Michael Jackson has passed away

We have lost a great beer personality. Michael Jackson (Born 27 March 1942 – Died 30 August 2007) was an English writer and beer journalist.

Michael Jackson was the author of several books about beer and whisky. Not surprisingly he was called The Beer Hunter, as he went around the world hunting for great beers.

Michael Jackson became famous amongst beer lovers when he published 'The World Guide To Beer'. A book that has since been translated into more than ten languages and is still considered to be one of the most fundamental books on the subject. One of my favorites is the Pocket Beer Book, which can be tucked away in your pocket as you do your own beer hunting.

Although he travelled around the world and discovered different beer cultures, he was especially fond of the Belgian beers. He was appointed to an honorary officer of the Ridderschap van de Roerstok in 1997 for his important contribution to the international success of the Belgian beers. This honor had previously only been given to brewers. His books reflects beer culture from all over the world.

I have just recently discovered that he was suffering from Parkinson's Disease. Michael Jackson died in his home the morning of August 30, 2007 at the age of 65.

He gave me and many other a language for describing beer and taught so many of us to speak it.

Our beer community has lost a good friend and beer hunter.