While most people have a bit more time on their hands, what better time to get stuck into a new book, and what better subject than beer? If you, like me, are looking for some learning, some tasting and some information then how about some of the list below:

1 – Tasting Beer: An Insider’s Guide to the World’s Greatest Drink by Randy Mosher

This is the perfect guide for anyone who’s interested in beer and wants to get to know more. “Everyone knows how to drink beer, but few know how to really taste it” – the blurb really sums it up and this book makes it clear, easily understandable and something you’ll come back to again and again.

2 – Craft Brew: 50 Homebrew Recipes from the World’s Best Craft Breweries by Euan Ferguson

A great collection for the homebrewer – if you’re not yet at the point (like me) where you can make up your own recipes, this book gives you everything you need to replicate some of your favourite beers at home. It should take you some times getting through all these, and hopefully you’ll have some serious fun doing so!

3 – Beer School: A Crash Course in Craft Beer by Johnny Garrett

This book is great for a beginner, something easily readable with great illustrations to keep you interested and entertained. It covers everything you need to know, and will give you a broad range of knowledge to get you started on your beer journey.

4 –The Little Book of Craft Beer: A Guide to Over 100 of the World’s Finest Brews by Melissa Cole

A great little guide to some of the headline beers to try in different styles – it might not be revolutionary to someone who knows a lot about beer already, but it’s a perfect companion to have to hand, both in its size and it’s very clear and well-illustrated layout.

5- The Brewer’s Tale: A History of the World According to Beer by William Bostwick

A fantastic read, one which gets you right to the heart of the author’s love for beer. This comes through clearly in the descriptions of his efforts to make beers through each chapter and for me was a really important book in the development of my interest in beers. I probably learned more from this book than any other, so would highly recommend.

6 – The Beer Bible by Jeff Alworth

Another guide to the world of beer for the enthusiast – a bit more detailed than others above, so I would say something for those who have more of a familiarity but are looking to expand their knowledge. For me, this definitely helped to expand my knowledge of types of beer, brewing and tasting.

7 – Comic Book Story of Beer: A Chronicle of the World’s Favorite Beverage from 7000 Bc to Today’s Craft Brewing Revolution by Jonathan Hennessey

Finally, a book that breaks everything down visually – this book tells the story of beer from it’s very beginnings to the present day. Comics are always going to be easier to understand than the long written theory, but this is something accessible enough for newer beer fans and more experienced drinkers alike.

I would love to hear from you if you’ve read any of these books, or if you’re planning to look them up now! Are there any other books you’d recommend? Leave them in the comments below, or get in touch on Twitter, @craftynumber.