Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland

When I was at university studying food science and nutrition many years ago, my professor took the seniors on a field trip to Grant’s Brewery in Yakima, WA to learn about fermentation. He arranged for the master brewer to share the details of brewing and fermentation with us, after which we got to try the different beers. There were just twelve of us in the program, so it was a small group but loads of fun. As college seniors in an intense program, this was a highlight of our senior year, with the exception of course, of graduation day. Fast forward 40 years and I thought of my professor and that field trip as theTravelsketcher and I toured Guinness Storehouse in Dublin a few weeks ago.

Arthur Guinness started brewing beer at St. James Gate in Dublin in 1759, and the family legend lives on today. Guinness has pulled out all the stops and made this tour an incredible experience. There are interactive displays, exhibits, tastings and so much more as you work your way through the seven stories of the storehouse.

As you begin your tour, you’ll first learn about the ingredients used to create Guinness; just four of them, and all sourced from within Ireland. They work with the farmers to ensure they promote regenerative agriculture to help support the farmers, land and environment.

Amazingly, they have been using the same strain of yeast since 1903. Here each step in the process is explained in detail.

We, as most visitors, were mesmerized with the display pictured in the three photos below. The cascading water creates beautiful images.

The steps in the brewing process are clearly explained as you work your way through the storehouse.

Along the way you’ll learn about the importance of tasting, testing and quality control by the team of dedicated scientists. Maybe I’m just a total geek, but this is all so cool!!!

There are even displays showing the different advertising campaigns, and a display on how the barrels are made. The harp was chosen as the logo for Guinness as it is the quintessential symbol of Ireland.

Finally, you’ll reach the top floor, where you can enjoy a brew and relax your brain after taking in all the science involved in brewing and fermentation, while enjoying amazing views of Dublin.

So as you enjoy a sip of Guinness, remember all the dedicated people who work hard to ensure your brew is the best it can be.

I don’t even like beer, but I highly recommend this engaging, hands-on tour when you’re in Dublin. Ticket prices range from €28 – €38 per person depending on what you want to include (basic tour, guided tour, etc). Be sure to book your visit in advance since it fills up quickly.

I have much more to share about our week in Ireland including Wicklow Mountains National Park, Trinity College Library and the Book of Kells, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Castle and the super fun music scene. It was all fabulous, and a place we would love to visit again someday if given the opportunity.

I hope you enjoyed this post and it wasn’t too nerdy for you! As always, I would love to hear from you so please leave a comment if you’d like.

Wishing you grand adventures,

Tricia