Uraidla Brewery, nestled in the picturesque Adelaide Hills, is toasting to a remarkable triumph at the 2024 Australian Independent Beer Awards (Indies). Their red IPA, Vampiric Throne, snagged the coveted title of Champion Australian Independent Beer, outshining over 1,000 other brews. This marks the first time in Indies history that a red IPA has clinched this prestigious award.
The competition was fierce, with almost 50 expert judges meticulously evaluating a staggering 1,028 beers over three days. Yet, Uraidla’s Vampiric Throne not only soared to victory in the Champion Amber-Dark Ale category, but also emerged as the overall champion, leaving an indelible mark on the Australian craft beer scene.
For Max Bowering, the young head brewer who joined Uraidla Brewery a mere two months ago, this win is a nod to his brewing prowess and the team’s dedication. “This beer was a last-minute decision, so happy we decided to enter it at the last minute,” he remarked. “Super-fresh, made with love and passion.”
Uraidla didn’t stop there; they also bagged two gold and three silver medals for their other entries, proof of their commitment to brewing excellence. This haul included accolades for their Future Light Little Pale Ale, Half Moon Session Ale, Gravity Wave Pale Ale, and Artic Triple Dry Hopped IPA.
Head Judge Justin Fox spoke about the exceptional quality of this year’s entries, saying “We are blown away this year at the quality of beers entered. 151 beers were awarded gold, and an incredible 87% of all beers entered received a medal.”
Callum Reeves, Chair of the Independent Brewers Association (IBA), said “To host the judging hub and in person ceremony in Perth this year alongside our colleagues at the West Australian Brewers Association Conference was a fantastic experience.
“Two years ago we established a vision of moving this important industry event around the nation so everyone had the chance to participate and so we could showcase local beer and the community that supports it.”
Uraidla Brewery, founded by Julie Peter in 2018, has become a popular fixture in the Adelaide Hills. Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of pure spring water from an onsite bore, a key ingredient in their distinctive beers. Housed in the historic Uraidla Hotel, the brewery has not only contributed to the region’s thriving craft beer scene but has also played a pivotal role in revitalising the local community.
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