The mountains are often recounted, from architecture to agriculture, evoking ancient traditions... as if it were essential to protect and maintain everything as it once was.
Undoubtedly, historical roots are to be known in depth and are fundamental for enhancing an area. The real innovative force introduced, however, by local entrepreneurs in recent years lies in re-reading the past with an eye to the future. With this brief introduction, it becomes easier to recount the adventure of Michel Becquet of Ayas, a beer artisan.The strength of his idea lies in his passion for beer and his land. After the first few years of tests carried out in collaboration with larger craft brewers, Michel opened his independent craft brewery 'La Bière d'Ayas' in Champoluc: it is the beginning of a virtuous path that has led to an increase in the cultivation of barley and wheat on the best exposed slopes of the valley, where terracing for agricultural use once dominated (found the historical link!). Completing the beer chain in Ayas is now no longer a dream, it is a reality that adds new pieces with each year of life.
"Ayas Pale Ale", "Champoluc I.P.A.", "Lignod Roggenbier", "Antagnod A.P.A." and "Cuneaz Russian Imperial Stout": these are the types of beer to be sipped while discovering, why not, also the places where they are named.
Where can we find them? In grocery stores and in many bars and restaurants in Val d'Ayas, because the current small production is consumed almost entirely in the valley!