trouble is that those in the micro brew and real ale designer beer industry have still not been able to make their product affordable in quantity. Part of this is a status thing but also part because they have to pay for all the expensive equipment or so they claim....
If it is priced to compete then it will do well in upsetting the popular brews. Another problem is that I find designer beers too rich for the type of consumption I am often looking to accomplish.
Flavor is important but when things get too hopped up and rich quantity drinking becomes impossible.
I always prefered X over brown ale.
I miss durham where I was at university my second year. Perhaps I will return for a tour some time- perhaps a lecture tour on the music....anyone got a good grant?