Once upon a time, a long time ago, there was a beer.
The history of beer could begin just like that, as the most traditional of fairy tales, because its origins are immersed in a world just as ancient and with undefined, even somewhat magical, contours. Just like folk tales, rich in territorial variants and constantly evolving, beer has traveled over the millennia thanks to its ability to renew itself and change along with human beings.
From the first Mesopotamian recipes to industrialized processes, reaching the current artisanal renaissance, with increasing attention to wellness and quality: this beverage is a tangible emblem not only of creativity and craftsmanship but of a continuous layering of evolving convivial and social gestures, making it a true collective heritage.
It is believed that beer has origins dating back about 7,000-6,000 years. The first evidence comes from ancient Mesopotamian civilizations and present-day Iran, where archaeological findings show that grain fermentation was already practiced. These communities considered beer not only a nutritious food but also a liturgical and religious element. In the Mesopotamia region, beer was central to daily life and was often produced domestically or in temples. There are ancient cuneiform texts on the subject, such as the "Hymn to Ninkasi," which contains the first beer recipes in poetic form. In Egypt, this beverage played a fundamental role both in daily life and in religious ceremonies. It is often depicted 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 in the beer production process. The introduction of machinery, the standardization of ingredients, and new refrigeration techniques allowed for beer production on an industrial scale, ensuring greater homogeneity and consistent quality. It is around this time 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 artisanal renaissance. Small producers and new formulations have come to the fore under the banner of trends such as diversification, even on a regional basis, gluten-free, and low or zero alcohol, the latter in response to the growing focus on wellness. As Massimiliano Gusmeo, CEO of the craft beer e-commerce brand Maltese, explains, "the trend of non-alcoholic 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. Non-alcoholic and the healthy approach at the table are now an integral part of user expectations". By anticipating and interpreting consumption changes, Maltese has long created the Healthy section on its e-commerce, dedicated precisely to those seeking craft beers that meet specific dietary needs, such as non-alcoholic and gluten-free. And to the most skeptical about experimenting with these new ranges, the company assures: "Every beer is the result of passion and innovation, with the taste and variety of aromas, styles, and flavors that do not depend at all on the alcohol content".
No longer just beer and chips to be consumed at a counter or on the couch. Blondes, browns, reds, whites, and more: the pairing of beers 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 varied, from effervescence to bitterness. You can play on harmony on the palate or contrast, with a certain degree of... fun. Want some marriage tips where "they bring out the best in each other"? Find a small guide below.
