Prince of ales

When outsiders think of Wales, they imagine dark pits, rugby football and male-voice choirs echoing down the steep valley. Yet what refreshed the coal miner and the muddy scrum-half, what lubricated the voices of the singers? The answer is beer. Now, for the first time, an authoritative book examines the history of brewing in Wales, which was the home of one of the first lagers in Britain and the first country to can beer in Europe. Brian Glover looks at the rise and fall of the leading companies like Rhymney Breweries and the Ely Brewery, and the colourful and dominant characters who created them. He recalls pubs that brewed their own beer, recounts odd and entertaining tales about beer-drinkers and brewers, and reveals strange facts about brewing from the commercial brewery built in a castle to the brewery with an unusual sideline in Christmas. Prince of Ales gives a fascinating account of how Welsh brewing survived and prospered during difficult times and despite the consistent opposition of one of the strongest temperance movements in Britain. The book also contains a comprehensive geographical directory of Welsh brewers, which will make it essential reading and reference for all students of the brewing industry and all lovers of beer in Wales.