Data & Hop: Uiltje Brewery and Data Science Lab return with data-driven beer!
10-04-2025Haarlem/Amsterdam - Four years after brewing the Netherlands' first data-driven beer, Brewery Uiltje and Data Science Lab are joining forces once again. This time, with an innovative twist: two hyperlocal beers, fully tailored to the flavor preferences of residents in Haarlem and Amsterdam. By combining advanced data analysis with the expertise of local specialists, a unique beer experience has been created—perfectly aligned with regional tastes. These beers are not only a technical masterpiece but also an homage to the cities where both companies have their roots.
From data to craft beer: an ode to Haarlem and Amsterdam
Back in 2021, brewer Uiltje and data & AI consultancy firm Data Science Lab (DSL) shook up the beer world with the first fully data-driven NEIPA, developed based on analysis of consumer preferences. Now, in 2025, Uiltje and DSL are taking it a step further. The question: are there measurable taste differences between neighboring cities? And how can data play a role in brewing beers that align with these regional preferences?
They found the answer in thousands of beer reviews, local trends, and consumer data. Using a combination of web scraping and machine learning, DSL analyzed the flavor profiles of Amsterdam and Haarlem residents. The results were clear: while both cities are fans of NEIPA, Amsterdam leans more toward tropical, juicy, and creamy flavors, while Haarlem prefers fresh, citrusy tones with a subtle tartness.
Two cities, two flavors, two distinct beers
The data analysis led to the creation of two exclusive beers, each tailored to the taste preferences of its city:
1. Amsterdam NEIPA (6.5%) – Brewed with three spectacular hop varieties and a hybrid Pomona yeast, this beer results in a creamy, tropical, and smooth NEIPA. A beer as smooth as the Jordaan and malty enough to stay the course on the bike path. It’s a tribute to the city and its rich history, presented as a gift to all Amsterdammers in celebration of Amsterdam's 750th anniversary.
2. Haarlem Session NEIPA (4.8%) – With grapefruit notes from Citra hops and the spicy character of Motueka hops, this easy-going NEIPA is a fresh tribute to the city. As lively as the Grote Markt, but just as unspoiled as the Kennemer Dunes. This beer celebrates Haarlem as the home of Brewery Uiltje and pays homage to the region’s rich beer culture.
Beer and data: a future-proof pairing
This collaboration not only underscores the innovative spirit of both companies, but also demonstrates that data and beer are a future-proof combination in the brewing process. “Local brewing is more popular than ever,” says Koen Koopen, Principal Consultant Data Science at DSL. “Through data analysis, we can not only map flavor preferences but also predict trends and create beers that perfectly match regional tastes. This approach proves that data and craftsmanship strengthen each other and can lead to a new level of beer innovation.”
For Brewery Uiltje—now a well-established name in the Dutch craft beer scene—this project is a chance to show how innovation and tradition can go hand in hand. “We're always looking for new ways to brew the most challenging beers,” says Mattia Mantovani, Uiltje’s head brewer. “With DSL, we’ve shown that data can play a crucial role in flavor development. This project proves that data and craft are a perfect match.”
Beginning the week of April 14th, the beers will be available in Haarlem, Amsterdam, and through the Uiltje webshop. Beer lovers and data enthusiasts alike can look forward to a tasting experience that brings them closer to home—both literally and figuratively.