In this episode of The Beer Rep Chats With, Martin sits down with Dominic Driscoll, Production Manager and award-winning brewer at Thornbridge Brewery.
Dominic shares his journey into brewing, from early days at Marble Brewery to helping shape one of the UK’s most respected independent breweries. The conversation explores how the UK beer scene has evolved over the last 20 years, why Jaipur became such a defining beer, and how Thornbridge balances tradition, consistency, and innovation.
We dive deep into Thornbridge’s historic Union brewing system, what makes it different from modern fermentation, and why it has re-energised the brewery’s creativity. Dominic also talks collaboration brewing, working with breweries like Northern Monk, and what brewers can learn from each other by sharing knowledge.
The episode also covers the challenge of alcohol-free brewing, what really matters when making great beer, and why process and teamwork are more important than chasing hype ingredients.
A must-listen for brewers, beer lovers, and anyone interested in how great beer is made — and why Thornbridge continues to set the standard.
LINKS:
The Beer Rep Store: https://thebeerrep.com
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - 03:18 Welcome & Dominic’s Journey into Brewing
03:19 - 05:09 Brewer of the Year & The Power of Teamwork
05:10 - 06:48 How the UK Beer Scene Has Changed
06:49 - 11:46 Jaipur: From Breakthrough Beer to National Staple
11:47 - 15:01 Inside Thornbridge: Team, Culture & 20 Years
15:02 - 18:13 How Thornbridge Creates & Develops New Beers
18:14 - 20:50 Collaboration Brewing & Learning from Others
20:51 - 25:29 Brewing on the Historic Union System
25:30 - 29:49 Jaipur Today, Alcohol-Free Beer & Consistency
29:50 - Brewing Wisdom, What’s Next & Final Thoughts
