Lots of Beer in Russia

Beer breweries are springing up like mushrooms, with lots of beer as a result.

Russian revolution: from vodka to beer

A true beer revolution in Russia—that is what a new generation of beer brewers is hoping for. In two years, twenty-five new microbreweries opened in Moscow, while breweries are also springing up like mushrooms in St. Petersburg and the rest of Russia. Remarkable in a vodka-loving nation. In 2010, 51 percent of the alcohol consumed was vodka, compared with 38 percent beer. Since the economic crisis of 2015, the minimum price of vodka has fallen even further. Not without consequences, as the life expectancy of Russian men is extremely low at 64 years. The new generation of beer makers is working hard to improve the image of Russian beer and wants to improve Russians’ troubled relationship with alcohol. It is time to enjoy two craft beers with orange peel and hibiscus tea instead of getting drunk quickly on cheap vodka. In times of crisis, that is quite difficult, considering that a craft beer costs between three and four euros. The beer is also of lower quality than its Western counterparts. The brewers still have plenty of work to do.

Thomas Keller takes a fall at Per Se

In 2011, Per Se, awarded three Michelin stars, was visited by The New York Times food critic, and the reviewer’s message was clear: this is where you can eat fantastically well. New York restaurant Per Se therefore received four stars (the highest score, representing extraordinary). Four years later, Keller’s institution is in considerably worse shape. Only the classics taste good, while everything else on the menu consisting of new dishes is considerably less successful and unimaginative, according to the critical reviewer. The service also leaves something to be desired when the wine glasses are not refilled between courses. That is putting it mildly when you consider that you have to pay 325 dollars per cover (excluding drinks).

The solution to insomnia

Insomnia is a problem for millions of people. It has long been known that computers and phones should be put away at a reasonable time in the evening and that coffee is hardly conducive to sleep, but according to new research, there are now other things to take into account. Food is the answer. For example, if you eat more fiber during the day, you will sleep more deeply and for longer at night. According to the research, eating less sugar and fat also seems to improve your sleep. Not exactly mind-blowing research, but still worth trying.

Sources: Treehugger, The New York Times, The Guardian
Image: School House Craft Beer