Cornwall’s only certified Organic small batch brewer, Atlantic Brewery, has announced a partnership with one of the world’s largest ocean yacht races.
It will be the official drink partner of the MailASail AZAB Azores and Back Race, which departs Falmouth on June 1.
From its smallholding near Newquay, Atlantic has been brewing speciality beers for 14 years. Head brewer, Stuart Thomson, is a passionate advocate of organic farming and sustainable brewing practices, and grows many of the ingredients used in his beer himself, including his own organic Fuggles hops.
Atlantic’s Azores has been one of its most popular beers since its arrival on the Cornish beer scene in 2014. Packed with citrussy, sub-tropical notes and a harmonious balance of American and English hops, it is a mid-Atlantic pale ale.
Stuart said: “Obviously the name makes us the ideal partner, but we got involved because we admire the ethos of the race. In these times when bigger, faster and more technically advanced is often judged as best, we like the idea of championing an endurance race that attracts racers from all walks of life.”
1,250-mile sea journey
By far the biggest ocean yacht race to run from the UK, the Azores and Back contest is held every four years, and this year will be its 12th outing. Competitors set sail for the Azores from the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, in Falmouth, to tackle a 1,250-mile journey across open sea.
The race is Corinthian in spirit, with the vast majority of entrants in the 30ft to 40ft cruiser category. There is no prize money, with father and son, father and daughter, sister and sister, and husband and wife teams all doing it for the love of sailing. They are often joined by a few celebrated sailing greats, who embrace the fundamental spirit of the race.
The race departs from Falmouth on June 1, and is preceded by several days of celebrations in and around the town. The Azores Pale Ale will be available at venues throughout the town during race month, including at the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club itself, and limited edition bottles will be available mail order from Atlantic’s distributor Ellis Wharton Wines.
