Beer in Edinburgh

Caledonian_Brewery

Beer in Edinburgh

Beer in Edinburgh has a rich history and is an integral part of the city's culture. Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, has been a significant center for brewing since at least the 12th century. The city's unique water supply, known as "charmed circle," has contributed to the distinctive taste of its beers.

History

The brewing tradition in Edinburgh dates back to the medieval period. Monastic communities were among the first to brew beer in the city. By the 16th century, Edinburgh had become a major brewing center, with numerous breweries established throughout the city.

During the 19th century, Edinburgh's brewing industry expanded significantly. The city became known for its India Pale Ale (IPA) and Scotch Ale. The Caledonian Brewery, established in 1869, is one of the few remaining breweries from this period still in operation today.

Notable Breweries

• Caledonian Brewery: Founded in 1869, it is one of the oldest surviving breweries in Edinburgh. It is known for its traditional brewing methods and iconic beers such as Deuchars IPA.
• Stewart Brewing: Established in 2004, it is a modern brewery that has gained popularity for its innovative craft beers.
• Innis & Gunn: Known for its oak-aged beers, this brewery has a strong presence in Edinburgh and beyond.

Beer Festivals

Edinburgh hosts several beer festivals throughout the year, celebrating the city's brewing heritage and the diversity of its beer offerings. Notable festivals include:

• Edinburgh Craft Beer Festival: An annual event that showcases a wide range of craft beers from local and international breweries.
• Scottish Real Ale Festival: Organized by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), this festival features a selection of traditional ales from across Scotland.

Beer Styles

Edinburgh is known for a variety of beer styles, including:

• Scotch Ale: A strong ale with a rich, malty flavor.
• India Pale Ale (IPA): A hoppy beer style that originated in the 19th century.
• Porter: A dark, robust beer with a complex flavor profile.

Modern Craft Beer Scene

In recent years, Edinburgh has seen a resurgence in craft brewing. New breweries and brewpubs have emerged, offering a diverse range of beers. The city's craft beer scene is vibrant, with many establishments focusing on small-batch production and innovative brewing techniques.

See Also

• Beer in Scotland
• Scottish beer
• List of breweries in Scotland
• Edinburgh