Bunch of Grapes becomes first official Beer Academy outlet in Wales

The Bunch of Grapes in Pontypridd has been named as the first official outlet for the Beer Academy in Wales.

The decision comes after Bunch of Grapes Beer Academy's work to attract 165 members who have enjoyed exclusive events, including tutored tastings and beer and food matching with world-renowned beer writers including Melissa Cole and Roger Protz.

Founded in 2003, the Beer Academy is an international body that aims to help people understand, appreciate and enjoy beer sensibly. The Academy is supported by brewers, beer retailers, trade associations and consumer groups and delivers training courses as well as talks, tastings and workshops.

Nick Otley, managing director of the Bunch of Grapes and the Otley Brewing Company, said: "To be declared the first official Welsh arm of the Beer Academy is a real badge of honour for us. It will help us on our way to establishing the pub as a centre of excellence for real ale and will boost our efforts to encourage more people to share our passion for beer.

"The Beer Academy at the Bunch of Grapes is a meeting point for people to get together and learn about, experience, taste and enjoy beer in all its wonderful varieties. We're really keen for more people to join the Beer Academy at the Bunch and learn about what makes real ale so special. It's fast becoming a drink of choice for a younger, more discerning drinker and this is reflected in our member base, which is made up of a large proportion of under-35s."

The next event at the Bunch of Grapes is a three-day festival from 14 October, which will bring 150 bottled beers from all over the world to Wales, many for the first time.

Beer Academy director Simon Jackson said: "Beer is not only the world's most popular alcoholic drink, it is also the most diverse. The Beer Academy's ambition is to open people's eyes to the dazzling varieties of different beers that they can enjoy and how to present them in perfect condition. We are delighted that the Bunch has come on board to spread our message in Wales."

Thai-Bo and Hedgro flavoured ales from Otley Brewing Company >>

Seasonal O-Rosie bitter from Otley Brewing Company >>

Thai Bo beer for August from Otley Beer Company >>

By Neil Gerrard

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