A SOMERSET brewery has received more praise for one of its beers.

The independent Quantock Brewery is celebrating after one of its new beers was judged second in the prestigious Alpha King Challenge.

More than 150 breweries from Europe and America entered this year’s competition, with the Bishops Lydeard brewery's Unclear Progression receiving the prestigious placing.

Unclear Progression is one of the latest NEIPA recipes from the brew crew. 

Founded by Yakima Chief Hops and 3 Floyds Brewing, since 1999 the Alpha King Challenge has crowned the most well-balanced and drinkable beers with 60 International Bitterness Units (IBUs) or more — the top IPAs and DIPAs on the market. 

Cheryl Ford, managing director at Quantock Brewery, said: “With our Tap Room reopening, street food evenings and our popular music events back every month, it feels like another step closer to being able to showcase the beer we love to make.

"We’ve been creating new recipes as part of brewing beers that appeal to all palates.

"To all our customers, many who are now supporting us from around the UK, thank you for your continued support.”

The Alpha King Challenge is limited to commercial brewers and is judged by a team of brewers, industry experts and veteran beer writers.

James Higgins, Quantock Brewery’s brewhouse manager, added: “Dan, Rhys and I were buzzing from knowing we'd made it into the top 20. 

"Being up against some of the breweries who we are all massive fans of was an incredible achievement for us. To be judged second overall was an awesome feeling and makes all the hard work we put in as a team worthwhile.

"Maybe next year we’ll lift the crown.”

Unclear Progression is the 8th NEIPA release and is a hazy, juicy, aromatic beer made with Idaho 7, Mosaic, Simcoe and Talus hops.

The 6.3% ABV has notes of tropical fruits, a smooth mouthfeel and hits of citrus and pineapple and is available in cans online from www.quantockbrewery.co.uk