Craft beers are gaining in popularity

Whether lager, brown, white or amber, beer ranks among the most popular drinks and is even beginning to rival wine as part of France’s heritage. However, there are two categories of beer not to be confused: industrial beer and craft beer. They are both experiencing strong sales but a particular surge in popularity is currently evident for craft beers. Here is some guidance on how to tell them apart along with our selection of the most popular craft beers.

Craft versus Industrial

Industrial beer is produced by large retailers. They manufacture in large quantities using machinery and often employ dozens of staff. Craft beer, by contrast, is produced using traditional methods and in considerably smaller quantities. The brewing time for industrial beer is very short, around 5 days, whereas brewing craft beer takes at least six weeks.

Unlike industrial beers, the characteristics of craft beers can vary depending on the quality of ingredients or the container. The challenge for a brewer is therefore to ensure their beer has a consistent flavour, but this is also what makes their product unique. Beer enthusiasts clearly prefer the authenticity and quality of craft beers.

How to Explain this Trend?

In recent years, the number of breweries in France has increased significantly. In 2010 there were approximately 340, 440 in 2012 and 600 in 2014. Today there are almost 800 breweries in France and the 1,000 brewery mark should be reached within the next three years. With consumption standing at 30 litres per year per person, the French nonetheless remain far behind their Irish, German or Austrian neighbours, let alone the Belgians who are heavy consumers but also heavy producers.

This current enthusiasm for craft beers originates from North America where breweries have been multiplying rapidly for the past twenty years. Economic conditions have prompted some to set up a brewery alongside their main activity. However, most brewers are passionate hobbyists who venture into this activity. Riding the DIY trend, brewing one’s own beer is primarily a passion that can subsequently become profitable.

The Sextant Selection!

We have selected a few of the most appreciated beers for you.

Belgian beers:

– Chimay, a blonde brewed within a Trappist monastery.

– Kasteel Rouge, a cherry beer for those who do not like bitterness.

– Kwak, an amber beer served in a glass of particular shape.

– Gouden Carolus Tripel, a blonde triple brewed using traditional methods.

Scottish beer:

– Brewdog Punk IPA (India Pale Ale), a very hoppy blonde.

English beer:

– Bombardier, a blonde brewed in the purest tradition in the heart of England.

– Camden Town Brewery, a beer brewed in… Camden which is located in the heart of London.

French beer:

– Blanche du Mont Blanc, voted the world’s best white beer in 2015!

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