As with the rest of the country, the Kildare craft beer scene is really kicking off. More and more the buzz is spreading from the cities (ie. Dublin) to the smaller urban areas. I would like to take this opportunity to look at the Kildare brewing industry and craft beer scene. As I see it, there are currently 4 breweries - Trouble Brewing (Kill), Rye River Brewing (Kilcock but soon to be Celbridge), Kelly's Mountain Brewery (Clane) and Two Sisters Brewing (currently contract brewing in Kill). There are also some pubs that have their own 'house beer' including Hayden's in Naas, Judge Roy Beans in Newbridge and Cathedral bar in Maynooth. I know Kelly's make the beer for Judge Roy Beans but I'm not sure about the others. I believe Lock 13 in Sallins may be planning their own beer/brewpub but haven't heard anything concrete yet. They did however just start Kildare's first beer festival which was held earlier this month. Hopefully this becomes an annual event.
So what else is happening in Kildare? This is what I want to know. Are there more breweries on the way? More festivals being planned? Does anyone have any suggestions as to the best craft beer pubs/off licences? Please feel free to comment and let us know of anything going on in your area! Cheers - The Beer Hopster
