Copperhead and Powderkeg Named Champions of the South West at Indie Beer Awards 2026

Copperhead Ales and Powderkeg brewery have taken home the top two awards at the Indie Beer Awards South West, which took place at the MaltingsFest beer festival in Newton Abbot.

It was Copperhead Ales' 'Black Flamingo', a big, bold Imperial Stout at a hefty 8.2% ABV, that wowed the judges in the cask beer awards with flavours of rich chocolate and black coffee. Described by the brewery as being "a proper kicker that'll put hair on the back of your eyeballs. Our thorough brewing process means that despite the strength of Black Flamingo it's still deliciously drinkable."

In the separate Keg Beer Awards it was Powderkeg brewery's 'Paint the Town Red', a brand new American Red Ale which was launched at the MaltingsFest in support of Indie Beer Week, and which took home Gold in its very first awards outing.

The awards, which were presented at MaltingsFest opposite Tucker's Maltings site, are judged by beer sommeliers, master brewers and other expert beer judges from across the industry. The event is organised by the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA).

Andy Slee, SIBA Chief Executive and presenter of this year's awards, said: "The MaltingsFest is easily one of the best beer festivals in the UK, with a truly outstanding range of beers in cask and keg from the South West's best independent breweries. The quality of entries in the Indie Beer Awards this year was higher than ever and I want to say a huge well done to all of this year's winners, but in particular our Overall Champions Copperhead and Powderkeg – the very best of the best in the South West."

Members of the public can taste the best beers in the South West at the MaltingsFest Beer Festival in Newton Abbot, with tickets available on the door.

Notes to Editors

Photo caption: "Local MP Steve Darling joins Andy Slee of SIBA to present the awards to this year's winners Copperhead and Powderkeg."

Full results from the Indie Beer Awards South West are available from SIBA on request.

For more information:

SIBA Press Office

Email: press@siba.co.uk

Address: Fishergreen, Ripon, HG4 1NL

Third-party news items are published as received for informational purposes. Publication does not imply endorsement by the Guild. Please use the contact details within the post for any enquiries.