Celebrating rarity at the Rare Beer Challenge 2023
Basing a beer on the 90s cult movie The Big Lebowski turned out to be a winning idea for Heyday Beer Co, as they took out the top prize with their Lingonberry Pancake Ale at this year’s Rare Beer Challenge hosted by Fortune Favours on 10th March.
The Rare Beer Challenge is an annual event to raise awareness and funds for Rare Disorders NZ. Craft breweries from around the motu are invited to come up with their version of a rare beer using rare ingredients and unusual brewing techniques. An esteemed panel of judges votes for the best ‘rare’ beers with top marks going to innovative breweries who are able to make the connection to rare disorders through their beer and marketing efforts.
Rare Beer new comers Alibi Brewing Company took out 2nd place with A heart Full of Cherries Barrel Blended Tart Ale aged on Cherries. Last year’s winner Choice Bros Brewing took out 3rd place with SAKE BOMB Ginjo Beer.
The night was a resounding success with a packed venue and a record $17,385 raised for Rare Disorders NZ. Aucklanders were also treated to a taste of rare with 16 TUN pouring Rare Beers over the weekend.
The Rare Beer Challenge is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate rarity and for the wider community to come together and show their support for rare in a lighthearted, unique way.
We are always so grateful for the mahi Fortune Favours puts into this event each year and to the growing success the event has seen year on year. We’re also grateful for the 21 breweries that took part, Hills Hats for donating the trophy hat, the judges who volunteered their time, and for the sponsors Gladfield Malt, NZ Hops Ltd and Kegstar for their support.
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