BARCELONA: BEER CAPITAL TO KEEP AN EYE ON

It is no secret that Barcelona has earned its reputation as a beer capital in recent years. And not only in Spain, but at European level it has managed to consolidate itself in a very short time as one of the most interesting, exciting and lively travel destinations in the craft beer scene.

There are many people who have contributed to this, from master pioneers who opened our eyes to a world of liquid poetry (RIP Steve Huxley), to our producers, distributors, breweries, fairs and festivals that have become key meeting points in the sector as well as becoming international references.

BIERCAB, A MAIN PLAYER ON THE CRAFT BEER SCENE IN BARCELONA

One of the main exponents of this boom and fast growth has been and still is, without any doubt, BierCaB. It is ranked as third in Rate Beer in the Top 50 Beer Destinations in the world for a reason. 

Located in the district of L'Eixample, our beloved Beerxample, BierCAB offers 30 rotating national and international craft beer taps, an impressive selection of bottles and cans and great food to pair it with. The quality of the beers they serve is indisputable, and it is very common to find on draft some of the top creations from all over the world in the rankings of platforms as BeerAdvocate, RateBeer and Untappd. The truth is that it is increasingly less difficult to say goodbye to the foreign breweries we visit during our travels, and we owe it, mostly, to BierCaB who brings top-notch brews so much closer to home.

MASTERY, PROFESSIONALISM AND TEAM WORK

Another reason that makes BierCaB a must stop for beer lovers is its team. Knowledge, professionalism and friendliness are standard for the manager Manolo, for José or for Kenneth -among others-, which means that anyone, regardless of their knowledge about beer, can feel well cared for, comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a beer. 

RESPECT FOR THE PRODUCT AND MAINTENANCE OF THE COLD CHAIN

Something that also deserves a special mention is the meticulous attention and respect towards the product. Craft beer has a big sensorial complexity, and the final experience by the consumer, which materializes when we pour it in the glass, can be altered or influenced by many factors, including transportation, maintenance of the cold chain to avoid oxidation and contamination, and not to forget the importance of dark and refrigerated storage. That’s the reason why BierCaB has a refrigerated warehouse with excellent conditions, where they keep all the barrels for the bar and the bottles and cans for the store, which is the small earthly paradise that is BierCaB Shop.

Well, if after what you have read so far you want to run out to the bar, just wait a moment, do not leave yet! Because now we need to talk about the store.

HEAVEN ON EARTH: BIERCAB SHOP

At the end of 2014 BierCaB Shop opened its doors right next to the bar. The selection in their fridge, equipped with LED lights to prevent deterioration, is extraordinary. In fact, it is impossible - only if the store is closed - to visit the bar without saying hi to Andrés, the guy in charge. In the shop you can find all kinds of local and imported references, different styles, limited editions and very fresh hoppy seasonal brews that fly off the shelves. You will find true wonders, some of which are difficult to obtain even in their countries of origin.

Actually you will not mind if there is no space left in your fridge. You will find some space, or you will make more of it. Neither the argument “I only came to have a quick look” will suffice. Do not fool yourself. You will end up heading home holding tightly to the handles of your big brown bag - happily but fast so you won’t break the cold chain..! - 

Finally, I do not want to leave you without giving you two strategic tips. First tip: If you feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of what is on offer and don't know what to choose, check with the staff and they will help you. Tell them what you are looking for or what you usually like. You will not be disappointed with what they'll suggest, I can guarantee it.  

Second tip: If you go to the store after visiting the bar, and not before, you will probably end up with more than one bag, since cultivating happiness is so tremendously inspiring..! Your hands will be busy with all the bags but don't worry, there is an automatic door at the exit.

Address: Muntaner 55

Post originally published in BARCELONA FOOD EXPERIENCE 

(Written by Øhm Sweet Øhm; Photography by Barcelona Food Experience and Øhm Sweet Øhm)