I'm interested in MJ's classic/groundbreaking works (eg the World Guide to Beer) and wonder if they are still relevant and good reads. Or recommendations for any of his works in general, really.
Definitely. They're the books that did the most to nurture my interest in different beers and I still turn to them for their information.
Michael Jackson's writing will always be relevant. I see so many younger BAs that are not grounded in the classics of the beer world. MJ gives perspective on why different beer styles exist where they exist. I also highly recommend his classic Beer Hunter TV series. These are available on YouTube.
and The Beer Hunter screening at Green Flash last night was freaking awesome. If you get the opportunity definitely go watch it.
I caught some of them already and his entry in that Beer Encyclopedia piqued my interest. Thanks for the feedback guys, I'll be sure to check some out.
Excellent books which any beer enthusiast should enjoy. It has to be borne in mind that he wrote them without the benefit of later research .
Definitely still worth reading - I just recently bought a couple actually. Also, you can find used copies of most of his books for like $2-5 each.
Ultimate Beer is still a worthwhile read. Most of the beers in there are still being produced and haven't changed that much. I bought it years ago when I was just trying a lot of beer. That book got me a lot more into pairing with food, seasonal drinking, and really picking up on aroma/flavor profiles. Bonus is you can probably get them on the cheap through resalers or discount bookstores.
yeah, i don't know of anyone ever stating that MJs books are over rated or not worth the time. get one. then get another and all the rest if you can. get some good beer to go with the reading. on fact, 5 o'clock! i am going to go drink a beer and read a random chapter. Cheers.
