Brewers and cider makers have until 10 February to enter the International Brewing and Cider Awards following an extension to the deadline from competition organisers, Brewing Technology Services (BTS).
Ruth Evans, Director of BTS, said they had been delighted with the number of entries received so far.
“It has been particularly pleasing to see entries from companies who haven’t taken part in the competition before, which reflects the excellent reputation of our Awards among the global brewing and cider making communities.
“We’re extending the deadline to help those producers and brand owners who have requested a bit more time to submit their entry. The final cut off on 10 February gives us a month to receive beers and ciders into the National Brewery Centre in Burton and prepare for the judging there in March.”
The 2015 competition attracted around 1000 entries from 50 countries, and this year’s competition is expected to exceed that.
Evans added: “Entries to the International Cider Awards are well ahead of the 2015 level. The competition in March will be the third to include cider since we reintroduced it in 2013 and we have introduced new classes this year, in recognition of the innovation and diversity in the market. There is now a place for ciders flavoured with fruit or other ingredients, or for those made using atypical processes such as ice or barrel-aged ciders.”
This year’s brewing competition also offers new classes, for sour beer, zero gluten beer and extra strong beer (ABV of 10% and above), introduced in response to the growing number of brewers who are producing these styles.
Judging for the 2017 Awards takes place from 7-9 March and medal winners will be announced immediately afterwards, on Friday 10 March. The overall championship winners in 10 categories will be unveiled at a presentation ceremony held at London’s Guildhall on 26 April which will be attended by medal winners and others from the global brewing and cider industries.
Entries to the International Brewing and Cider Awards can be made online at www.brewingawards.org.uk or www.ciderawards.org.uk.