Champion Beer of Britain

CBOB clip

Champion Beer of Britain (CBOB) is a prestigious award presented annually by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) to the best beer in the United Kingdom. The competition is a highlight of the Great British Beer Festival (GBBF), an event that showcases a wide variety of beers from across the country. The award aims to promote the quality and diversity of British real ales, a category of beer that is naturally carbonated through secondary fermentation in the container from which it is dispensed, and served without additional nitrogen or carbon dioxide pressure.

History

The Champion Beer of Britain award was established in 1978, evolving from CAMRA's early efforts to preserve traditional British real ale. The award has since become a significant accolade in the British brewing industry, influencing consumer preferences and highlighting the craftsmanship of the nation's brewers.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Champion Beer of Britain is rigorous and involves several stages. It begins with CAMRA members nominating beers in various categories, such as Bitter, Mild, Golden Ale, Speciality Beer, and Strong Ale. These beers then undergo regional tasting panels and competitions. The winners from these rounds progress to the final judging at the GBBF, where a panel of experts, including brewers, beer writers, and industry professionals, conduct blind tastings to determine the champions in each category, as well as the overall winner.

Categories

The competition is divided into several categories to ensure a wide range of beer styles are represented. These include:

• Bitter
• Best Bitter
• Strong Bitter
• Golden Ale
• Mild
• Speciality Beer
• Real Ale in a Bottle

Impact

Winning the Champion Beer of Britain can significantly impact a brewery's reputation and sales. It highlights the brewery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, often leading to increased demand for their products. Past winners have seen a surge in interest from both consumers and retailers, helping to elevate the profile of smaller, independent breweries.

Notable Winners

Some beers have won the title multiple times, reflecting the consistent quality of their brew. Notable winners include:

• Timothy Taylor's Landlord - A classic example of a British bitter, this beer has won the award on several occasions.
• Harvey's Sussex Best Bitter - Another multiple-time winner, known for its balanced taste and hoppy aroma.

Challenges and Criticisms

While the Champion Beer of Britain is a coveted award, it has faced challenges and criticisms over the years. Some argue that the selection process may favor certain styles or regions. Others point out the evolving beer landscape, with the rise of craft beer and new styles, may require adjustments to the competition's format to stay relevant.

Conclusion

The Champion Beer of Britain remains a significant accolade in the UK brewing industry, celebrating the tradition and innovation of British real ale. As the beer landscape continues to evolve, the award adapts, ensuring it remains a relevant and prestigious recognition of brewing excellence.