
“My name really is Michael Jackson, but I don’t sing and I don’t drink Pepsi. I drink beer.” This simple yet charming line encapsulates the spirit of a man who, for beer lovers worldwide, was nothing short of a legend. Michael Jackson, affectionately known as the Beer Hunter, was not only a pioneer in beer writing but also a man whose passion for beer transformed how the world viewed and appreciated this ancient beverage.
The Man Behind the Name
Born in 1942 in England, Michael Jackson’s name might have caused confusion at times, but he was no pop star. Instead, he became the world’s foremost authority on beer, dedicating his life to the exploration, documentation, and celebration of beer in all its forms. He was not just a beer critic or writer; Jackson was a storyteller who saw beer as a vessel for culture, history, and identity.
Through his books, articles, and television series, Jackson unlocked the world of beer for countless enthusiasts, shining a spotlight on the diversity and complexity of beer styles and traditions. His groundbreaking 1977 book The World Guide to Beer is often credited with igniting the modern craft beer movement, introducing readers to the regional beer styles that many had never heard of. From Belgian Trappist ales to British bitters and German wheat beers, Jackson took his audience on a global tour of brewing traditions.
The Beer Hunter
Jackson’s nickname, The Beer Hunter, wasn’t just a playful moniker. It was a testament to his relentless pursuit of beer knowledge. He travelled the world in search of rare and unique beers, eager to discover how each brew was shaped by its geography, history, and the hands of its brewers. His TV series, The Beer Hunter, aired in the late 1980s, was a game-changer. It brought beer culture to mainstream audiences, making Jackson a familiar face to many beer lovers, as he shared his experiences with authenticity, wit, and enthusiasm.
His approach to beer was holistic. He didn’t just talk about taste or aroma—he told the stories behind each beer, from the ancient monasteries where they were brewed to the people whose livelihoods depended on their success. Jackson had a rare gift for making beer feel as rich and culturally significant as fine wine, and for that, he is forever remembered as one of the most important figures in beer history.
His Legacy
Michael Jackson’s work helped inspire the craft beer revolution that took hold in the late 20th century. By documenting regional beer styles and promoting the idea of appreciating beer as one would wine, he created a space where brewers could innovate and drinkers could explore the endless possibilities that beer offered. Many of today’s most well-known brewers, including those who started microbreweries and craft beer pubs, credit Jackson for opening their eyes to the rich diversity of beer.
He also played a vital role in reviving interest in traditional brewing methods. Through his work, Belgian beer, in particular, gained international recognition, and the Trappist breweries that were once in danger of fading into obscurity saw a resurgence. Jackson’s influence on the global beer scene is profound, and his books remain essential reading for anyone interested in beer.
A Life Well Lived
Beyond his expertise, Michael Jackson was beloved for his warmth, wit, and humility. He often said, “Beer is not about getting drunk. Beer is about enjoyment.” For him, beer was a way of connecting with people, learning their stories, and sharing a passion for craftsmanship. He championed beer as a drink that should be savoured, explored, and respected—an ethos that continues to resonate with beer aficionados today.
Despite his passing in 2007, Michael Jackson’s legacy lives on in the glasses of beer drinkers around the world. Whether it’s a pint of bitter in a British pub, a crisp pilsner in a German beer hall, or a rich Belgian dubbel, we owe much of our modern appreciation of beer to Jackson’s tireless work.
A Toast to the Beer Hunter
Michael Jackson didn’t just write about beer; he changed the way we think about it. His name will forever be associated with the idea that beer is not just a beverage, but a cultural experience to be explored, understood, and celebrated. So, the next time you raise a glass of your favourite brew, take a moment to remember the man who made it possible for so many of us to fall in love with beer.
To Michael Jackson—the Beer Hunter, the storyteller, and the man who helped the world discover the joy of beer—cheers!
Den Anker
Watch a few clips of Michael Jackson, the Beer Hunter, to get inspired and then heading over to Den Anker at the V&A Waterfront for some world-class Belgian beers would make for the perfect beer-filled day. Den Anker is known for offering a great selection of Belgian brews, and it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Jackson’s love for finely crafted beers.
Enjoy your time there, and maybe raise a glass to Michael Jackson while sipping on a classic Belgian brew! Cheers! 🍻