Sydney craft beer makers Philter Brewing entered the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBAs) for the first time this year and won two awards in Melbourne, last week. The night started with a bang for the young team when Philter XPA, the brand’s crowd-pleasing first release to market, won Best Australian Pale Ale. Head Brewer Samara Füss and Team Philter expressed their delight at winning the Australian Gypsy Brewer Award.
Füss is no stranger to winning awards, having collected national and international trophies during her many years in the industry, but according to her, these two mean a lot. “The XPA was our baby from the start and I am really proud of it so I’m stoked with the recognition it’s getting, especially on the back of winning the Champion Pale Ale at last year’s CBIAs.”
As for winning the Australian Gypsy Brewer Award,Füss said, “It’s huge! Such a big thing to be recognised like that. I am thrilled. I can’t remember what I said during my speech but I meant every word.”
“These awards are a massive testament to our team. There aren’t many of us, but we’re so dedicated to this little company. We just want to share the love by getting the XPA and the rest of our beers out to as many people as possible,” said co-founder and sales and marketing director Stefan Constantoulas.
Philter Brewing sets itself apart with what it describes as its “late 1980’s Australiana aesthetic and distinctive” can design. As her first beer for the brand,Füss crafted the XPA as a naturally cloudy ale with tropical fruit aromas and a refreshing hop flavour. It’s an easy-drinking hit on tap and in tins. The Philter line-up also includes the Red Session Ale, Lager and the latest limited-release Caribbean Stout.