A new book published by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) will examine how the past two decades have shaped the British beer scene.
Modern British Beer, by writer and photographer Matthew Curtis, maps the evolution of modern British beer through the stories of individual regional beers.
It looks at how the British beer scene has taken its cue from the craft beer revolution in the US and the resurrection of traditional styles in continental Europe, as well as some home-grown traditions.
As a result, the brewers of Great Britain and Northern Ireland have carved out a unique and exciting world-leading beer culture.
Matthew gives a personal insight into this eclectic and innovative world, using a selection of 86 influential brews; from how they taste and how their ingredients are sourced, to the engaging stories of the people behind the scenes. There’s a dive, too, into who the movers and shakers are in the eclectic world of beer and brewing across Britain.
‘A starting point to explore British beer’
Matthew said: “I am very excited to be sharing Modern British Beer and celebrating just some of the industry’s success in the 21st century.
“This past year has been an incredibly difficult one for the beer and pub industry, and I hope readers will enjoy looking back on the fantastic journey the beer scene has undergone in the UK over the past 20 years, while looking ahead to supporting the industry in the forthcoming months and helping it thrive for another 20 years (and long beyond!).
“Modern British Beer is a fantastic starting point to explore British beer, with an exciting location closer than you think. This book is about why modern British beer is important. Whether it’s a can or two at home, a bottle generously shared with friends, a quick pint at the local, or a night of revelry to mark a milestone moment, British beer is really coming of age and deserves to be celebrated.”
• Modern British Beer is available for pre-order now (click here) for £13, or £16 for a signed edition. It will officially go on sale from 12th August.
