Old Freddy Walker, brewed by Justin Hawke’s Moor Brewery, in Bristol, has been named CAMRA champion winter beer of Britain.
Following more than a year of local tasting panels and regional heats leading up to the finals, Old Freddy Walker (7.5 % ABV) impressed judges at the National Winter Ales Festival, in Norwich, with its incredible balance of flavours. Moor Brewery made CAMRA history earlier this year after producing the first real ale in a can to be accredited by the consumer organisation.
The champion winter beer of Britain competition provides an opportunity to showcase the best traditional winter brews in the country, in categories including barley wine, strong old ales, porters and stouts.
The competition marks the first day of the National Winter Ales Festival, which is running from tomorrow until Saturday at The Halls in Norwich. The festival will feature a range of ales from traditional dark, strong winter ales to light hoppy ales. Visitors will have the chance to enjoy live music and visit local pubs across the city centre, which will be extending the festivities outside the Halls with fringe events such as brewery tours and pub quizzes.
Nick Boley, CAMRA’s national director responsible for the competition, said: “Congratulations to Moor Brewery for winning the champion winter beer of Britain award for its Old Freddy Walker brew, which is one of the highest accolades in the beer world.
“The judges were particularly impressed with the fantastic balance in this brew. It was a strong ale, with a rich flavour perfectly balanced between chocolate, honey, dark roasts and a hint of liquorice. It is a beer to sip and enjoy, particularly as a dessert.”
Justin Hawke moved to the UK and bought the brewery after falling in love with beer while on military service in Germany.
He said: “Old Freddy Walker is a favourite all-rounder at beer festivals thanks to its distinct and balanced flavour — something that was recognised again by the judges.
“The award is a nod to Moor Beer’s commitment in producing what we call ‘modern real ale’. My journey so far has taken in the intense hop flavours of my native California, the naturally hazy beers of Germany and my love of the British brewing tradition of secondary fermentation and finely balanced and drinkable beers.
“Combined with the highest standards and our insistence of flavoursome unfined beers, it is clearly a winning approach. We are delighted to see how people enjoy what we are so dedicated to produce.
“As our brewery is about to celebrate its tenth anniversary in the summer, this is further recognition that we are making great progress. We are focused on the future and brewing more so we can bring modern real ales to a growing audience of discerning drinkers!”
This year’s silver went to Sulwath’s Black Galloway, while Magic Rock’s Dark Arts took home the bronze award.
