We’re absolutely buzzing to share some incredible news – Cold Town Beer has just been named the UK’s ‘Beer of the Year’ at the 2025 London Beer Competition for our Barrel Aged Imperial Stout – Speyside Cask Matured.
This recognition isn’t just a win for us – it’s a celebration of seven years of passion, experimentation, and craft. The London Beer Competition, now in its eighth year, is one of the most respected competitions on the global stage, known for assessing beers not only on taste, but also value and packaging – three factors we’ve always believed are key to a standout pint.
A Beer Worth Savouring
Our Barrel Aged Imperial Stout started its life as Topic Thunder, a stout that itself scooped a gold medal at the same competition last year. Inspired by its success, we filled a Speyside whisky cask with 400 litres of this already award-winning beer, and left it to rest for a full year. What emerged was a deep, rich and beautifully complex stout – matured to perfection, with a smooth whisky finish and layers of bold character.
We only produced 875 cans of this limited edition beer, making it as rare as it is remarkable. This was more than just a brew – it was a true passion project for the entire team.
National Recognition for a Local Brewery
Judged by a panel of elite beer buyers, bar owners and industry experts from around the world, our Imperial Stout rose to the top out of hundreds of beers from over 20 countries. To stand out in such a competitive and respected arena is a proud moment for our entire brewery.
Ian Kennedy, our Head of Production, summed it up perfectly:
“We’ve spent the last seven years building a range we’re truly proud of, and it’s incredibly exciting to see Cold Town getting national recognition. This beer is something special. It’s a celebration of everything we’ve been working toward.”
Euan Bain, Director at Cold Town Beer, added:
“From day one, we set out to create beers that were full of character and brewed with care – and our Barrel Aged Stout is the perfect example of that ethos. Maturing it in Speyside whisky casks was a passion project, and the result has exceeded all our expectations.”
Try It Before It’s Gone
This award-winning beer is available in very limited quantities – and when it’s gone, it’s gone.
Click here to grab a can of our Barrel Aged Imperial Stout and see for yourself why it’s taken home one of the highest honours in the industry.
