BrandsBriefs
Fuller's takes pride of place
Fuller's London Pride has been voted consumers' favourite real-ale tipple for 2006 in a regional beer poll.
Over 2,000 drinkers voted for the Fuller's ale in the Tynemill/Castle Rock Brewery Beer of the Year competition, with second place going to Summer Lightning from Hop Back Brewery.
Drinkers were questioned during the autumn in Tynemill's 20-strong pub estate in the East Midlands and Yorkshire.
Sean Griffiths, Fuller's national accounts manager, said: "To have Fuller's London Pride recognised by Tynemill's customers as their Beer of the Year is a great honour, as the group is one of the leading lights in the industry for the promotion of cask ale."
Cocaine hits the shelves
US-based Redux Beverages has designed a new energy drink called Cocaine. The drink is said to give drinkers a "legal high" and creates a euphoric feeling within five minutes of drinking it, followed by an energy buzz that lasts for up to six hours. Cocaine contains a substantial 280mg of caffeine, making it 350% stronger than its rival Red Bull. The company refused to give the name of the main ingredient and said it was confidential information.
On the ale trail
Bristol Beer Factory has unveiled its latest brew, called Trail Ale. The golden-coloured beer contains 5% abv and is brewed from Pioneer hops. It is described as having a citrus aftertaste. Trail Ale is available throughout December to freehouses in Bristol, Bath, and the surrounding area.
Batemans gets Gold
Lincolnshire-based family brewer Batemans has been awarded the Gold medal for its XXXB in the Premium Ale category of the British Bottled Beer Institute 2006 Beer Competition.
The 4.8% abv strong bitter is described as having a "complex palate, consisting of a delicate aroma of hops, balanced by a malty character".
Stuart Bateman, MD, said: "We are delighted to win an additional award for XXXB." The beer has already won Camra's Premium Beer of the Year five times.
