Reviews

Burton resident Ian Webster has a great love of his home town and its long and noble brewing history. He has researched the subject deeply but the mere 95 pages of his new book Brewing in Burton upon Trent doesn't do the subject justice. He has, however, discovered some fascinating old photos of brewing in the 19th and 20th centuries and the book offers a useful tour of the town, picking out breweries old and new

Added: Sunday, February 18th 2018

If you love good beer and historic inns, two books make ideal gifts. IPA -- A Legend in Our Time details the origins and astonishing revival of India Pale Ale while Historic Coaching Inns of the Great North Road traces the hostelries that still stand proud on Britain''s major arterial route. Pictured, the Angel and Royal in Grantham.

Added: Sunday, December 17th 2017

The third edition of the Pocket Beer Book offers a wide range of beers, some from countries new to the beer scene. The lists include Iconic Breweries and Breweries to Watch. The authors warn drinkers of the dangers of "Big Beer" moving into the craft sector and dumbing down excellent artisan brews.

Added: Sunday, December 3rd 2017

Leading writer Melissa Cole tackles the growing world of craft beer -- though she admits she's not certain what the word means. She chooses her favourites from such styles as Pilsner, wheat, brown, fruit and farmhouse and matches them with suggested food dishes. She admits this a book for beginners and not for "nerds".

Added: Sunday, September 24th 2017

In a stimulating and deeply researched new book, 20th Century Pub, Jessica Boak and Ray Bailey trace the history of the pub in a period that saw it bruised and battered by two world wars, interfering politicians and the rise of giant breweries and pub companies. In spite of all the turbulence, the authors are optimistic for the future of our treasured boozers

Added: Saturday, August 19th 2017

Beer writer Adrian Tierney-Jones offers his selection of 350 of the world's greatest beers, divided into seven sections to reflect the mood of the drinker and the ability of brewers to fashion beers for all occasions, from quiet reflection to riotous festivals.

Added: Wednesday, May 31st 2017

Micropubs are a new force on the drinking scene. While traditional pubs close, "pop-up pubs" are filling the gap, opening in a wide variety of empty oultets. Mat Hardy and Dan Murray have trawled the country to list all known micros but it's a shame their work is spoiled by a bilious introduction by Martyn Hillier who uses his space to attack CAMRA

Added: Sunday, March 26th 2017

Two German economists track the frightening rise of Mega Brewer AB InBev, which following its takeover of SABMiller now controls 30% of world beer production. The authors describe the ruthless manner in which the global giant slashes costs by closing breweries and axeing jobs and brands. and it is now turning its attention to the craft beer sector...

Added: Saturday, November 26th 2016

Tim Hampson's 101 Beer Days Out is a treat for beer and pub lovers, taking you on a tour of Britain and encompassing not only great pubs, but breweries, museums and hop festivals too. It's proof that beer drinking and brewing are deeply rooted in Britain's way of life

Added: Wednesday, September 21st 2016

Geoff Brandwood sings the praises of Britain's pubs with interiors of historic importance. As well as opulent pubs in major cities, the book also details simple ale houses built to refresh working people. The book is not only a joy to read but is also a call to arms to spare no effort in supporting our great pubs, such as the Crown in Liverpool.

Added: Saturday, August 27th 2016