In a remarkable feat, Innis & Gunn Lager has claimed the gold for Scotland at the highly esteemed World Beer Awards, often regarded as the “beer Olympics.” It has outshone not only its local rivals but also numerous international contenders.
The lager, hailing from the Edinburgh-based brewer, was honored with a “Gold” in both the Country and Taste Categories. Classic Pilsners from across the globe vied for this top accolade, yet Innis & Gunn’s Lager surpassed some well-known names. Esteemed brands such as Estrella Damm, Madri, Stella, Becks, Chang, and Heverlee, which all received “Silver,” were left in its wake.
Company founder Dougal Gunn Sharp, who introduced Innis & Gunn Lager in 2013 following requests from on-trade customers for a premium Scottish lager, commented, “This is an immensely proud moment for our team. This recognition simply validates what we’ve always believed: our lager is the best in Scotland and can hold its own against any in the world. Everyone who samples our beer becomes a fan, and with an increasing number of people trying it daily, the potential is boundless. I hope that consumers feel a sense of national pride knowing that a homegrown Scottish offering can triumph over the most renowned premium lagers globally.”
The final judging of the World Beer Awards 2024 took place in Norwich, where Innis and Gunn’s “The Original” also secured a “Silver” in the Taste category. In the Scotland category, Innis & Gunn’s Lager emerged as the overall victor. The Edinburgh Beer Factory’s Munich-style Paolozzi Lager was awarded gold, Heverlee took silver, and Tennent’s Lager received bronze.
This international victory coincides with Innis & Gunn’s prominent participation in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. As the official beer partner of the event, the brewer has orchestrated a month-long takeover at the Mound, inviting attendees to experience “a real taste of Scotland” with a lineup of local food and drink vendors and live music.
Dougal added, “This has been an extraordinary month so far for Innis & Gunn, and we’re only halfway through. We look forward to greeting thousands more Fringe-goers in the coming weeks and sharing with them what has been deemed the best in Scotland.”
Beyond the Fringe, the company has also formed successful partnerships with several of Scotland’s major cultural events, including the Royal Highland Show, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the Belladrum music festival.
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