BrewDog lodges complaint... about its own beer

By James Wilmore

- Last updated on GMT

Related tags Portman group Complaint Brewing

Controversial Scottish microbrewer BrewDog has revealed it has lodged a complaint with drinks watchdog the Portman Group about one of its own beers -...

Controversial Scottish microbrewer BrewDog has revealed it has lodged a complaint with drinks watchdog the Portman Group about one of its own beers - which now faces a ban.

James Watt, BrewDog's managing director, told The Publican​ he had complained about his company's 18.2 per cent Tokyo beer - believed to be Britain's strongest brew.

The Portman Group has written to the company saying the beer has fallen foul of its code and has until November 25 to appeal against a "provisional" decision.

"I submitted a complaint under a pseudonym saying it was irresponsible to promote a beer of that strength," said Watt.

"The intention was to highlight how ineffective their complaints system is.

"I think the money from the industry can be used more effectively without this witchhunt mentality."

BrewDog revealed in August it was facing investigation by the Portman Group over its controversial Tokyo beer, following a complaint by Alcohol Scotland and a "member of the public".

It is the latest chapter in the feud between BrewDog and the Portman Group after previous investigations over its products and threats by the brewer to sue the watchdog.

Alcohol Focus complained the beer "does not promote a positive message of safe and responsible drinking".

A spokesman for the Portman Group said it expects to make a final ruling on Tokyo "within the next six weeks".

But Watt appeared unperturbed the beer could be banned, saying "we only sell it on our website anyway".

Related topics Beer

Property of the week

Follow us

Pub Trade Guides

View more