A joyful marriage of art and science. That is how the six-strong team behind Rurale view the beer-making process. It is a philosophy that has propelled Rurale into the Serie A of Italian beer producers and into the hearts of its drinkers. The operation began in 2009 when a group of four home-brewing enthusiasts (and one wine lover) decided to pool their skills and start up their own brewery in the small Northern town of Certosa di Pavia. Things have changed a little since. Rurale gained a sixth co-owner when Luca Franceschi, a graphic designer, offered his services, while they have also since relocated to Desio (fifteen miles from Milan) to allow for expansion. Nevertheless, the owners remain loyal to their original vision. As seen through the artfulness of the labels and the rigorous science applied to the brewing process, but also in its ongoing commitment to quality raw materials. The name of Rurale, meaning rural, has always been much more than a clever pun. Anglo-American styles are favoured, with English hops used and IPAs and APAs among its range, but there are plenty of Italian flourishes to look out for among Rurale’s brews, too. Note the use of chestnut honey in Oasi and the bergamot-inspired Seta Special, both of which are available from Beers from Italy.