A non-alcoholic pale ale made in Cornwall has been named the best in Britain at the World Beer Awards.
Launceston-based Firebrand Brewing Co's Shorebreak (0.5% ABV) is a tropical-flavoured hazy pale ale made with Simcoe, citra and cascade. It is also gluten free and suitable for vegans.
The World Beer Awards is a global competition that takes place every year and is judged by a panel of experts from around the world.
Joe Thomson, co-owner and head brewer at Firebrand Brewing Co, said: “We’re thrilled to have won this prestigious accolade for our much-loved Shorebreak.
"It has already gained itself a huge fan base amongst our customers but it is incredibly rewarding to also be recognised by the World Beer panel of judges, who are real experts in their field. We fought off stiff competition to be named best in Britain, in a rapidly growing category.â€
Mr Thompson established Firebrand Brewing Co in 2012 in a converted milking parlour on the edge of Bodmin Moor and the business moved to Launceston 2021.
He added: “When I set up the brewery more than 10 years ago, I had no intention of creating alcohol-free beer but when I recently took up running, I needed an alternative to my daily pint, to help keep my training on track.
"That’s when I created Shorebreak. The response has been overwhelming and it has quickly become one of our best-selling beers. It is hugely satisfying to know that the experts love it too.â€
Last month, Firebrand installed two new 7,500-litre fermentation vessels to boost brewing capacity amid surging demand. Sales at the brewery are soaring, outstripping previous years, Mr Thompson added.
“We believe that this is an upward trend so we decided to invest in two additional fermentation vessels. We are delighted that these have now been installed and we hope that the extra 15,000 litres will ensure we always have our customers’ favourite beers in stock," he said.
The two new tanks will increase Firebrand’s brewing capability by 30% and the company has also invested in a new delivery van to meet its expanding local delivery schedule.
