Pilsner's Journey: From Local Brew to Global Phenomenon
Episode Overview
Dr. Malcolm Purinton delves into the history and impact of Pilsner beer The episode explores the technological, cultural, and economic factors behind Pilsner's global dominance Insights are provided into the contrasting production methods of ale and lager and their influence on beer culture The role of migration and business practices in shaping the global beer industry is examined Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the interconnected narratives of technology, taste, and empire in brewing
The beer is going to be something that's tied to, well, if you're German, tied to your home country. But if you're not, it's going to be tied to the latest technology. It's going to be tied to, well, the pure yeast revolution that begins in 1883 in Carlsberg, where they're using the same exact yeast. The beer is going to be tasting the same. It's going to be wrapped up in kind of what is modern beer.
Ever wondered how a humble beer from a small town in Bohemia became a worldwide sensation? In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', Dr. Malcolm Purinton takes listeners on a historical voyage with his book 'Globalization in a Glass: The Rise of Pilsner Beer through Technology, Taste and Empire'. Dr. Purinton traces Pilsner's journey from its inception in 1842 to its global dominance, highlighting the fascinating interplay of technology, taste, and empire.
Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, he unveils how technological innovations, faster supply chains, and the political dynamics of empires played crucial roles in spreading Pilsner beer across the globe. You’ll also learn about the contrasting production methods of ale and lager, and how migration helped disseminate German-style beer far and wide. This episode is perfect for anyone curious about how a single beer style can reflect broader themes of globalization, culture, and identity.
Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just love a good story, Dr. Purinton’s insights offer a fresh perspective on the history of one of the world's favorite beverages.