Welcome!
I’m absolutely thrilled to have you here.
In a world where the complexities of beer brewing, hop science, and the larger industry dynamics often go unnoticed, the importance of accessible, evidence-based information cannot be overstated. The very reason I’ve begun this newsletter is to forge a vibrant community of beer lovers, home brewers, industry enthusiasts and truth seekers like you and I.
The purpose of 'Breaking Brews' is not only to enlighten and occasionally entertain, but also to equip you with credible knowledge — about the intricate science behind hops, the evolving craft of brewing, the narratives behind popular beer styles, and the myths that often cloud our understanding. The aim is to help you navigate the rich world of beer with more confidence and clarity.
Here’s my commitment. I'll continue to bring you an array of insights, including brewing tips, hop analysis, industry trends, and personal narratives, peppered with photos and videos to keep it engaging. I’m here to bolster your beer knowledge and to provide the resources you need.
In return, I ask you to share what you learn, discuss the topics, and invite others to this growing community. (And, if possible, support this effort with a paid or gift subscription.)
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by the depth and breadth of the world of beer, remind yourself that the journey of understanding and appreciating this fascinating beverage is exciting, fulfilling, and worth it. Together, we'll keep 'Breaking Brews'!
Subscribe
Why subscribe?
You’ll receive free:
My analysis (including insights into the science of hops, trends in brewing, spotlight on different beer styles, perspectives on the beer industry, and many other topics)
Photos and videos capturing the world of beer and brewing.
If you become a paid subscriber, you’ll also be able to:
Comment and join an active community of brewing enthusiasts and experts.
Add your insights to discussion threads and engage in enlightening conversations.
Participate in monthly live 'Ask Me Anything' Q&A sessions, where we can discuss everything beer-related.
Have first access to new content.
Discounts on Swag
and much more
And, above all, you'll have my deepest gratitude for supporting and sustaining this work.
Who I am
From a curious home brewer to the passionate founder of Shan.Ferments, my journey through the world of beer has been an incredibly enriching and enlightening one. My name is Shanleigh Thomson and I stand at the intersection of hop science, the craft of brewing, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and caring community in the beer industry.
My initial fascination with brewing was fueled by the magic and complexity that transpires in transforming simple ingredients into a beverage as diverse and nuanced as beer. As I dove deeper into the process, I found myself particularly captivated by the role of hops and their profound impact on a beer's aroma, flavor, and character. This led me to not only explore the different hop varieties and their uses but also to delve into the scientific aspects of hop cultivation, processing, and their application in brewing.
As a brewer, I've always believed in experimentation, innovation and continuation of learning. At Shan.Ferments, I've had the incredible opportunity to put this philosophy into practice, providing resources about the latest in the research of beer, both from a economic stand point but also a scientific one.
To give you the quick and dirty about my resume, I was a Food Science and Economics Major from the University of Manitoba, and London School of Economics. I then earned my MSc. Food Science from Purdue, focusing on Fish Protein and Enzymology. I then worked for Diageo formulating many of your favourite alcoholic beverages such as Smirnoff and Smirnoff Ice. After Diageo, I earned by Master Brewers certificate from UC Davis, before working as a Brewer in Seattle. I then was a Sales Manager for both BSG and Yakima Chief Hops. I am now a consultant and more importantly an educator.
But my journey in the world of beer isn't solely defined by brewing and hops. A significant part of my mission lies in addressing systemic issues that affect our industry such as mental health challenges and lack of inclusivity. In my work, I strive to create a space that is not only welcoming to all, but also supportive of neurodivergent folks and proactive in promoting mental health awareness.
Beyond the brewery, I've always been committed to sharing my knowledge and insights with a wider audience. Whether it's through leading brewing workshops, speaking at conferences, or via this newsletter, 'Breaking Brews', I aim to bring the complexities of beer and brewing to the forefront in an engaging and accessible manner.
My quest for knowledge is unending, and every day brings new discoveries, ideas, and challenges. As I continue to learn, experiment, and advocate, I look forward to sharing this incredible journey with you, and together, we can forge a stronger, more informed, and inclusive brewing community. I hope 'Breaking Brews' serves as an informative and inspiring resource for you, whether you're a fellow brewer, a beer enthusiast, or just someone curious about the fascinating world of beer.
