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It's time to take a little time out, stand back and admire the remarkable edifice that is my Scotland series. And ask myself a few questions. Mostly why, but also a little where to and until when.

Let's start with some why. Simple: I wasn't satisfied the accounts of Scottish beer history that had been published. As no-one else looked about to tackle it, I was left with only one alternative: do it myself. I can't claim to fully understand the story yet. But I've glimpsed pieces. You should have, too. If you've been following closely.

This is both a how and a why. Getting access to the British Newspaper archive has provided more material than I can handle, to be honest. Then there's that pile of Brewers' Journals I recently acquired. More stuff in them. The series has continued because I keep finding new material that I at least find interesting. (I understand my interest threshold lies in a different place to yours.) If it runs out, I'll stop. Not the greatest of reasons.

Where to's turn now. Where will this end? Actually, I think I just answered that question. Not in a very satisfactory way, admittedly. When I think you've learned enough. Sorry, that's the wrong answer. That comes next. Where? With a better understanding of Scottish beer. At knowledge corner about to turn down wisdom street.

When. When will I for the love of humanity stop? When I think you've learned enough. (Yep, that's the right place.)

I'm basically selfish. Whatever I might pretend to the kids. Why? Because it interests me, that's why I'm digging exploratory trenches across the barrow of Scottish brewing. Why do I continue? Nothing else has attracted my attention.


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