Phil Cotton and Karin Ashwell from Bath Ales (centre) joined on the right by category sponsor Grant Thornton and the left by Tom Herbert at Hobbs House Bakery
Bath Ales is toasting success after being named best drinks producer at an awards ceremony which celebrates the best in the West.
Renowned for its high-quality ales, Bath Ales scooped prize at the Western Daily Press Food and Farming Awards. The South West brewer pipped Thatchers Cider and several other contenders in a strong shortlist of finalists.
The entries in the category were judged on two criteria, provenance and taste, both attributes Bath Ales prides itself on.
The brewery, based between Bristol and Bath, combines traditional brewing techniques with cutting-edge technology and extensive brewing knowledge to produce high-quality, great tasting beers. Its flagship ale, Gem, has been a consistent award winner during its 21 years of production.
Roger Jones, managing director at Bath Ales, said: “We are thrilled to have been recognised as best drinks producer at these awards. It was an incredibly strong category so to have come out on top is fantastic recognition for the quality of our beers.
“It’s even more rewarding when the entrants are judged on a taste test and not just a written entry. The judges were looking for the most interesting, tastiest drink and that’s what they got from Bath Ales.”
He added: “We have an outstanding team of brewers who are dedicated to creating the most flavoursome, quality beers. This award is testament to the passion and hard work of our staff.
“These awards highlight the incredible food and farming producers in the West Country. Congratulations to all the other winners and finalists – it was an honour to be counted amongst them.”
The Hop Pole, a Bath Ales pub, was also a finalist in the best pub category.
