“So, why is there none of this back home?” These words, echoing in the mind of a young Evin O’Riordain, marked a turning point. A turning point not just for him, but for the future of craft beer in London. Right here, beneath these very railway arches, stands The Kernel Brewery. The Kernel Brewery wasn’t always here, though. It began its journey in 2009 on nearby Druid Street, a fledgling operation fueled by O’Riordain’s passion ignited during a trip to New York. The vibrant craft beer scene there, with its focus on quality and innovation, left him questioning the lack of similar culture in his hometown.
The Kernel Brewery quickly gained a reputation for exceptional beers. O’Riordain, drawing from his background as a cheesemonger, brought a meticulous approach to flavor. He sought out old London brewery recipes, breathing new life into forgotten styles like the Imperial Brown Stout and Export Stout, both inspired by brewing traditions from the 1800s. But The Kernel Brewery’s influence extends far beyond its impressive brews. It became a training ground for a new generation of brewers. Many prominent figures in London’s craft beer scene today honed their skills within these very arches. The Kernel Brewery is a testament to O’Riordain’s unwavering commitment to quality, community, and a deep respect for the craft.
Even today, with its unassuming brown labels and limited production, The Kernel Brewery stands as a beacon of excellence. It reminds us that sometimes, the most profound revolutions begin not with a bang, but with a simple question, whispered beneath the rumble of a passing train.