Friday 20 April 2012

Brewers on the Bay

Earlier this week, I went along to the annual 'Brewer's on the Bay Festival' launch party at the Olso in Salthill. What this pub offers is something unique, and the first of it's kind in Galway City: an on-site microbrewery.


The production of in house ales and porters has become an increasingly popular trend in the country, with the larger breweries such as Trouble Brewing in Kildare and the Franciscan Well in Cork, setting a high standard for the production of craft beer in Ireland.


After sampling a few of their own, we were given a tour of the in-house brewery, nestled within the walls of the Oslo. Led by their Master Brewer, he explained the ale making process to us from roasting to fermentation. A moderate beer drinker myself, I always love a good brewery tour to gain insight into different brewing complexities and techniques. 


After the tour we refilled our glasses and were joined by our new friend, the enthusiastic tour guide, and the banter about beer and life ensued until after dark! Something you can never beat is a personal touch.


Of their three in-house brews, I enjoyed their porter the most. The red ale and pale ale both tied in closed second, both very light and refreshing, served quite chilled. I would encourage any beer/ale enthusiasts to go and have a look, and see which tipple takes your fancy!


For more info visit http://www.ilovesalthill.com/the-oslo


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