As hints of summer briefly appeared, the North East came alive with a multitude of beer gardens and taprooms to visit.
The Free Trade Inn, Two by Two’s taproom, and Elder Beer Café were among my favourites. I also got to attend Peakender festival, where it was good to see the North East represented by Full Circle Brew Co.
In August, I joined fellow beer industry workers at The Common Room in Newcastle for the latest Brewers Journal lectures. It was a rare opportunity for our region to come together to hear more on a wide range of subjects, and to try some local beers from Hadrian Border, Stu Brew and McColl’s Brewery.
I’ve been travelling by rail a lot recently, so it’s refreshing to see Donzoko’s Train Beer now available on Lumo trains (the launch was held in Newcastle at Mosaic Tap back in May). While judging at the International Beer Challenge and The World Beer Awards, it was also fantastic to see Twice Brewed Brewery pick up a bronze award for their Juno lager.
In between my beer adventures, I’ve been reading Desi Pubs by David Jesudason. This fascinating book highlights pubs across the UK that are run by British-Indian landlords. The North East features, with a comprehensive write-up on Soho Tavern in Kibblesworth, which is now on my must-visit list!
As autumn approached, my thoughts turned to Sunday roasts to complement the beers. Wylam Brewery’s Palace of Arts was my first choice, and the lentil and pistachio terrine alongside their Hickey the Rake Limonata Pale didn’t disappoint. It’s definitely one to book in advance if you’re thinking of paying a visit.
Daisy Turnell is a beer judge, freelance marketing consultant, and owner of Craft Beer Newcastle.
www.craftbeernewcastle.co.uk
