The results of the inaugural Beer Awards, run by the drinks competitions specialist, the IWSC Group, have been announced.

The Beer Awards’ aim is to highlight exceptional beers in order to make consumer drinking choices easier. The medals are designed to act as a credible point of difference on a crowded shelf and influence purchasing decisions both in the on- and off-trade.

Launched at Craft Beer Rising earlier this year, the awards have seen some exceptional entries across a number of categories from pale ales to dark lagers.

Beer AwardsEight breweries received the highest accolade, a 5* award, including: Vedett Extra White, a wheat beer from Duvel Moortgat UK; Mad Goose, a fruity pale ale from Purity Brewing Company; and 6 Vintage Blend, from Sharps Brewery. These won best in show for their respective categories: wheat beer, bitter and pale ale. Other best in show winners included Cut Loose, from PowderKeg Brewery, which was awarded best lager, and Imperial Nibs, from Kereru Brewing Company, which was named best stout/porter.

Alex Barlow, of Sentinel Brewing, and chairman of the judges, said: “This new competition can only go from strength to strength, with experienced full-time staff ensuring that the samples are put in front of the judges with pure professionalism. [This] can only enhance the judging process, and give every beer the best possible chance of an award.”

Brewing giants such as AB InBev and Adnams picked up awards for Stella Artois and Ghost Ship respectively, alongside much smaller brewers, such as Gipsy Hill Brewing Co and Windswept Brewing Co, who took awards for Southpaw (amber ale) and Bear (Russian imperial stout).

Sub-categories such as smoked beer saw some excellent results, with St Austell Brewery picking up a 4* for Smoking Guns. Boston Beer Company took home an impressive 18 awards for its range, including flagship Samuel Adams Boston Lager.

Ewan Lacey, managing director of the IWSC Group, said: “The sheer volume and variety of entries this year have surpassed expectations and we are incredibly excited to grow the awards and recognise as many outstanding beers as possible in the future.” You can find out more about The Beer Awards at www.thebeerawards.com. Entrance for next year’s awards opens in February.