Columnists: Dean Marriner and Rich Rogerson of Brew Stories

We’ve made it our mission to meet the people and bring you the stories behind the best beer around.
Based in the North East of England, we’ve have been traversing the length and breadth of our region to learn more about the wonderful beery things that are happening right here on our doorstep.

Did you know at the last count there were 92 breweries based in the North East? Over the last few years we’ve met up with many of the people behind them, and although each one has their own individual and distinctive approach, they all share an innate passion for beer and brewing. Here’s our top picks for this edition.

PALES OF SIGNIFICANCE

Father and son team Steve and Ross are the people behind Box Social Brewing. Having recently moved into new premises on the banks of the Tyne, they continue to build upon their reputation for outstanding and innovative beer. We’ve been sampling three pale ales from the core range.

Sticky Beak

A 4.2% Australian Pale – smooth, floral, and fruity with Australian hops including Vic Secret and Ella. This beer is unfiltered and unfined. Pour it into your glass and admire its natural haziness. Nice!

Gentleman’s Nectar

At 4.2% this light hoppy pale ale is brewed with all American hops. A trace of hoppy bitterness with a smooth lingering after taste. Definitely one to look out for.

Hybrid Theory

At 3.2% Hybrid Theory is an easy- drinking session Oat Pale. Smooth and full of hoppy goodness, it’s a beer you could drink all day.

LAGER THAN LIFE

One-man brewing marvel Reece, at Hartlepool-based Donzoko Brewing Company, produces beer that combines German heritage with the latest techniques from modern UK and American craft brewing.

Northern Helles

This hazy unfiltered lager is a triumph. At 4.2% it blows you away with flavour. Rich with German malts and subtle New Zealand hops this is not your run-of-the-mill yellow fizz but a rare beast indeed – a lager with taste to truly savour.

LET’S GO DARK

Danny and the team at McColl’s Brewery are quickly becoming recognised for their distinctive approach to brewing. They mix traditional and contemporary styles and are constantly pushing the envelope in terms of flavour and ingredients.

Black Forest Stout

An opulent and complex beer. Its lush body, initially full of sweet cherry, is boosted by roast and caramel malts and chocolate richness. This gives way to the refreshing Morello cherry, tartness and clean bitterness of the 70% dark cacao. At 5.3% this is one to sip slowly.