Boston has one of the strongest and most competitive beer markets in the U.S., with access to the hottest beer geek offerings both foreign and domestic.

From 2007 to 2008, estimated sales by craft brewers were up 5.8 percent by volume and 10.5 percent in dollars. Craft brewers continue to gain share and attention.

While restaurants are taking a hit due to the economy, brewpubs are faring better than others by adding value to their menus and all-around experiences.

Microbrewery production overall was up 13 percent and a record-breaking nine U.S. micros topped the 15,000-barrel mark and officially became regional breweries.

Leader of the pack Boston Beer Co. reported 8-percent growth for 2008, and most other craft regionals reported at least some growth.

Not since 1933 has the U.S. beer industry seen such a drastic amount of transformational change. A duopoly now controls 80 percent of the beer volume in the United States.

Cautiously optimistic craft brewers who so far seem to be weathering the current economic storm gathered in Boston April 21-24 for the Craft Brewers Conference.

Cautiously optimistic craft brewers who so far seem to be weathering the current economic storm gathered in Boston April 21-24 for the Craft Brewers Conference.

Chemicals, hot wort, improperly placed equipment and other hazards can threaten the safety of brewery employees on a daily basis. How safe is your brewery?

Germany, the country with both a well-established brew technology industry and very high energy prices, has taken the lead in green R&D in the brewhouse.