La Cervesera Artesana, a pioneer of the craft beer movement in Barcelona and the Iberian Peninsula, has made history by becoming the first brewery in the country to win a gold medal in the Free-Style Beer category at the European Beer Star 2024. The award was given to their Beer Nostrum, the only Imperial Oyster Stout matured beneath the waters of the Ebro Delta, which is also certified as a Biosphere Reserve.
This milestone was achieved in the Free-Style category, which recognizes exceptional beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles. According to the competition organizers: “The new special category of Free-Style Beer rewards outstanding creations that don’t fit into any of the 74 existing categories. This category gives brewers the freedom to transcend established limits, without analytical restrictions or limitations, seeking unique interpretations with soul and authenticity, reflecting the spirit of the moment.”
During the award ceremony, held on November 27 at the BrauBeviale fair in Nuremberg, Olaf Marti, owner of La Cervesera Artesana and the master brewer behind the concept, proudly received the award and said: “It’s an honor that our Beer Nostrum, made with such respect for the land and matured under the waters of the Ebro Delta, has been recognized as one of the best in the world. This is a recognition of our continuous work and our commitment to innovation and quality in every beer we craft.”
Geoffrey Kiers, head brewer at La Cervesera Artesana, highlighted the unique elements that make Beer Nostrum special: “The second fermentation beneath the Mediterranean Sea gives our beer a unique character, with low carbonation and natural iodine and salty notes. Additionally, the texture and full body of Beer Nostrum set it apart from any other craft or industrial beer. Each bottle, submerged for over six months, carries natural coral encrustations, offering a completely unique sensory experience.”
This success has been celebrated not only by the La Cervesera Artesana team but also by key figures in the beer industry. Upon hearing the news, Mikel Rius, director of the Barcelona Beer Festival, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “Congratulations, Olaf! This is like winning the Champions League. I’m very proud of you and happy that you’re bringing this recognition to our sector.”
