Homebrewers and spectators from across the UK gathered at the Castle Hotel, in Aberystwyth, for a tournament organised by homebrew company Mashed.
Some of the judging panel, deliberating over the 27 entries. Photograph: Henry Perks
Inspired by the FA Cup, the tournament put a spin on usual homebrew competitions, which traditionally judge entries individually, based on the style of beer.
It was judged by ten beer fans and experts, including landlords and staff from The Castle Hotel, Bottle & Barrel, and Ship & Castle in Aberystwyth, and members of CAMRA Bae Ceredigion. There were 27 brews altogether, spanning 27 styles.
After five knockout rounds, the trophy and a £200 voucher from Mashed was won by David Clough, from Cornwall, with his black IPA, named Duke. The CAMRA judges considered Duke “a fantastic beer and a worthy winner”.
Tournament winner David Clough with his trophy and champion beer
David, who had travelled from Penzance for the event, sid: “I never expected to win, I just wanted to get through the first round. So progression was an exciting bonus.
“I’m planning ahead now for next year. The pressure’s on, I suppose, to defend my crown! Everybody was so friendly, despite the competition. It was a real pleasure.”
He beat runner-up Andrew Bradshaw and his strong Belgian blonde, Called On the Lash-oof!
Gareth Davies, of Mashed, the winning black IPA, Duke, and Yohanna, of Mashed
Mashed, which has recently opened a community homebrewing space in Aberystwyth, and which publishes a homebrewing magazine of the same name, is run by husband and wife team, Gareth Davies (from Dark Farm Homebrewing) and Yohanna Best.
“We wanted to turn the traditional homebrew competition on its head and make it a more spectator-friendly occasion, as well as being a challenge for the homebrewers”, said Gareth.
“The feedback we have received since the event has been incredible, and we’re excited that so many contestants came to Aberystwyth to see the tournament. The event wouldn’t have been possible without the support we’ve had from our amazing beer-loving community.”
Homebrewers are encouraged to pre-register for next year’s tournament at bit.ly/MashedTournament.
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