This is a recording of the Organic Hops Field Lab workshop held at the Organic Growers Gathering 2024. Two of the participants in the field lab, Greg Pilley from Stroud Brewery and Isi Mackintosh from ORC discussed the history of beer and hop cultivation in the UK, the specific challenges of growing hops organically, and the future impact of climate change on global beer production. The thoughts behind the Innovative Farmers field lab were then explained in response to these issues, as well as the success of the trials and outlining potential areas for future research. As the discussion unfolded, attendees enjoyed beer from Stroud Brewery, including the freshly brewed green-hopped ‘Brewers Garden’, made with locally grown hops from the Stroud community. Fuelled by several pints, the audience offered a range of ideas for expanding organic hop production in the UK, such as incorporating hops into forest gardens. Personal stories about attempts to grow or forage for wild hops were shared, contributing to the lively atmosphere. The tent was buzzing with enthusiasm for the future of UK-grown organic hops!
