Head Brewer Jeremy Swainson shortlisted for prestigious Guild of Beer Writers - Brewer of the Year award

Devon based Utopian Brewing are delighted to hear that head brewer Jeremy Swainson, has been shortlisted for the British Guild of Beer writers, Brewer of the year award, sponsored by SIBA. A record number of entries has been whittled down to 5 outstanding brewers and is now in the hands of the Guild members to choose the winner.

On hearing the news Co-Founder and MD of Utopian Richard Archer said “from our first brew day it was clear that Jeremy not only had great technical knowledge but also a real passion for both for quality, and for brewing great beers.” Announcing the shortlist Chair of the Guild, Pete Brown, said “Several criteria were considered: firstly, have they had a particularly outstanding year in 2020? Secondly, every single brewer nominated brews excellent beer. But have they also made a contribution that goes above and beyond that? Finally, we wanted to put forward a list that reflects the full breadth of our vibrant brewing industry – big and small, young and old, traditional and innovative.”

The nominating Guild member said of Jeremy “[his] beers are perfection and showcase malt so exquisitely. He has made many ale drinkers (including me) fall in love with lager. He displays excellence at brewing beers from the family of lager, keeping the core range of Lager, Pilsner, Unfiltered Lager and Dark Lager consistent and essential drinking in the pub; also bear in mind that the brewery’s ethos is about using British ingredients, and the beers still bear the stamp of authentic lagered beers.”

Richard Archer went on to say, “As well as brewing a range of outstanding beers in our first 18 months of operation, Jeremy has also fully embraced our sustainability ambitions and built an outstanding team in the brewhouse who share both his passion and enthusiasm. This is very well deserved recognition for his outstanding work and we are very lucky to have to him. The whole team are delighted for him. He is already a winner in our eyes although, of course, we hope he can go all the way.”

The full shortlist is made up of 5 contenders from breweries across the UK. James Clarke, Hook Norton; Matt Hayes, Budweiser Brewing UK; Janine Shorrock, Ashover Brewery; Oli Fozzard, Roosters; Jeremy Swainson, Utopian Brewing.