Why is it we don’t celebrate or even reference our culinary food and drink culture? Well, at least in mainstream conversation and culture. What are we missing regarding indigenous flavour pride?

This is a thought I’ve contemplated over many years. Our looking always to what other countries or cultures are doing in food and drinks seems to support a lack of inherent confidence. Why is that? Is it simply business driven by demand? In other words demand drives supply? Customers think of foreign food and drink as superior which regardless of that merit simply drives business to satiate the demand?

Why do we allow popular culture and society assume the people and small business’ on the ground might actually know not only what they are doing but more than that – understand the inherent desire by communities to connect. Culture is deeply rooted to food and drink. Have we lost sight of that?

Connections begin at the most base point with food and drink created close by. And if not close by then the next closest point and the next closest point and so on and so on. This is not a dictatorial about never eating or drinking from the greater beyond, but it is a reminder about highlighting the producers closest to you. Price point is driven by demand along with operational costs. So, if little demand is presented production ceases.

As a small production facility here we operate a hands on system, from mashing in by hand which essentially means scooping in the crushed malted grains to warm water to steep right through to our packaging. All the bottles are filled one at a time from our single head filler. While the kegs and casks receive similar attention.

If we were situated in mainland Europe, say France or Italy local schools would arrange visits so children could learn about our traditional brewing methods. Here in Ireland that connection to the art of brewing is lost. Education around beer production is non existent.

Brewery Tours

Reconnecting with our indigenous food and drink culture starts with recognising and supporting local producers. At Tig Bhric and West Kerry Brewery we embrace traditional brewing methods, crafting beers that reflect the rich heritage of our land.

If you’re curious to experience this firsthand, why not join us for a brewery tour?

Step inside our small-batch brewery, see the process up close, and taste the unique flavours of our handcrafted beers. Book your experience today and be part of Ireland’s living brewing tradition. Explore all our brewery experiences here.