Data & hops: brewing another data-driven beer sensation with Uiltje

Four years after brewing the first Dutch data-driven beer, Brouwerij Uiltje and Data Science Lab are joining forces again. This time, with an innovative twist: two hyperlocal beers shaped by the taste preferences of people in Haarlem and Amsterdam.

By combining advanced data analysis with the expertise of local specialists, they have created a unique beer experience that reflects regional preferences. These beers are not only technical achievements, but also a tribute to the cities where both companies have their roots.

From data to craft beer: a tribute to Haarlem and Amsterdam

In 2021, brewer Uiltje and data & AI consultancy Data Science Lab (DSL) shook up the beer world with the first fully data-driven NEIPA, developed using an analysis of consumer preferences. Now, in 2025, Brouwerij Uiltje and DSL are taking it a step further. The question: are there measurable differences in taste between neighbouring cities? And how can data help brew beers that reflect 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 analysed the taste profiles of people in Amsterdam and Haarlem. The results were clear: while both cities are fans of NEIPA, Amsterdam showed a stronger preference for tropical, juicy and creamy flavours, while Haarlem favoured fresh, citrus notes with a subtle tartness.

Two cities, two tastes, two different beers

The data analysis led to the creation of two exclusive beers, each shaped by its city’s taste preferences:

1. Amsterdam NEIPA (6.5%) – Brewed with three hop varieties and hybrid Pomona yeast, this is a creamy, tropical and smooth NEIPA. A beer as smooth as the Jordaan and malty enough to hold its course on the cycle path. This beer pays tribute to the city and its rich history. It is presented as a gift to everyone in Amsterdam to mark the city’s 750th anniversary.
2. Haarlem Session NEIPA (4.8%) – With grapefruit notes from Citra hops and the spicy flavour of Motueka hops, this easy-going NEIPA is a fresh ode to the city. As lively as the Grote Markt, yet as unspoilt as the Kennemerduinen. This beer celebrates Haarlem as the city where Brouwerij Uiltje has its roots and pays tribute to the region’s rich beer culture.

Beer and data: a combination built for the future

This collaboration highlights the innovative approach of both companies and shows how data and beer can work together in the brewing process for years to come. “Local brewing is more popular than ever,” says Koen Koopen, Principal Consultant Data Science at DSL. “With data analysis, we can do more than map taste preferences. We can also predict trends and create beers that match regional preferences. This approach shows that data and craftsmanship reinforce each other and can take beer innovation to a new level.”

For Brouwerij Uiltje, now an established name in the Dutch craft beer scene, this project is an opportunity to show how innovation and tradition go hand in hand. “We’re always looking for new ways to brew the most challenging beers,” says Mattia Mantovani, head brewer at Uiltje. “With DSL, we’re showing that data can play a crucial role in flavour development. This project proves that data and craft go hand in hand.”

The beers will be available in Haarlem and Amsterdam from the start of next week, as well as through the Uiltje online shop. Beer lovers and data enthusiasts can look forward to a tasting experience that brings them closer to home, both literally and figuratively.