Isle of Man brewery Okell’s has swept the top awards at the 2016 International Beer Challenge at an award ceremony held in London.

In an unprecedented night for the Isle of Man craft brewery, the judging panel of brewers, retailers, importers and informed journalists awarded Okell’s Aile a gold medal and 1907 silver medal status.

At the International Beer Challenge award ceremony, the stage was then set to reveal the outright best speciality beer, with Okell’s Aile prevailing against the world’s best beers.

Okell’s head brewer, Dr Mike Cowbourne said: ‘To compete against some 700 of the world’s finest beers from around 30 countries and to win gold and silver medals was already a fantastic achievement. However, for Aile to then be declared “best speciality beer in the world” was quite overwhelming and testimony to Okell’s continual ability to produce truly world-class beers.’

‘Winning these medals goes far beyond adding to Okell’s many trophies. Global recognition such as this serves to reinforce the brewery’s credibility and reputation for innovation with retailers and consumers in markets traditionally dominated by multi-national brands. Importantly, this helps to raise the profile of not only Okell’s, but the Isle of Man, especially given the great pride we share in our 150-year Manx provenance’.

It is against this background that Okell’s are now looking to recruit a new brewer to work alongside Dr Mike to develop new products, open up new markets and ensure that consistent award-winning quality continues to distinguish the brewery in the future.

Meanwhile if beer tasting, rather than brewing, is of more immediate appeal, Okell’s beers can be found at all pubs in the H&B estate across the Isle of Man.

Podium pints: Okell’s head brewer, Dr Mike Cowbourne, with the 2016 International Beer Challenge awards