The Scottish brewer “Innis and Gunn” have released a limited edition smoked beer “Smokin Gunn”.
The 7.4 % brew is a collaboration with David Ashton-Hyde, head bartender at Heston Blumenthal’s Michelin-starred pub the Hinds Head in Bray. Continue reading

The Stone Brewing Company in North San Diego has launched a beer in “memory of an extraordinary brewer” who was killed at their facility last year. Matthew Courtright, 27 “ a passionate and beloved craft brewer was killed while operating a forklift truck. For reasons unknown the truck rolled causing serious injuries to his chest. He was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the Palomar Medical Centre. Continue reading

Despite the overall drop in the US beer market the sale of “Craft beer” continues to grow. Craft beer production continues it’s growing trend to capture a 7% of the total beer market. It is believed that craft beer is up from 178 million cases to 195 million. Consumers continue to express their interest in different flavour profiles and beers that are compatible with different foods. By June 2013 there were some 2,500 craft breweries in the US. However, the biggest selling category of beer in the US is “Light” which makes up 50% of the market.

Charles Banks, the former owner of the Californian Cult Winery “Screaming Eagle” has bought a stake in the New Zealand winery “Trinity Hill” from its London-based owners. Continue reading

With the favourable growing season leading to 2014 harvest New Zealand is set to beat last year’s 345,000 tonne harvest which will suit the growing export demand. The New Zealand Wine Growers Association President, Steve Green has said that the 2014 harvest would depend on the weather but there is every reason to believe that they will enjoy yet another record harvest. @012 was relatively small resulting in poor exports. 2013 saw a 28% increase and it is hoped 2014 will further boost the export figures. Continue reading