Theakston Brewery and fermentation pioneer Equinox Kombucha have joined forces with the intention of disrupting the adult drinks market.
Hopbucha is an alcohol-free brew that brings together the rich tradition of British beer-making with the naturally fermented power of kombucha. The innovation has already won over the judges at The Guild of Fine Food, who awarded Hopbucha a Great Taste Award this week.
The functional drink is fermented using Equinox’s unique Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY). It offers the gut-friendly live cultures and satisfying mouthfeel of authentic kombucha, combined with the refreshment and drinkability of a Theakston ale.
“As the UK’s largest craft brewers of kombucha and one of the category leaders, we have enormous respect for Theakston’s skill and tradition,” said Andy Braithwaite, Equinox’s managing director.
“Yorkshire has a fantastic brewing culture, making world-famous beers like Theakston’s Old Peculier. While we’re one of the longest-standing Kombucha brewers in the UK, we’re the new kids on the block compared to Theakston’s nearly 200 years, but there are so many similarities between our techniques and ethos.
“What started as a fun experiment to see how we could collaborate and combine our skills to play with a palate of exciting flavours, has transformed into something special that offers the best of both brewing worlds.”
Richard Bradbury, managing director of Theakston Brewery, added: “This product is a genuine result of our shared passion for fermented flavourful drinks. With no- and low-alcohol drinks growing and the market maturing into one where there are products aimed squarely at adults, we felt that Hopbucha offered something different.
“For nearly 200 years, Theakston has combined innovation with heritage and flavour. This shared project with Equinox embodies that spirit, highlighting that while we remain true to our history, we’re also passionate about keeping the art of brewing alive in all its forms.
“We’ve seen success in recent years with our Nowt Peculier 0.0% beer, and while that might not make your lunchtime meal deal, we believe that Hopbucha can become that option offering the refreshing flavour of hops with the benefits of kombucha.”
