Okell’s Brewery was named as the best of the best in beer and cider at the International Brewing and Cider Awards 2019, scooping the Class 1 category for Cask Ale award.

The competition – attracting entries from 200+ breweries and cider mills from around World – was judged by an international panel of 50 judges.

Over 1000 beers and ciders from 50 countries were submitted for judging, which took place over an intensive three-day period.

Judging categories ranged from ultra-low ABV beers to high-strength styles, showcasing the versatility and variety found in modern-day brewing.

An International Brewing & Cider Awards medal is considered among the industry’s most coveted awards. Established in 1888, the International Brewing & Cider Awards aim to reward and recognise the innovation, attention to detail and hard work that goes into beer and cider production.

Kevin Holmes, Okell’s Head Brewer said: “Okell’s has a long history of being an internationally award-winning brewery and, as our first major medal win since I became Head Brewer, it makes me very proud to continue that incredible tradition.”

The awards culminated with the medal presentations at London’s Guildhall, where members of the international brewing and cider-making community came together to discover and celebrate the 2019 trophy winners. 

Speaking of this year’s medal winners, Ruth Evans MBE, Director of Brewing Technology Services who oversaw the awards, said: “It brings me great pleasure to announce the medal winners, and no small measure of pride to be involved in our fantastic industry.

These awards are a bastion of excellence, and we are always sincerely impressed by the talent of the medal winners.

With each round of awards, the standards are pushed ever higher. Competition is fierce, and receiving a medal is an achievement to be truly proud of. My congratulations to all!”