By 1870, Brooklyn was one of the great brewing capitals of the world, with 48 breweries.
The house in Buckingham Street was owned by Bryan Guinness, a scion of the great brewing dynasty, and his wife Diana, formerly Mitford.
Other European markets are dominated by at most three national brewers, but even the ten biggest German breweries have only 56% of the market.The great brewing families—Heineken, Anheuser-Busch and Miller all emigrated from Germany and built global giants.
In London, which was once one of the world's greatest brewing centres before falling into decline, the number of new breweries has almost doubled in the past year to 42.
Thus in one of Vile Bodies' many party scenes, Waugh remarks that "the real aristocracy, the younger members of the two or three great brewing families which rule London, had done nothing about it.
Other beer pilgrims could have just as easily chosen other cities with great brewing histories — Düsseldorf, Dortmund and Munich come to mind — but my trio seemed to offer the most promise and variety.
In case you haven't heard, Antwerp is in Belgium, arguably the greatest brewing nation on the planet, with a vast portfolio of beers – many of which can be enjoyed in Antwerp's bars and restaurants.
But for thirsty pilgrims who chance upon an exciting new brew — like the madly hoppy Quarterback IPA from Pivovar Kocour — in one of the world's greatest brewing towns, finishing a trip here can feel like the culmination of a religious experience.
While the none-too-appetizing St. Patty's Day beverage seems to be here to stay, that doesn't mean you can't buck tradition this holiday and celebrate with great-tasting beers that tip their hat to the Emerald Isle's great brewing history.
"THE GREAT BREW, VIEW AND CHOCOLATE BICYCLE TOUR" visits a microbrewery and chocolate shop, with a ride over the Brooklyn Bridge.
