Two beverage producers from Yorkshire, traditional brewer Theakston and kombucha innovator Equinox, have collaborated to introduce Hopbucha, a non-alcoholic fermented beverage that combines live-culture kombucha with classic hop brewing methods.
This partnership is notable as it represents the first instance of a British brewery teaming up with a kombucha producer to jointly create a commercial offering, merging Theakston’s 200 years of brewing tradition with Equinox’s knowledge of fermented tea. The final product is a kombucha that showcases citrus notes alongside a hop-infused bittersweet character, tailored for adults looking for sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages.
Theakston revealed that their cooperation arose from a mutual passion for fermentation and an awareness of the escalating demand in the no- and low-alcohol sector. Known for its iconic ales and its recent entry into alcohol-free offerings with the 0.0% Nowt Peculier, Theakston aimed to diversify its alcohol-free range with a beverage that still provides a “proper” beer-like experience. Simultaneously, Equinox spotted a chance to venture into innovative flavor profiles for kombucha and enhance its footprint in conventional retail spaces.
Hopbucha is crafted using Equinox’s organic kombucha as a base, which is then complemented with Theakston’s unique hop blend to achieve a harmonious balance of acidity, citrus flavors, and subtle bitterness. This product has already garnered a Great Taste Award, serving as an initial endorsement for this cross-category initiative.
The product will first be available online through platforms like Amazon, as well as Theakston’s and Equinox’s direct sales channels, with plans for broader distribution within retail and hospitality sectors.