Craft beer in Ireland
When most people think of Irish beer, the iconic image of a pint of Guinness immediately comes to mind. While this legendary stout deserves its fame, Ireland’s vibrant craft beer scene offers a wealth of other remarkable brews worth exploring. From innovative ales to crisp lagers, Irish breweries are redefining the beer experience. If you’re traveling through the Emerald Isle or just curious about its beer culture, here are some exceptional beers to try from Hope Beer, Walled City Brewery, and Ballykilcavan Brewery.
Hope Beer, based just north of Dublin in Howth (on the DART train line), has been making waves with its adventurous approach to brewing. Each beer comes with a unique story, reflected in its creative packaging and flavor profiles. Here are two standouts from their range:
Hope Passifyoucan Pale Ale: This American-style pale ale balances citrus and tropical fruit notes with a subtle malt backbone. It’s refreshing, easy to drink, and perfect for those who enjoy a well-crafted ale.
Grunt Citrusy Wheat Beer: A delightful twist on a traditional wheat beer, Grunt delivers zesty orange and lemon flavors with a hint of spice. It’s a fantastic choice for warm afternoons or pairing with light, summery dishes.
Situated in Derry (where the London is silent), Walled City Brewery combines a love of local heritage with a passion for brewing. Their beers often draw inspiration from the city’s rich history and culture. Here are a couple of highlights:
Kicks IPA: This India Pale Ale packs a punch with bold hop flavors and a well- balanced bitterness. It’s a modern take on a classic style that craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate.
Foyster Oyster Stout: A creamy oyster stout made using the Lough Foyle Irish flat oyster. A little sweet … a little savory, bet you can’t drink just one!
Located on a family farm in County Laois, Ballykilcavan Brewery is steeped in history—the same family growing barley for 386 years! Owner (and farmer) David Walsh-Kemmis has a focus on sustainable practices and use barley grown on their own land to craft their beers. Notable offerings include:
Ballykilcavan Bin Bawn Pale Ale: This pale ale is a true farm-to-glass experience, featuring floral hop aromas and a clean, crisp finish. It’s a testament to the brewery’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Brickyard Red Ale: Rich and malty with hints of caramel and toffee, Brickyard Red Ale is a satisfying beer that pairs beautifully with hearty Irish dishes.
Other Noteworthy Irish Beers
Ireland’s craft beer scene continues to grow, with a plethora of options beyond the classics. Here are two additional brews worth seeking out:
YellowBelly Citra Pale Ale (YellowBelly Beer): This vibrant pale ale showcases bold citrus and tropical fruit flavors, thanks to the generous use of Citra hops. Its crisp, clean finish makes it a standout choice for any beer lover.
O’Hara’s Irish Red (Carlow Brewing Company): A nitrogenated, traditional Irish Red Ale with a malt aroma that is immediately present and lasting with a tiny hint of roast barley, with an unmistakable fruity and almost
Exploring Beyond the Pint
Ireland’s craft beer movement is flourishing, offering something for every palate. Hope Beer, Walled City Brewery, and Ballykilcavan Brewery are just a few examples of the innovation and passion driving this scene. So, next time you raise a glass in Ireland, step outside the Guinness bubble and discover the exciting flavors these breweries have to offer.
