South Australia’s Uraidla Brewing has claimed the top honor at the 2024 Independent Beer Awards with its Vampiric Throne IPA, marking the first time a red IPA has taken the Best Independent Beer title. Chosen from over 1,000 entries, this victory underscores the brewery’s exceptional craftsmanship.
The accolade comes just two months after the arrival of Uraidla Brewing’s new Head Brewer, Max Bowering. At only 24 years old, Bowering’s success highlights the talent and dedication of the new generation of independent brewers.
Held in Perth last week, the awards ceremony attracted around 350 attendees. The event was hosted by Craig Williams of Moffat Beach Brewing Co and Bronte O’Donoghue of Eagle Bay Brewing Co.
Judging took place over three days with 50 judges evaluating 1,028 entries, resulting in the awarding of 904 medals: 151 gold, 387 silver, and 366 bronze. Additionally, 21 breweries received Champion Trophies, including nine first-time winners.
Fresh Faces and New Talent
Independent Brewers Association (IBA) CEO Kylie Lethbridge expressed delight at seeing numerous first-time winners.
“We saw some really small breweries, very new breweries, and different faces on the podium, which was fantastic. It was wonderful to see a couple of WA brewers, one of whom opened only this year, winning a trophy at both the AIBAs and the Indies,” she said.
Lethbridge also emphasized the importance of the awards in fostering new talent in beer judging.
“We support local judges and had many new people judging this year. We’ve created pathways through the judging process, from stewarding to associate judging to senior judges, which is now yielding results,” she said.
Head Judge Justin Fox praised the quality of this year’s entries and the expertise of the judging panels.
“The calibre of the judging panels was first-class, with representation from all corners of our industry. Each judge brought unique skills and perspectives, contributing to a high-quality assessment process,” he said.
Supporting WA Breweries
The awards coincided with the Western Australian Brewers Association (WABA) conference and the launch of a 10-year craft brewing strategy developed by the IBA, WABA, South West Brewers Alliance, and the WA government. This synergy created an energetic and vibrant awards night.
“There was a real buzz in the room, and people enjoyed catching up. It was a great day, different from past events, which contributed to a wonderful vibe at the ceremony,” Lethbridge noted.
IBA Chair Callum Reeves highlighted the benefits of hosting the awards in Perth for the local industry.
“Two years ago, we envisioned moving this significant industry event around the country to showcase local beer and the supporting community. This year, there was an increase in entries from WA breweries, despite the higher costs of sending beer across the country,” he said.
Lethbridge added, “We were pleased with the overall number of entries, especially considering the industry’s tight times.”
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