More than 360 brewers gathered over six days to absorb themselves into the intensity of the 2024 hop harvest and innovations courtesy of Charles Faram.
The hop merchant has, this year, taken its famous hop walk on tour. It’s a completely reimagined, new format that replaces the original flagship event of two days packed with seminars, trade stands, crop inspections, and global crop reports.
The new format promised to be, and delivered, a more intimate experience for those taking part. Brewers and distributors joined in from the UK and internationally in an increased number of smaller focused groups across two weeks of hop harvesting, fostering a stronger connection between brewers and the sources of their ingredients.
Each day began with a site tour of Charles Faram facilities, taking in information about improvements and processes. Visitors then boarded a coach that whisked them away on a road trip from Faram’s to two Charles Faram member farms.
The new concept of smaller groups allowed for meaningful interactions and in-depth innovation discoveries at Hawkins Farming and Pridewood Hops. Brewing industry experts were introduced to cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices on the farms, and with the Charles Faram Hop Development Programme.
At Hawkins Farming, attendees marveled at the 12-month-old, state-of-the-art picking machine that has literally flipped the process of hop picking on its side. They learned about the Charles Faram hop varieties being grown, such as Harlequin, Olicana, and a British favourite, Progress.
At Pridewood Hops, guests were treated to a visit to the very latest in new varieties growing in a secret plot and enjoyed more engineering marvels in the modern kiln.
The HopWalk on Tour not only highlighted the importance of supporting British farmers, but also provided brewers with an appreciation for the hops that contribute to their craft.
As the sun set on the busy days, Charles Faram brought the eager travellers back to the Faram HQ, where a barbecue and pub snacks awaited them at their pop-up pub, The Faram Arms. Here, guests had the opportunity to sample a showcase of beers demonstrating how the flavour profiles of the newer varieties from the Hop Development Programme can be optimised.
Beers included Wondrous Isles, from Utopian Brewing, Pure Pilsner, from Purity, Dune, from Driftwood Spars, Suvi, from Thornbridge Brewery, and Hopical Storm, from Timothy Taylor’s.
“It was wonderful to see everything you’re doing and the improvements you are making,” said one visitor. “It was an incredible opportunity to explore the rich diversity of hops and gain first-hand insights into the latest breeding programmes…
“The expert guidance and passion of the Charles Faram team make the HopWalk on Tour a must-attend for anyone serious about brewing innovative, hop-forward beers. We’ve come away with not only a deeper appreciation for the craft, but also fresh ideas that directly influence our future brews.”
