There are certain styles that some of our brewers seem to make almost exclusively for the US. I’ve never seen Young’s Oatmeal stout in a Young’s pub, for example, but I’ve read about it on American blogs. Sam Smith’s Imperial Stout is a rare beast too.

In the US there’s a huge and hungry market for craft beer. 70% of the produce from our largest bottling micro — Carlow Brewing — goes to the States. The Norwegian micros like HaandBryggeriet and Nøgne Ø make beers specifically for the Shelton Brothers to sell. In both cases it’s because the stuff just won’t shift at home. I say enjoy it.

If I wasn’t such a lazy git I’d just go to the UK and buy some. That’s a lot easier for me to do than you.

I’m shocked that Ola Dubh hasn’t made it to your shores yet, seeing as how you’re right there in the neighborhood. Old Engine Oil is great also, and I’m glad to see it making an appearance again here in Richmond.

That being said, I feel a little guilty about getting all this good stuff. I’ve been noticing that many of these breweries have been crafting their wares for the American market, or our importers are somehow crafty enough to acquire some of the better beer Europe has to offer.

Here’s to hoping they kick a case your way, Beer Nut!

I’ve been keeping a very beady eye out for Ola Dubh. The base beer — Old Engine Oil — is becoming more commonplace over here. I’m hoping the barrel-aged version isn’t far behind.