth
The growth of craft beer in the United States was so rapid that in 2014, the Brewers Association had to change the definition of a craft brewery. Their new definition included breweries that produced up to 6 million barrels of beer per year, up from the previous limit of 2 million barrels. Today, there are over 8,000 craft breweries in the United States and the industry is worth over $29 billion.
Craft Beer: The Culture
The popularity of craft beer can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the rise of food culture, the demand for locally sourced products, and the desire for unique and flavorful beer. Craft beer drinkers appreciate the care and attention that go into each beer, and they often seek out new and exciting brews to try.
Craft beer has also become a cultural touchstone, with many breweries serving as community gathering places. They often host events, live music, and food trucks, and encourage patrons to spend time in their taprooms. This has led to the rise of “beer tourism,” where people travel to different cities and regions to sample local craft beers.
Craft Beer: The Future
As the craft beer industry continues to grow, there are concerns about its sustainability. Some worry that the market has become oversaturated, and that there may be a bubble that will eventually burst. Others worry that the larger breweries that have acquired craft beer brands will begin to compromise on quality and flavor in order to increase production.
Despite these concerns, many craft beer enthusiasts remain optimistic. They believe that the focus on quality and innovation will continue to drive the industry forward, and that craft beer will continue to be a cultural cornerstone for years to come.
In conclusion, craft beer has come a long way since its humble beginnings. From a small group of microbrewers, to a multi-billion dollar industry with thousands of breweries, it has become an important part of our culture. Whether you are a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or a curious beginner, there is always something new and exciting to discover in the world of craft beer.
