This year’s competition attracted almost 1,000 entries – a significant increase on the field in 2011, when the bi-annual event was last held. Beers and ciders were submitted from more than 45 countries by producers from regional micro-brewers to multinational companies.
Chair of judges Bill Taylor said: “The number and diversity of entries demonstrate the support for the competition from all parts of the global brewing community, as does the willingness of the 40 expert brewers and cider makers to give up their time to judge.
“This year, we reintroduced two cider categories, after an absence of many decades. Given that this was effectively new ground for us, we’re pleased with the response and will be looking to develop this in the 2015 awards.”
The medal winners were announced in front of an audience of more than 100 competitors, judges and industry and local guests. Bronze, Silver and Gold medals were awarded, while the 11 overall Championship winners – nine beers and two ciders – will be unveiled at an awards luncheon at London Guildhall on 24 April.