FIRST CRAFT BREWERY FOR 160 YEARS LAUNCHES IN BELFAST
Hercules Brewing Company has become the first craft brewery to open in Belfast for almost 160 years, aiming to restore the heritage of the city as the leading powerhouse in brewing that was initially established in the 1800's.
The brewery, which originally operated in Hercules Street in Belfast between 1845-1855 was widely believed to be the earliest brewery in the city, and to celebrate its re-launch the company has created a small batch brew lager called Yardsman.
In a nod to the rich history of Hercules Brewing Company, Yardsman lager pays homage to local people who worked in the Belfast industries of linen making, ship building, distilling and brewing - people who were proud to perfect their craft.
A unique offering in the local craft beer market, Yardsman lager's brewing process includes filtering locally sourced products including Irish lager malt and Belfast water through Irish linen and allowing the lager to mature for a six week period.
Commenting on the launch, Niall McMullan, international drinks industry veteran and creator of Yardsman lager, said: "I am delighted to be re-launching Hercules Brewing Company as well as introducing our Yardsman lager to the local Northern Ireland marketplace.
"In recent years there has been an international growing demand from consumers for craft beers and I am proud to be the only brewery in Belfast now providing this unique offering.
"Using locally sourced products to create the Yardsman lager, our aim is to lead a movement in local craft beer and revive and celebrate Belfast's heritage in brewing."
Welcoming the launch announcement, Lord Mayor of Belfast,Máirtín Ó Muilleoiradded:
"Sláinte mhór! I raise a glass to Yardsman, Belfast's finest and newest brew which will quench thirsts while restoring Belfast's reputation as a capital of beer making. I am sure Hercules Brewery will continue to tap Belfast's heritage in order to brand a new generation of Belfast craft beers."
Supported by investment from Invest Northern Ireland, John Hood, Invest NI Director of Food and Tourism, added: "This new brewery will help to regenerate the industry in Belfast and is very well-positioned to benefit from and contribute to the rapid growth of micro-brewing and craft beers in the UK and Ireland."