The continued growth of the UK craft beer market shows no sign of abating. To celebrate National Beer Lover’s Day we thought it the ideal time to discover ten of our Head of Food & Drink Adam Hardie’s favourite brews.

Adam was part of the judging panel at the 2018 Scottish Beer Awards and is a passionate advocate of the Scottish Food and Drink Industry.

1) Merchant City IPA

The signature IPA from the Glasgow-based Merchant City brewery brings bitterness and effortless refreshment. Cascade hops bring citrus flavours that are finished off with a full-bodied malt character. There are toffee overtones with an intriguing bittersweet flavour; a real winner.

2) East Coast Pale Ale by Knops Brewery

Set in the heart of golf country on the picturesque Archerfield estate in North Berwick, is the Knops Brewery. The brewers’ refreshing East Coast Pale Ale was designed for thirsty golfers like me but the subtle flavours make it an ideal session ale for non-golfers as well.

3) Radical Road by Stewart Brewing

If it’s hoppy beer you like, look no further than the stunning Radical Road from Stewart Brewing. A beautiful light caramel colour and a fruity taste make this pale ale an ideal accompaniment to a good meal.

4) Edinburgh Brown by Edinburgh Beer Factory

The creative minds at the Edinburgh Beer Factory have combined the American Brown Ale style with Edinburgh yeast to create Edinburgh Brown, which forms part of their BUNK! series. For cocktail lovers like me, its silky texture and coffee notes make it an ideal alternative to an after-dinner espresso martini.

5) 303 Golden Ale by Veterans Brewing

One of the newcomers in the craft beer movement is Veterans Brewing, which aims to support military veterans and charities. Their 303 Golden Ale is a flavoursome brew with hints of citrus. A pleasantly surprising aftertaste of apples will leave you wanting more.

6) Blackhouse by Fallen Brewing

For fans of a smoky beer, I can thoroughly recommend Blackhouse from the Stirlingshire based Fallen Brewery. The peaty flavour will remind you of the best Islay whiskies and when combined with hops and malt, gives a complex and deep-brown complexion that makes the perfect accompaniment for dark chocolate.

7) Clean Water Lager by Brewgooder

If you want to enjoy a delicious lager while helping a good cause then you should give Clean Water Lager from Brewgooder a try. The team behind the brew have set out with the noble mission of providing a million people with clean water through the power of craft beer and this thirst quencher really hits the mark.

8) Café Racer by Fierce Brewery

Fierce Brewery is one of the most ambitious and exciting newcomers on the market and the Café Racer porter is a coffee lover’s dream. Think of your favourite dark roasted coffee, throw in a hint of vanilla and you have something really special.

9) Long White Cloud by Tempest Brewery

Based in the heart of the Borders is the innovative team at Tempest Brewery. Paying homage to the New Zealand pale ale, their flagship Long White Cloud is a real classic. Kiwi hops meet Scottish barley malt to result in a light and delicious fruity flavour.

10) 5AM Saint by Brewdog

Last but not least is the super-power that is Brewdog, which has recorded nothing short of phenomenal growth and continues to shape the craft beer industry. 5AM Saint is the holy grail of red ales with its amazing clear ruby appearance. It is brewed using five different malts which results in flavours of berries, caramel, marmalade and chocolate.

If you would like to discuss the craft beer industry or anything Food and Drink related please contact Adam Hardie.