Britain's oldest brewer is officially world class

Shepherd Neame’s 1698 has been named the Best Pale Bitter over 5.5% ABV in the World Beer Awards.

Originally brewed in 1998 to celebrate the Faversham brewery's tercentenary, 1698 is a premium bottle-conditioned Kentish Strong Ale (6.5% ABV), available in 500ml bottles.

It boasts a robust hop character as it is thrice-hopped using Kentish Admiral and Goldings hops. The natural effervescence produced by bottle-conditioning – the interaction of yeast and brewing sugars – gives 1698 fine, Champagne-like bubbles that further enhance the aroma and flavour.

The awards were announced on Thursday (September 9), and Shepherd Neame also took two honours in the design category: its new Noughty Bear 0.5% IPA won silver for New Launch, and Bear Island East Coast Pale Ale won bronze for Can Design.

Mike Unsworth, Shepherd Neame Head Brewer, said: “These awards are a testament to our team’s passion and knowledge, and our commitment to quality. We are delighted to receive such fantastic accolades, showing once again that our beers really are world class.”

Shepherd Neame’s award-winning beers are available from its online shop and brewery shop in Faversham. For more information, visit: www.shepherdneame.co.uk.