From the Editor (Issue 65)

It’s that time again, readers! Issue 65 of The Beer Connoisseur magazine has arrived, and with it, all the brew that’s fit to drink as spring is almost upon us following the long, cold months of winter.

We’ve got a bevy of beverage-related stories, as we branch out from the world of beer into spirits, barley water, interior design and much more in this thrilling issue of the magazine:

Famed artist Ralph Steadman, of Flying Dog Brewery label artwork fame, discusses the process behind creating terrific beer labels as well as his career creating zany art – and working alongside his good friend Hunter S. Thompson.

- Have you ever wondered where the name “Moscow Mule” came from for the famed cocktail? We’ve got a story that delves into this fascinating beverage and explores its history, ingredients and even some of its controversies throughout history.

- St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and we’ve got some delectable Irish-inspired recipes that are sure to satiate the appetite of those who’ve been pounding green beer all day to celebrate the holiday.

- Looking to purchase beer or beer-related products online? We put together a list of the top online beer stores for those who know exactly what they’re looking for or for those who prefer to browse around for a while, exploring various products and finally settling on the one that looks right for them.

- The Japanese craft beer scene (aka ji-biru) has grown considerably in recent years. Martin Thibault travels to the Land of the Rising Sun and enjoys some terrific Japanese craft brews made from fresh, unique and local ingredients, which produce beers that represent the fascinating land where they were born.

- Are you planning on hosting a gathering or beer tasting party at your home soon? If you have a small place, the answer might be “no.” However, our "Tips for Transforming Your Small Space into an Ideal Area for Entertaining" might change your mind, as these tips and tricks will help you elevate your small space into a perfect area to host an unforgettable party.

- Barley water is a refreshing drink made from barley grains that have been boiled in water. While it isn’t the most well-known liquid around, barley water is rising in popularity due to its health benefits and zesty flavor. Our "What is Barley Water?" story answers all the questions you may have about this intriguing drink.

Of course, this issue is also chock-full of Industry News, Official Reviews and Brewer Q&As to help round out our coverage this spring.

We hope you enjoy the issue, and thanks for reading!

Cheers,

Chris Guest
-Managing Editor