*Once upon a time, long ago, there was beer.*A0
The history of beer could begin just like this, like the most traditional of fairy tales, because its origins are immersed in an equally ancient world with indistinct, even somewhat magical, outlines. Just like folk tales, rich in local variations and constantly evolving, beer has traveled through the millennia thanks to its ability to renew itself and change together with human beings.A0
From the first Mesopotamian recipes to industrialized processes, arriving at the current craft renaissance, with ever greater attention to well-being and quality: this beverage is a tangible emblem not only of creativity and know-how, but of a continual layering of convivial and social gestures in evolution, which make it a true collective heritage.A0
It is believed that beer originated about 7,000-6,000 years ago. The first evidence comes from ancient Mesopotamian civilizations and present-day Iran, where archaeological finds show that cereal fermentation was already being practiced. These communities considered beer not only a nourishing food, but also a liturgical and religious element. In the region of Mesopotamia, beer was central to daily life and was often produced at home or in temples. Ancient cuneiform texts on the subject exist, such as the "Hymn to Ninkasi," which contains the first beer recipes in poetic form. In Egypt, this beverage played a fundamental role in both daily life and religious ceremonies. It is often found represented in tomb paintings and reliefs, confirming its cultural significance. With the expansion of the Roman Empire and the integration of peoples, beer began to spread in Europe. However, it was during the Middle Ages that its production took on typically artisanal characteristics. Christian monasteries, in particular, became centers of experimentation and innovation in production, improving fermentation and preservation techniques. The monks developed recipes that still influence some modern beer styles today. The advent of the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century then brought significant innovations to beer production. The introduction of machinery, standardization of ingredients, and new refrigeration techniques made it possible to produce beer on an industrial scale, ensuring greater uniformity and consistent quality. It is around this period that the first brands also emerged.
In recent years, precisely thanks to its constant ability to keep up with the times, beer in Italy has experienced a new craft renaissance. Small producers and new formulations have come to the fore under the banner of trends such as diversification, also on a regional basis, gluten-free, and low- or zero-alcohol, the latter in response to growing attention to well-being. As Massimiliano Gusmeo, CEO of the craft beer e-commerce brand Maltese, explains, “the no-alcohol trend represents more than just a passing fad: today producers and retailers in the food & beverage sector have the opportunity to seize what is proving to be a real consumption phenomenon. No-alcohol and the healthy approach at the table are now an integral part of users’ expectations.” Precisely by anticipating and interpreting changes in consumption, Maltese has long created a Healthy section on its e-commerce site, dedicated to those looking for craft beers that meet specific dietary needs, such as alcohol-free and gluten-free ones. And to the more skeptical about trying these new ranges, the company guarantees: “Every beer is the result of passion and innovation, with taste and a variety of aromas, styles, and flavors that do not depend at all on alcohol content.”
No longer just beer and chips to be consumed at a counter or on the sofa. Blond, brown, red, white, and more: pairing beer and food at the table is gaining ground over wine. This is thanks to the wide variety of products available, their accessible cost and format, and the ability to maintain a youthful image, never too demanding. The characteristics to consider for pairing are many, from effervescence to bitterness. One can play on harmony on the palate or on contrast, with a certain degree of... fun. Want some pairings where “the best comes out of each other”? Find a small guide below.
