International Beer Challenge – 2010
July 19, 2010
I recently attended the 2010 International Beer Challenge awards presentation on behalf of The Brew Club. The IBC sees itself (and who am I to argue) as the premier Global awards for packaged (ie bottled beers).
As well as ‘the usual subjects’ – beers from the UK and USA, there were a considerable number of beers from Australia and Italy, and other brews from as far away as El Salvador.
The Italian brews were particularly interesting – brewing in Italy is coming up with some exciting beers… keep an eye out for beers from “Birra Toccalmatto” , “Birrificio Turbacci”, “Birrificio Cittavecchia”and “Birrificio Del Ducato” all of whom won medals.
It’s probably worth noting that the following trophies were awarded :
Best Low Alcohol Beer – Bill Brewer from Harvey and Son (2nd year running)
Best Ale – Highlander from Fyne Ales (Scotland – 2nd year running)
Best Stout or Porter – Vital Spark from Fyne Ales (Scotland)
Best Wheat Beer – Weihenstephan Hefe Weissbier (Germany – 2nd year running)
Best Lager – Sam Adams Noble Pils (USA)
Best Specialty – Sam Adams Utopia 2009
Supreme Champion – Sam Adams Utopia 2009.
While I was there I also managed to get a photograph of me with the lone ‘bottle’ of 2009 Utopia on display… which I subsequently sampled and reveled in its rich, warm, almost Cognac or Armagnac flavours. Having experimented with some of the super strength beer recently, this was a true revelation and a worthy Supremem Champion. I think that, in a blind tasting, I’d have identified it as a brandy, rather than anything made with mere malt and hops.
I also managed to grab a drink with Pete Brown, who recently wrote one of the best articles on the state of British Brewing that I’ve read for a very long time. Pete conceded that his article had been ’simmering’ for quite a while.
I also caught up with Steve Williams – the ‘Official London Beer Taster’ – whom I barely recognised in a sensible shirt!
Steve and I agreed to meet up in a few weeks for a quiet beer, or two. Needless to say, I’ll keep The Brew Club informed!
Posted in Other Stuff, Views from a Brit
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July 19th, 2010 at 9:15 am
Sounds like a good time Bob! You’re looking very dapper BTW!
Scott-TheBrewClub´s last blog ..Sierra Nevada Kellerweis
July 19th, 2010 at 11:10 am
I snuck out during an extended lunch break, hence the ‘whistle’.
It was absolutely roasting in the venue, but fortunately there was plenty of refreshment on hand.
Bob the Brit´s last blog ..Paperback Writer
July 19th, 2010 at 11:39 am
…and good refreshments at that!
Scott-TheBrewClub´s last blog ..What’s Your Favorite Summer Beer
July 19th, 2010 at 11:42 am
I could t3ell you were roasting! I thought that might be a touch of perspiration in the photo with Steve Williams. Who cares though? You got to sample some great brews, good on ya!
Don´s last blog ..Oskar Blues Hits a Low Note
July 20th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
I know exactly what you mean about calling it a brandy rather than a beer. I’ve got a bottle of 2007 that I’m cellaring for the next several years and I can’t wait to see how it tastes. I reviewed the other bottle on the site and shared it over the period of a year or so. It is a truly great beer and a revelatory experience for super beers.
michael reinhardt´s last blog ..Lambic- A Surprisingly Drinkable Beer
July 21st, 2010 at 4:40 am
I have a bottle of the 1994 Sam Adams triple Bock that I’m saving until 2014. I had one bottle with friends on 1st Janauary 2000 (at about a minute past midnight).
But in terms of beers that punch about their weight, flavour wise, then you have to also consider Duchesse du Burgogne, or Rodenbach Grand Cru… both incredibly complex brews.
Actually, I don’t think I’ve reviewed Rodenbach for the Brewclub. Hmmm….
July 21st, 2010 at 8:27 am
I don’t think so either, Bob. Another tough assignment for you!!!!
Scott-TheBrewClub´s last blog ..Sunny and 75 – Rock Art Brewery
July 21st, 2010 at 2:41 pm
That Utpoias looks like an award you’ve just won, Bob. I’d like to thank the Academy for…
July 21st, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Rodenbach. I love that beer. I remember buying it for my brother a couple years back (the Grand Cru) and he hated it. Now he can’t get enough sours.
michael reinhardt´s last blog ..Buckbean’s Maibock
July 21st, 2010 at 6:50 pm
Hahaha totally agree with Jim – Bob is doing the “Oscar acceptance” pose with the Utopia. Also what’s with your “no smiling in photos” policy Bob?
Gotta admit I’d never even heard of the Sam Adams Utopia. But now that I have… where can I find that thing? Sounds fantastic.
Royce´s last blog ..Weekend Comedy 7-18
July 22nd, 2010 at 3:28 am
Guilty as charged guys, I don’t do the smiley smiley thing very well, and I was being very careful holding the Utopia.
It was the only bottle present, and was shared out later in the afternoon so we could all enjoy a taste.
I think if I’d dropped it I would have been (justifiably) lynched by all those present.
Off on a Rodenbach hunt later.
Bob Massey´s last blog ..Paperback Writer