A LAUNCESTON-based brewing company has secured an international award for one of its non-alcoholic drinks.

Firebrand Brewing’s non-alcoholic hazy pale, Shorebreak, has been awarded Double Gold at the International Non-Alcoholic Drinks Competition. This follows hot on the heels of being named Britain’s Best Non-Alcoholic Pale Ale at the World Beer Awards and puts it firmly on the world beer map.

Co-owner and head brewer at Firebrand Brewing Co, Joe Thomson said: “Winning Double Gold at the International Non-Alcoholic Competition is a huge moment for us.

“Shorebreak was created to give drinkers a full-flavoured, hop-forward beer without compromise, and to see it recognised by such a respected panel of judges is incredible.

“The awards were held in New York and we were up against beers from across the globe so this is a huge international accolade. The non-alcoholic category is growing fast and to be leading the way with one of our core beers is something we’re really proud of.”

At 0.5 per cent ABV, Shorebreak is a non-alcoholic hazy pale packed with vibrant hop flavour. Brewed with Simcoe, Citra and Cascade, it delivers all the juicy, tropical flavour of a full-strength hazy pale but without the hangover. Smooth and light, this IPA is also gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and just 35 calories per can.

Joe added: “When I started the brewery over a decade ago, alcohol-free beer wasn’t on the popularity radar. But after I took up running, finding a great-tasting alternative to my daily pint that wouldn’t derail my training, became a passion project for me. That's where Shorebreak came from.

“The response to this IPA has been phenomenal, with it now being one of our best-sellers, and having it recognised again by industry experts makes the journey even more rewarding.”