In partnership with BASA
BEER OF THE YEAR 2024: Afro Caribbean Brewing Co.’s “The Garth Father”
Press Release
For Immediate Release
National Beer Trophy 2024: Celebrating the Best of South African Brewing
Cape Town, November 28, 2024 – The 10th edition of the South African National Beer Trophy (SANBT) concluded with an extraordinary showcase of South Africa’s diverse and thriving beer culture. Organized since 2015 by William and Jean-Vincent Ridon in partnership with the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), the SANBT has established itself as the largest competition exclusively dedicated to South African beers. This year, nearly 200 entries were judged by BJCP-certified judges and international sommeliers, culminating in an unforgettable black-tie beer pairing dinner and awards ceremony at the Cullinan Hotel in Cape Town.
The evening was co-hosted by Charlene Louw, CEO of BASA, and Jean-Vincent Ridon, current South African Best Sommelier. Brewers from across South Africa, including large national brands like SAB (South African Breweries) and Heineken, craft breweries, and for the first time, United National Breweries the Chibuku, Umqombothi producers, came together to compete for top honors.
“This year’s competition highlighted the remarkable quality, creativity, and diversity of South African brewing,” said Jean-Vincent Ridon. “From traditional Umqombothi to zero-alcohol and specialty craft beers, the SANBT reflects the depth of beer culture in our country.”
2024 Trophy and Gold Medal Winners
The competition celebrated excellence across all beer styles, with Afro Caribbean Brewing Co.’s “The Garth Father” taking the coveted Beer of the Year Trophy.
- Best Light Beer: Castle Lager – ABInBev (SAB)
- Best Dark Beer & Beer of the Year: The Garth Father – Afro Caribbean Brewing Co.
- Umqombothi Trophy (BASA): Chibuku Super – United National Breweries
- Best Sour Beer: Hibiscus-Citrus Sour – ClockWork Brewhouse
- Best Wheat Beer: Good Adweiss – That Brewing Co.
- BASA No-Alcohol Trophy: Heineken 0.0% – Heineken
- Best Specialty Beer: Sweet Mary Jane – Woodstock Brewery
- BASA Low-Alcohol Trophy: Session 157 – Afro Caribbean Brewing Co.
- Best Hoppy Beer: Big Hitter – That Brewing Co.
Diverse Industry Representation
The winners represent the rich diversity of South Africa’s brewing industry, from large-scale brewers to boutique craft producers, and now traditional Umqombothi makers. Notable highlights included Heineken 0.0% winning the no-alcohol category and a Quadruple Belgian-style beer at 10% ABV taking Beer of the Year, showcasing the spectrum of South Africa’s beer innovation.
Medallists Reflect Excellence
The competition awarded gold and silver medals to beers that demonstrated exceptional quality. Some Breweries shined with more than multiple gold medals:
- Afro Caribbean Brewing Co.
- Woodstock Brewery
- Cape Brewing Co.
- Darling Brew
- Brew Hogs
- That Brewing Co.
- Mad Giant Brewery
Advancing South African Beer Culture
In partnership with BASA, the SANBT works to elevate beer’s positioning within the hospitality sector and promote its premium value. “The SANBT aligns with BASA’s mission to celebrate and grow South Africa’s rich beer culture,” said Charlene Louw. “This year’s competition demonstrates the industry’s extraordinary talent and innovation.”