HISTORY. It began in Ireland in the mid 1700s. The water in Ireland, indeed throughout Europe, was famously undrinkable, and the gin and whiskey that took its place devastated civil society. It was a disease ridden, starvation-plagued, alcoholic age, and Christians like Arthur Guinness-as well as monks and even evangelical churches-brewed beer that provided a healthier alternative to the poisonous waters and liquors of the times. This is where the...

Details the evolution of the beer-maker's art from prehistoric times to today's cutting-edge craft breweries. Examines evidence of ancient brews in the near east, Finland and China. Discusses how beer played such an important role in both the everyday and ceremonial life of ancient Egypt. Shows how brewmasters have recreated a 2,700 year old recipe for suds at the Dogfish Head Craft Brewery.

"The remarkable story of the world's most popular style of beer, from its humble birth in a far corner of the Austrian Empire in 1842 to its present dominance worldwide. Shattering myths about the style's origins and immediate parentage, this book shows how pilsner influenced everything from modern-day advertising and marketing to today's craft beer movement"--

"This book examines how beer reflects the structure of society's collective values, economic structures, and structural inequity. The authors explore the organization of our social world through looking at beer as a marker of identity, an object of connoisseurship, and a livelihood for those who produce and distribute it"--