Viva Ventnor, pride of the Island

August 8, 2006: Ventnor Brewery, founded in 1840, has won the beer of the year award for the fifth year from members of the Isle of Wight branch of CAMRA.

Situated on the Isle of Wight below the downs of St Boniface, Ventnor Brewery uses the natural spring water which emanates from the rocks above Ventnor. The beer is famous for its age-old recipe which uses the finest malt and hops from around the globe and natural spring water which, according to history, has healing power. The water is pumped directly from the down via a well under the brewery.

Ventnor now has a portfolio of eight ales, all of which have been specially brewed to complement different foods and are bottled or available in a cask (Beer in a Box) for home delivery.

Brian Jacobs, press officer for the Isle of Wight branch of CAMRA and organiser of the beer of the year award, said: "Once again Ventnor Brewery hit the top spot! I never tire of banging on about just how good the Island brewers are. They produce a great variety of distinctive, tasty and good quality craft beers."

Ventnor is one of three brewers on the Isle of Wight who compete in this annual competition. The award presentation took place recently at the Yarbridge Arms.