Bristol-based Moor Beer has become the first brewery to continuously supply British cask beer to the Italian market.
Cask beer has previously been available in Italy at festivals and one-off deals. But the growing reputation of Moor Beer means multiple monthly shipments have started and are increasing.
While the craft beer movement in Italy is a relatively new phenomenon, in the past decade more than 1,000 micro-breweries have popped up and distributors also supply brews from around the world. 
Moor Beer was launched in 2007 when owner and head brewer Justin Hawke bought a defunct brewery based on the Somerset Levels and Moors.
Moor’s global recognition, coupled with its expertise from sending a significant proportion of production to around 20 export markets, prompted its Italian distributor to organise for a regular flow of award-winning brews.
Justin Hawke said: “This is an exciting deal for us and a wider opportunity to increase interest in cask beers in a major market eager to explore great products.
“Cask beer is fantastic – it is a natural product, full of flavour which is why it has such appeal. Given how it is made and handled, it is vitally important to us that we work with people who understand and respect what great quality cask beer is. We have that with our partners and friends in Italy.”
Lorenzo Fortini from distributor Ales & Co in Italy said: “Moor Beer creates top quality real ale and as this is a relatively new subject for Italian drinkers, we are determined to introduce them to the finest beers available. We trust Moor Beer, as they work hard in delivering fantastic products in great condition, especially as it needs to travel from the UK.
“Planning ahead with the brewer means we can inform our customers in advance about what is coming. We carefully select the venues that can handle the products, from storage to venting the casks and serving the beer, in the best condition, so that the quality is not compromised.
“When we consider the unique appeal of cask beer we cannot think of a better brewer to partner with than Moor Beer. We are delighted to have organised this continuous supply deal and will look to build the distribution and profile of the beers.”
Moor Beer, based in Days Road, produces naturally hazy beers, retaining the full flavour and freshness of the product and without introducing processing agents to fine the beer.
Their dedication to this style – something they call ‘modern real ale’ – extends across their range in all formats. Moor Beer is the only producer to have CAMRA approval for real ale in cans.
