Beer writer and long-time International Beer Challenge (IBC) captain Des de Moor passed away this weekend. 

One of the beer trade’s most prominent voices, de Moor began writing about beer around 2000 and has since contributed to various magazines, alongside publishing several books, including Cask: The Real Story of Britain’s Unique Beer Culture. 

He also gained a reputation as a knowledgeable beer judge and, outside of drinks, was known as a passionate musician and member of the Ramblers’ Association. 

In response to the news of de Moor’s passing, many in the trade have commented on his legacy. 

The British Guild of Beer Writers said: “The Guild board is desperately sad to hear that long-time Guild member and wonderful writer Des de Moor has passed away. 

“He’ll be hugely missed by the industry as a whole, as well as those who knew and worked with him. The Guild would like to express their condolences to his friends and family, and to say that we will continue to champion the great work he did in the beer world.” 

A statement from St Albans Beer & Cider Festival, added: “Des will be a great loss to the beer world – we feel extremely fortunate to have had him play a part in our event, and have had the opportunity to get to know him and learn from him through working together. Our thoughts and condolences to Des’s family and friends.” 

At the same time, fellow IBC judge Jeff Evans, said: “I am so sad to hear about Des. He was a good, kind and generous friend as well as a totally reliable and incredibly wise colleague who set standards in beer writing that others knew they had to follow. 

“He became an acknowledged expert in bottled beer and wrote award-winning books on London’s best pubs and the concept of cask beer that illustrated just how diligent and fastidious he was about getting things right, conveying his message accurately and succinctly, without any pretentiousness or hubris. 

“He judged with us at the IBC for many years, usually as a table captain – so highly did we regard his knowledge, his experience and his ability to bring the best out in other judges.  

“But all this was just one side of Des’s colourful life. He worked for the Rambler’s Association for a number of years and was also a professional musician and singer who specialised in European chanson. Many people will have been touched by Des’s work, enthusiasm and plain decency in one way or another. He will be a great loss to us all.”