Why Do We Call Our Beer "Craft Beer"?

At The Hoptimist Pub in Bedlington, we take immense pride in our carefully curated selection of craft beers and ales. Our passion for exceptional brews is at the heart of everything we do, and we're excited to share with you why we call our beer "craft beer" and what makes it so special.

The Essence of Craft Beer

Craft beer is more than just a trendy label; it's a philosophy that embodies passion, creativity, and quality. We call our beer "craft beer" because it represents:Artisanal Craftsmanship: Our craft beers are produced by small, independent breweries that prioritize traditional brewing methods and innovative techniques. These brewers are true artisans, dedicating their skills to creating unique and flavourful brews. Small-Batch Production: Unlike mass-produced beers, our craft selections come from breweries that produce smaller quantities, allowing for greater attention to detail and quality control. This limited production ensures that each pint you enjoy is the result of careful craftsmanship. Flavour and Complexity: Craft beers are known for their bold, diverse flavours and complex profiles. Our selection showcases a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, each offering a distinct tasting experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Independent Spirit: The craft beer movement is driven by independent brewers who are free to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional brewing. By supporting these independent breweries, we're fostering creativity and diversity in the beer industry.

Artisanal Craftsmanship

Our craft beers are produced by small, independent breweries that prioritise traditional brewing methods and innovative techniques. These brewers are true artisans, dedicating their skills to creating unique and flavourful brews that stand out from mass-produced alternatives. The attention to detail in every step of the brewing process is what sets craft beer apart.

Small-Batch Production

Unlike large-scale commercial beers, our craft selections come from breweries that produce smaller quantities. This limited production ensures greater attention to detail and quality control, allowing brewers to experiment with flavours and techniques that might not be feasible on a larger scale. Small-batch production also means that craft brewers can be more responsive to local tastes and preferences, creating beers that truly reflect their community.

Flavour and Complexity

Craft beers are renowned for their bold, diverse flavours and complex profiles. Our selection showcases a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, each offering a distinct tasting experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Craft brewers often use a wider variety of ingredients, including specialty malts, unique hop varieties, and even unconventional additions like fruits, spices, or coffee, to create beers with depth and character.

Independent Spirit

The craft beer movement is driven by independent brewers who are free to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional brewing. By supporting these independent breweries, we're fostering creativity and diversity in the beer industry. This independence allows craft brewers to take risks and innovate without being constrained by corporate interests or mass-market appeal.

The Craft Beer Revolution

The craft beer movement has its roots in 1970s America, where West Coast entrepreneurs took traditional European beer recipes and infused them with a distinctly American flair, creating bold and innovative brews. This revolution quickly spread across the globe, inspiring brewers worldwide to challenge conventions and explore new frontiers in beer-making.

In the UK, this movement has gained significant momentum, with craft breweries opening at an unprecedented rate. The Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) has even established the Assured Independent British Craft Brewer initiative to recognise and support small, independent breweries producing quality beer.

The Rise of Craft Beer in the UK

The UK has a long and storied history of brewing, but the craft beer movement has brought new energy and innovation to the industry. In recent years, we've seen a explosion of new breweries across the country, each bringing their unique take on traditional styles and creating entirely new ones.

Cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh have become hotbeds of craft brewing activity, but the movement isn't limited to urban centres. Rural areas and small towns, including our own Bedlington, have embraced craft beer, with local breweries becoming points of pride for their communities.

Our Craft Beer Selection

At the Hoptimist Pub, we're proud to showcase some of the finest craft beers from both local and international breweries. Let's take a closer look at some of the exceptional breweries and beers we feature:

Tempest Brewing Co.

Tempest Brewing Co., based in the Scottish Borders, is a shining example of craft brewing excellence. Their journey from a garage in New Zealand to becoming one of the top 100 breweries in the world is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation.

Signature Beer: Modern Helles

This crisp, refreshing lager showcases Tempest's brewing prowess. Using Golden Promise malt and Mandarina Bavaria hops, it offers a perfect balance of light malt flavours and subtle citrus notes. The beer's clean finish makes it an ideal choice for those new to craft beer or looking for a sessionable option.

Long White Cloud

This extra pale ale is a tribute to Tempest's New Zealand roots. Packed with South Island hops, it bursts with citrus zing and represents the brewery's journey from home brewing to award-winning status. The use of New Zealand hops like Motueka and Nelson Sauvin gives this beer a unique tropical fruit character that sets it apart from traditional British pale ales.

Two by Two Brewery

Located in the heart of the North East, Two by Two Brewery has quickly made a name for itself in the craft beer scene. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a loyal following among craft beer enthusiasts.

Signature Beer: Hoptimist Session IPA

This beer, which shares its name with our pub, is a testament to the creativity and skill of local brewers. It's a perfect example of how craft breweries can create flavourful, lower-alcohol beers that don't compromise on taste. The Hoptimist Session IPA balances a robust hop profile with a lower alcohol content, making it ideal for extended tasting sessions.

Hadrian Border Brewery

Celebrating the rich history of the North East, Hadrian Border Brewery produces beers that are as robust and enduring as the famous wall itself. Their commitment to traditional brewing methods, combined with a willingness to experiment, results in beers that are both familiar and exciting.

Signature Beer: Northumbrian Gold

This golden ale is a local favourite, offering a perfect balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness that reflects the character of the region. It's a testament to the brewery's ability to create beers that appeal to both traditional ale drinkers and those looking for something with a craft beer twist.

Anspach & Hobday

Based in London, Anspach & Hobday represents the new wave of urban craft breweries that are reimagining British beer styles for the 21st century.

Signature Beer: London Black Nitro Porter

This smooth, creamy porter is a modern take on a classic London style. The use of nitrogen in the brewing process gives it a silky mouthfeel, while the roasted malts provide rich flavours of coffee and dark chocolate. It's a perfect example of how craft brewers are reviving and reinventing traditional beer styles.

Vocation Brewery

Hailing from Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire, Vocation Brewery has quickly established itself as one of the UK's most exciting craft breweries.

Hop, Skip & Juice Hazy Pale Ale

This beer exemplifies Vocation's approach to brewing - bold flavours in a sessionable package. Packed with new world hops, it delivers a punch of tropical fruit flavours with a crisp, dry finish that keeps you coming back for more.

Pentrich Brewing Co.

A relative newcomer to the scene, Pentrich Brewing Co. from Derbyshire has already made waves with their innovative approach to brewing.

Retro Stripes, American Style Hazy Pale Ale

This beer showcases Pentrich's skill in creating hop-forward beers that don't overwhelm the palate. With a blend of American and Australian hops, it offers a complex array of fruit flavours balanced by a solid malt backbone.

The Craft Beer Experience at Hoptimist Pub

When you order a craft beer at the Hoptimist Pub, you're not just getting a drink; you're partaking in an experience. Each pint tells a story of passionate brewers, carefully selected ingredients, and time-honoured traditions blended with innovative approaches.

Our Commitment to Quality

We go to great lengths to ensure that every craft beer we serve is at its absolute best:

1. Careful Selection: We work closely with breweries to choose beers that represent the pinnacle of craft brewing. Our selection process involves regular tastings and discussions with brewers to ensure we're offering the best of what's available.
2. Proper Storage: Our cellar is maintained at optimal temperature and humidity levels to preserve the quality of each beer. We invest in top-of-the-line refrigeration equipment and monitor conditions daily to ensure every pint is served at its peak.
3. Expert Serving: Our staff is trained in proper pouring techniques for different beer styles to ensure the perfect serve every time. This includes everything from the correct glassware to the ideal amount of head for each style.
4. Regular Rotation: We constantly update our selection to offer new and exciting options, keeping our menu fresh and interesting. This not only provides variety for our regulars but also allows us to showcase the latest innovations in craft brewing.

The Art of Pairing

Craft beer's complex flavours make it an excellent companion to food. At the Hoptimist Pub, we offer suggestions for pairing our craft beers with menu items to enhance your dining experience. For example, the citrusy notes of Tempest's Long White Cloud pair beautifully with garlicky chicken dishes, while the rich, roasty flavours of Anspach & Hobday's London Black Nitro Porter complement our chocolate desserts perfectly.

The Brewing Process: Craft vs. Commercial

Understanding the brewing process helps appreciate why craft beer stands out from its mass-produced counterparts:

1. Ingredients: Craft brewers often use higher quality, locally-sourced ingredients. For instance, Tempest Brewing Co. uses specialty malts and expensive hop varieties from New Zealand and the US to create their distinctive flavours. Many craft brewers also experiment with unconventional ingredients like fruits, herbs, or even vegetables to create unique flavour profiles.
2. Brewing Techniques: Craft brewers employ various techniques to enhance flavour, such as dry hopping, barrel ageing, and using unique yeast strains. Tempest has experimented with cultivating their own yeast strains to create unique flavour profiles. Some craft brewers also use techniques like kettle souring or spontaneous fermentation to produce complex, layered beers.
3. Fermentation and Conditioning: Craft brewers often allow for longer fermentation and conditioning periods, which can result in more complex flavours. This patience allows the flavours to develop fully and can result in smoother, more balanced beers.
4. No Shortcuts: Unlike large commercial breweries, craft brewers don't use additives or preservatives to artificially extend shelf life or alter flavour. This commitment to natural ingredients and processes is a hallmark of craft brewing.

The Impact of Craft Beer

The rise of craft beer has had a significant impact on both the brewing industry and local communities:

Economic Impact

Craft breweries often source ingredients locally and employ people from the community, contributing to local economies. The farm brewery movement has created new opportunities for farmers and brewers to work together, with some breweries growing their own ingredients. This farm-to-glass approach not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also supports local agriculture.

Cultural Impact

Craft beer has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring beer festivals, tasting events, and even beer tourism. It has changed how people think about and appreciate beer, elevating it from a simple beverage to a subject of connoisseurship akin to wine. Many craft breweries have become community hubs, hosting events and fostering a sense of local pride.

Environmental Impact

Many craft breweries are at the forefront of sustainable brewing practices. From using locally sourced ingredients to implementing water conservation measures and renewable energy sources, craft brewers are often leaders in environmental stewardship within the brewing industry. Some breweries have even pioneered closed-loop systems that recycle water and convert waste into energy.

The Future of Craft Beer

As the craft beer movement continues to evolve, we're seeing exciting trends emerge:

1. Experimental Flavours: Brewers are pushing boundaries with unusual ingredients and flavour combinations. From fruit-infused IPAs to pastry stouts, the only limit is the brewer's imagination. We're seeing beers brewed with everything from seaweed to doughnuts, reflecting the creative spirit of craft brewing.
2. Low-ABV and Non-Alcoholic Options: Responding to changing consumer preferences, many craft breweries now produce flavourful low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beers. These beers are crafted with the same care and attention as their higher-alcohol counterparts, offering complex flavours without the high ABV.
3. Barrel-Aging: Once a niche process, barrel-aging has become increasingly popular among craft brewers who age their beers in everything from bourbon barrels to wine casks for unique flavours. This technique adds depth and complexity to beers, often resulting in limited edition brews that are highly sought after by enthusiasts.
4. Sour Beers: Inspired by traditional Belgian lambics and Flanders red ales, many craft breweries are now producing their own sour beers—adding another dimension to the craft beer landscape. These tart, complex beers are winning over even those who traditionally didn't consider themselves beer drinkers.
5. Hyperlocal Focus: Many craft breweries are doubling down on their local roots, using ingredients sourced from their immediate surroundings and creating beers that reflect their local terroir. This trend connects beer more closely with its place of origin, much like wine.
6. Collaboration Brews: Craft breweries are increasingly collaborating with each other and with other artisanal producers (like coffee roasters or distilleries) to create unique, limited-edition beers. These collaborations foster creativity and community within the craft beer world.