OnTap Magazine

10 | Summer 2025 | ontapmag.co.za Adding fruit to beer isn’t new — think Lager & Lime or Chile’s iconic Fanshop — but what’s happening today is far more deliberate. Instead of mixing at the counter, South African brewers are building flavour from scratch in the brewhouse, blending quality malt with local quality ingredients to meet the tastes of a new, curious generation. Younger drinkers are reaching for lighter, fresher, and more adventurous options. They want fruity profiles, easy-drinking style,s and lower-carb alternatives that support a more health-conscious lifestyle. Brewers are responding with bold innovation — a trend showcased at the 2025 South African National Beer Trophy (SANBT), sponsored by BASA. This year, the competition introduced a Modern Flavour Trophy, and fruit-forward beers dominated the entries. This shift mirrors global trends seen in Europe, where peach, apple, and grenadine beers have surged. Even heritage styles are evolving: United National Breweries’ banana-flavoured umqombothi “stood out as surprisingly compelling.” Now in its 11th year, SANBT attracted more than 160 entries from large breweries and craft producers alike. All beers are judged using BJCP standards — aroma, appearance, mouthfeel, and style accuracy — and must be commercially available, ensuring the awards align with what consumers can actually find on shelves. The competition displayed impressive range, from double IPAs and Belgian quads to wood-aged sours. But entries in the low- and no-alcohol category remained limited. Event organiser JV Ridon explained: “Achieving 0.0% alcohol without compromising flavour is costly and technically demanding. Only the biggest brewers can do it consistently.” The broader message is clear: brewers are innovating to reach a wider audience. Award stickers signal quality, guide consumer choice, and push producers to refine their craft. SANBT is also redefining beer’s image. Premium beers are earning space in fine-dining settings, and the Ubuntu Trophy for sommeliers helps cement beer’s place alongside top culinary experiences. BASA CEO Charlene Louw said the Association is proud to support a platform that elevates South African beer: “SANBT celebrates excellence. This year we invited Wesgro to experience the richness of our beer landscape, and we’ll continue opening doors to partners. We want stakeholders to see the creative, world-class side of beer that’s often overlooked.” Looking ahead, BASA and SANBT share a vision: to evolve the competition into a cultural showcase that attracts beer lovers, foodies, tourism stakeholders, and industries that appreciate the craft behind every pour — ultimately positioning SANBT as a flagship local festival on par with South Africa’s top wine and whisky events. PUT MORE PEACH IN YOUR PINT SOUTHAFRICAN BREWERS EMBRACE FLAVOUR, QUALITY AND INNOVATION