In this captivating chat, Dylan McDonnell shares his extraordinary journey of recreating a 3,000-year-old Egyptian beer in Utah. Inspired by his passion for brewing, his academic background in Middle East Studies, and an unexpected love for Excel spreadsheets, Dylan embarked on a quest to make the most authentic ancient beer possible. This adventure started with his fascination for sour beers and a deep dive into historical brewing methods.
Dylan explains that the project was driven by his curiosity about ancient brews and the challenges of using ancient ingredients. He sourced heirloom grains like purple Egyptian barley and emmer wheat, as well as exotic ingredients such as Israeli and golden raisins, desert dates, prickly juniper berries, and frankincense. Each ingredient was carefully selected to match historical accuracy, despite the difficulties and costs involved.
The key component of his project was the yeast, which was extracted from ancient vessels in Israel. After persistent efforts, Dylan managed to obtain a pre-market sample of this yeast, which had been dormant for millennia. This yeast played a crucial role in replicating the authentic taste of the ancient beer, as it had the unique properties of the strains used thousands of years ago.
Throughout the conversation, Dylan emphasizes the importance of historical fidelity. He shares how his initial plan evolved into a meticulous reconstruction without compromises. His dedication to authenticity extended to every detail, ensuring that the beer was as true to the ancient recipe as possible. This unwavering commitment is what made his project stand out and garnered significant attention, including coverage by major media outlets like the New York Times.
Dylan’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. By combining his interests in brewing, history, and a bit of modern technology, he achieved something remarkable. His project not only brings a piece of ancient history to life but also inspires others to pursue their unique ideas with the same level of dedication and enthusiasm.