Connecticut Beer

by Will Siss

The history of the frothy beverage in Connecticut dates back to early colonists, who used it to quench their thirst in the absence of clean drinking water. So integral was beer to daily life in the colony that government officials and militiamen congregated in taverns like the General Wolfe to talk laws and business over pints of ale. Over the next two centuries, the number of breweries rose and then declined, especially after Prohibition. It was not until the 1980s that homebrewers brought this vital Nutmeg State tradition back to life, hatching the likes of New England and Cottrell Brewing Companies, as well as brewpubs including City Steam and Southport Brewing. More recently, small operations with one or two people, such as Relic and Beerd, are changing the landscape again. Connecticut beer writer Will Siss introduces readers to the hardworking people who keep the breweries and beer bars inviting and the hoppy history alive.

Genres: Beer

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2015

Reviews

[Arnold Grot]

This was a Father’s Day gift to a home brewer from my oldest daughter. I discovered some leads to expand my selections for expanded experimentations.

[Frank Schwarz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was just able to tour the entire state of Connecticut's beer/brewery history and structure without leaving my living room chair (and without once having a hangover!).
The author is a knowledgeable and humorous writer who lays out the inner workings of the breweries, the people who founded and run them, and the liquid products which they create.
Will Siss seems to really know his subject matter and is an able guide for a state wide beer pilgrimage.
Hop on board! You'll enjoy it.