BierTalk English 35 – Talk with Dr. Juan Ignacio Eizaguirre, "yeast hunter" from TU Munich Research Center Weihenstephan

Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to a man with what might be one of the most intriguing jobs in the brewing industry – yeast hunter Juan Ignacio Eizaguirre. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with roots in the Basque Country, Juan has traveled the world in search of wild yeast, uncovering the secrets of fermentation. From the forests of Patagonia to ancient beer caves in Germany, he has dedicated his career to exploring the biological foundations of beer and pushing the boundaries of brewing science. Currently based in Bavaria at the world-renowned Weihenstephan, Juan is part scientist, part adventurer, and a true pioneer in discovering how yeast shapes the beers we love. In this episode, Juan takes us on a journey through his work and passion – mapping yeast diversity, uncovering the mysteries of ancient strains like Saccharomyces eubayanus, and transforming his findings into innovations for brewers worldwide. He also shares his experiences in Argentina's thriving craft beer scene, his adventures in South America, and what it’s really like to hunt for yeast in some of the most remote and historic locations on the planet. So grab your favorite beer and join us as we delve into the incredible stories, science, and spirit of the yeast hunter, Juan Ignacio Eizaguirre...