Alison Douglas

Laboratory Manager & Business Development Coordinator

Alison has managed the laboratory and yeast banks at Brewlab for 22 years. Prior to this she enjoyed 17 years working between the physical chemistry, microbiology, and analytical laboratories at Vaux brewery here in Sunderland. She admits to being a devoted ‘lab rat’ and never tires of new techniques (the craft brewers are always up to something of great interest!).

Alison also visits breweries to assist with hygiene issues, Food Safety and internal training of their staff in all areas of Quality. Taste training and use of microscopes are her favourite off site courses. “Brewers never fail to be amazed when they first see wild type yeast and bacteria down a microscope. Tie that in with the resulting off flavours that are produced in the product and the brewer is hooked”.

Huge varieties of beverages now pass through the laboratory door from beers pushing the boundaries (some even with no alcohol!), ciders, wines, spirits, cocktails, health drinks, cold coffees and many more.

Favourite drink-Quality control dictates that a 1ml sample is always taste tested, obviously for experimental reasons. As yet, there is no favourite, but she will continue her efforts to find one 😊!

Alison loves the brewing industry and could not think of a friendlier environment to work in. She considers herself very fortunate.