Theakston and Equinox Introduce Alcohol-Free Hopbucha Drink

Theakston Brewery, in collaboration with Equinox Kombucha, has unveiled Hopbucha, an innovative alcohol-free drink that blends the traditional elements of British beer with the distinct characteristics of kombucha. This product was developed to meet the increasing consumer interest in non-alcoholic beverages.

Hopbucha is created using Equinox's SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast), which contributes to the live cultures and texture commonly associated with kombucha. The drink is then infused with Theakston’s expertise in hop blending, resulting in a beverage that offers a citrus bitterness and a refreshing taste profile, appealing to beer enthusiasts.

Andy Braithwaite, managing director of Equinox Kombucha, described the project as a successful experiment that combined both companies' skills to produce a unique drink. Richard Bradbury, managing director of Theakston Brewery, mentioned the drink as a distinctive addition to the market of non-alcoholic products targeted at adults.

Hopbucha is part of Theakston’s broader strategy in the alcohol-free sector, following their previous release of Nowt Peculier 0.0% beer. The new product distinguishes itself by merging the characteristics of hops with the fermented nature of kombucha.

Initially, Hopbucha will be available for purchase online through platforms such as Amazon, Theakston’s own website, and Equinox Kombucha’s website. Plans are in place to expand distribution into supermarkets, convenience stores, farm shops, and the hospitality sector across the country.

The collaboration brings together two established companies from Yorkshire. Equinox has been crafting kombucha near Halifax for nearly 15 years, while Theakston Brewery, a family-owned business founded in Masham in 1827, is renowned for its traditional beers like Old Peculier.