A collaboration between Celtic Connections and Glasgow’s Drygate Brewing Company has produced what is thought to be the world’s first beer infused with Celtic music.
‘Festival Brew’ was serenaded with live music during the brewing and maturation process and has been made to be paired with live performances at Celtic Connections in 2016.
The beer is in a 5.3% Saison style and was inspired by the 10th anniversary of twinning of Glasgow and Marseille — a partnership that has also inspired elements of the Celtic Connections 2016 programme.
Celtic piper John Mulhearn and acoustic guitarist Findlay Napier played alongside the Drygate team as the beer was brewed. Speakers placed inside the fermentation tanks ensured it continued to be infused with Celtic music during the two week conditioning process.
The Saison, incorporating the French hops Aramis and Strisselspalt, is a traditional Farmhouse Ale originally brewed in the French countryside during the cooler, quieter months of the year.
Matt Corden, Operations Director at Drygate, referred to ‘Festival Brew’ as “a truly innovative and collaborative project.”
“Beer is traditionally brewed with just four ingredients. In this instance, we’re adding a fifth – music. What’s more, the Saison beer style has its roots firmly in farmhouse and folk tradition, making it a fitting accompaniment to the Celtic music being showcased at this year’s Festival.”
Donald Shaw, Celtic Connections Artistic Director, said: “The Celtic Connections 2016 programme is shaping up to be a festival of firsts. Not only do we have exciting new strands like “The Shape of Folk to Come” but an incredible ‘Festival Brew’ to enjoy them with which, like the Festival, has Celtic music at its heart.”
Established in 1994, Celtic Connections is the largest roots music festival in Europe. Running from the 14th to 31st January 2016, the festival blends music, workshops and events at various venues across Glasgow including a programme of events taking place at Drygate Brewery.
