Beer X: Where Hops meet Hilarity.

 

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Beer X: Where Hops Meet Hilarity (and Hangovers Are Inevitable)

So, this Wednesday and Thursday, I found myself at Beer X, SIBA’s annual event—a gathering where independent breweries come together to network, showcase the latest trends, and, let’s be honest, see who can pretend they’re not hungover the next morning.

Imagine a giant beer expo where you can browse stalls filled with hops, malts, glassware, and—because brewers love a bit of science—some experimental beer ingredients that sound like they were smuggled in from a mad scientist’s lab. And the best part? Live tasting sessions! Because nothing says "industry research" like day drinking on a Wednesday.

I had the pleasure of trying beers made with liquid hops from America, which, if I’m being honest, sounded like something NASA brewed in a test tube. Then there were the beers from Buxton Brewery, made with brand-new hops—so new, even the hops were like, "Wait, what are we doing here?"

But the real magic happened after hours. The fringe events in and around Liverpool are not to be missed. I kicked things off at Azvex Brewery, where I bravely (or foolishly) embarked on a 6%+ IPA journey. From there, I somehow made my way to Black Lodge and Crafty Devil, only to wake up in my hotel room with zero recollection of how I got there. Classic Beer X experience.

And let’s not forget the SIBA Indie Awards—a celebration of the best independent breweries out there. It’s like the Oscars, but instead of designer gowns, you get people in brewery hoodies clutching pints like they’re holding their firstborn.

The whole event was brilliantly organized, and it was fantastic catching up with so many incredible breweries. If you’re not a SIBA member yet, what are you waiting for? Join the fun, expand your beer knowledge, and