The top accolade is widely respected across the industry and he joins a glittering list of former winners, including Meantime Brewing Company’s founder and master brewer Alastair Hook, Emma Gilleland, supply chain director for Marston’s, and Fuller's head brewer John Keeling.
Vialan, a Frenchman who hails from Lyon, has been head brewer with Purity, the eco-friendly brewer, for nearly 11 years. He has a degree in environmental science and agriculture and has been crucial in Purity’s development of all their beers.
“It’s not often you get to combine your work with one of your hobbies and I feel privileged that I get to do this every day,” said Vialan.
“It’s not just for me though, this award I would like to share with my excellent brewing team at Purity who continue to push boundaries, strive to improve each day and ensure the beer we brew is the best possible. I’d like to thank the APPBG for this award and also the whole team at Purity as I couldn't do my job if it wasn't for the rest of the guys doing theirs. It truly is a team effort!”
Purity managing director Paul Halsey said: “He is one of the most dedicated, meticulous and driven brewers I have ever met, as well as being a central part of the Purity family. So this award is very well deserved. I take particular pride in Flo’s journey with us here at the brewery, but even more so in the fact he didn’t know about the nomination and had to get up on stage in front of so many people. Nice one Flo.”