The Champion Beer of Britain (CBOB) Award was once again handed to a brewer belonging to the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) at the Great British Beer Festival today. Six of the seven class winners were also SIBA members.
The victory for Coniston Brewing Company means that 12 of the last 13 CBOB winners have come from within the SIBA ranks, as well as the vast majority of class medals. Coniston’s No.9 Barley Wine lifted the top award after winning its category in CAMRA’s Winter Ales competition earlier this year and being judged today alongside the other category winners.
Success leads to distribution and sales
Success at the Great British Beer Festival delivers publicity that leads to increased interest, distribution and sales: the excellent beers produced by Coniston and the other winners now have the opportunity to reach a much wider drinking public.
SIBA chief executive Julian Grocock said:
“We are delighted that a SIBA brewer has again won CAMRA’s ultimate accolade. The fact that SIBA members consistently account for the bulk of the honours awarded at the GBBF is a testament to the quality of their beers.
“It is no exaggeration to say that the phenomenal growth of the UK craft beer sector could not have happened without SIBA’s members. Their tireless quest over several decades to produce high-quality, innovative beers is now being rewarded as increasing numbers of licensees extend their craft beer offer to satisfy their customer’s growing thirst.”
The full list of winners
Champion Beer of Britain: Coniston Brewing Company, No.9 Barley Wine
Dark & Light Milds: Rudgate Brewery, Ruby Mild
Bitters: Purple Moose Brewery, Snowdonia Ale
Best Bitters: Green Jack Brewery, Trawlerboys Best Bitter
Golden Ales: Dark Star Brewery, American Pale Ale
Strong Bitters: Dark Star Brewery, Festival
Speciality Beers: Dunham Massey Brewery, Chocolate Cherry Mild (non-SIBA member)
Real Ale in a Bottle: Stewart Brewery, Embra