"Established in 1860 to quench the thirst of British troops, the [Murree] brewery has withstood riots, shutdowns and severe restrictions, including laws that for more than three decades have put alcohol off-limits to the vast majority of Pakistanis."

In a part of the world, where the vast majority of people are prohibited by religious restrictions from consuming alcohol, one Brewery is beginning to experience growth. You may think that this brewery is hidden out in the desert or high up in the mountains, but it is front and center in an ever changing society. While they do not advertise, they are well known to those with special government approved drinking permits and those who drink in definite of state and religious laws. In fact, they are growing and expanding into soft drinks and energy drinks just to hedge their bets.

It is a very odd contradiction and a sign of possible changing times or at least increased globalization, and the mixing of cultures and peoples. From a beer drinkers perspective, this is interesting on a much more basic level. Assuming the ingredients are not all imported from the West, what special or interesting flavors and characteristics can be found in beer crafted in Pakistan? And, in a place with a growing market and less well defined beer traditions, what styling and experimentations infused with local and exotic character are possible? I don't plan on making the trip to Pakistan anytime soon, but if you are heading that way stop in and let us know what you think.

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