One of Harrogate’s most popualr pubs has appointed its very own beer expert as it looks to strengthen its position as a go-to real ale and craft beer specialist.
Andrew Campbell has joined the team at independently-owned 10 Devonshire Place, which continues to flourish following a strong performance last year and the successful launch of its online shop.
A former bar supervisor and cellar manager, Andrew will be keeping a close eye on the latest trends in the market to ensure the pub’s high-quality and extensive beer menu remains fresh, varied and exciting.
Andrew said: I’ll be buying the best beers from the best places, offering beers that I love and I want others to try.
I’ll also be interacting with customers a lot, both in the pub and on social media. I’d love to hear which beers they want to see on our menu.
10 Devonshire Place has one of the largest selections of beers, both bottled and on draft, in the area. Last year, it was named by the Harrogate and Ripon Campaign for Real Ale as their Pub of the Year.
With a strengthened focus on making its beers available to everyone, the business now offers its full range for customers to enjoy in the pub, take home from its expanded in-house shop or order online via its website.
Andrew said: We’re offering everyone the chance to try our amazing range of beers, whether that be in the pub itself or at home. Through our beer shops both in-house and online, we’re responding to an increase in demand for high-quality, interesting beers that people can try at their leisure.
A lot more people of all ages are drinking at home now but many still love the atmosphere of our pub. What all our customers have in common is that they want good stuff and they want to try new and different flavours. People are drinking more sour beers, hoppy IPAs, American-influenced and Belgian-influenced beers. At the same time, we’re seeing a move towards lower alcohol percentages, which used to mean less flavour. But now you can get beers with a great flavour and lower percentage.
A self-professed beer fanatic whose hobby is trying new beers, Andrew estimates he has sampled nearly 2,000 different ones in the last three years alone.
Andrew said: Four or five years ago, real ale was the main focus and then craft beer became really popular. The difference between craft beer and real ale is essentially to do with the dispensing system. But, for me, the message should be that you drink what you enjoy, whatever it’s called.
So what does Andrew think will be the next big thing in the beer industry?
Andrew said: Last year was sours, and this year I think there’s going to be a big push for what we know as lager – so beer like pilsners and bocks. Especially in the summertime, they’re really refreshing.
Another consideration this year will be the price hikes over the next 12 months. It might also become harder to buy beers from abroad. But we’ll be looking to maintain our great value pricing in the pub and shop wherever possible.
