In Conclusion

Craft beers imported from Italy tend to be rather pricey, so people may perhaps shy away from trying them. However, as shown above, many of these beers are not only quality beverages, but present unique contributions to the craft beer world. As such, they really should be tried. After getting acquainted, perhaps a trip will be in order, to taste them on the spot, along with the fabulous Italian cuisine that many of these beers were designed to be paired with. Rome is the obvious first destination, with its dozens of fine craft beer bars including Macche, Bir & Fud, Brasserie 4:20, and Open Baladin, all of which are world-recognized venues. At present, 10% of the beer consumed in the capital is craft! Up north, the area between Turin and Milan is probably the second best choice. It may lack the stellar bars of Rome, but this is where many of the great breweries are located, and what could be better than to drink their beers fresh at their own pubs?

Italy is quickly becoming one of the primary beer travel destinations in the world, as well as a leader in craft beer innovation. With all the similarities it shares with the Japanese craft beer scene, it certainly behooves us here to keep our eye on what is happening there.

This article was published in Japan Beer Times # () and is among the limited content available online. Order your copy through our online shop or download the digital version from the iTunes store to access the full contents of this issue.