News broke late on Monday, August 10, 2015, that famed U.S. beer icon, Fred Eckhardt passed peacefully in his bed in Portland, Ore. Eckhardt was 89.
Jay Brooks took to his blog, the Brookston Beer Bulletin, and shared that Eckhardt “was a pioneer in writing about and defining beer styles with his early book on the subject, The Essentials of Beer Style, published in 1989.”
From his home base in Portland, Fred was nothing short of a beer rock star, inspiring both beers and beer festivals to be named in his honor. Throughout his life, he continued to write on the subject of beer, encouraging others to think about beer in new ways.
“Fred Eckhardt was a friend, educator and lover of all things beer. Ever the iconic appreciator, he was also a veteran and a leader of the U.S. homebrewing movement,” said Bob Pease, Brewers Association CEO. “As an author and one of the best beer spokesmen ever to represent the beverage, he inspired many and will be greatly missed.”
I never had the chance to meet Fred, but he has definitely shaped my life through his body of work. Along with the rest of the Brewers Association, I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. His legacy has, and will, continue to inspire others to explore the immense mysteries of beer. We raise a mug to you, Fred. Rest in peace.
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