A record number of awards have been handed out at this year’s Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show, including three Championships.

The most prized winner, receiving two of the three Championships awarded, was boutique producer, Sydney Brewery.

Sydney Brewery took out Champion Draught Beer and Champion Cider, followed by Matilda Bay (produced by CUB Cascade Brewery), who received Champion Bottled Beer for its Redbank Original.

Chair of Judges and Head Brewer at The Australian Brewery, Neal Cameron, said it was a phenomenal effort by both producers; however he was particularly impressed a small brewery could not only master a draught beer but accept top honours for cider as well.

“In all my years in the industry and judging, I have never seen a small producer deliver two Championship products in the draft and cider classes at one event. Sydney Brewery’s Lovedale Lager and Sydney Cider are exceptional brews, and I encourage all enthusiasts to get out and support them,” Mr. Cameron said.

“The quality at this year’s show was the highest we’ve seen, however it’s no surprise when entries have climbed over three-fold since inception in 2007 and we award 15 gold medals – the most we’ve ever seen.

“Australia is seeing an enormous rise in the craft beer and cider industries, and we’re witnessing quality products successfully enter our market – it’s an exciting time for all beer and cider enthusiasts around the country and we’re only expecting further growth.”

A total 15 gold, 55 silver and 73 bronze medals were awarded to beer and cider producers this year. To view the full results, visit www.sydneyroyal.com.au/beercider

Caption: Robert Ryan, Royal Agricultural Society President with Michael Capaldo, Head Brewer, Sydney Brewery (left) and Sean Delaere, Manager of Campbelltown Cider Plant of CUB (right).