Award-winning Hopbucha launched by Yorkshire brewing partners

Yorkshire’s Theakston Brewery and Equinox Kombucha have launched a new alcohol-free Hopbucha (Image: Supplied)

A new alcohol-free brew fusing beer traditions with kombucha fermentation is shaking up the adult drinks market.

Hopbucha is the result of a collaboration between Yorkshire’s Theakston Brewery and Equinox Kombucha, blending the heritage of British brewing with the gut-friendly qualities of kombucha.

Made using Equinox’s signature SCOBY fermentation process, the drink combines the mouthfeel of kombucha with the refreshment and bitterness of a traditional ale, thanks to Theakston’s hop expertise.

Andy Braithwaite, managing director of Equinox, said: "What started as a fun experiment to see how we could collaborate and combine our skills to play with a palate of exciting flavours has transformed into something special that offers the best of both brewing worlds."

Described as fizzy and flavourful, Hopbucha has already earned a Great Taste Award from The Guild of Fine Food.

Richard Bradbury, managing director of Theakston Brewery, said: "This product is a genuine result of our shared passion for fermented, flavourful drinks."

Hopbucha is targeted at the growing adult market for sophisticated, alcohol-free alternatives.

The drink will initially launch online through Amazon, theakstons.co.uk, and equinoxkombucha.com.

It is also expected to roll out nationally in supermarkets, convenience stores, farm shops, and the hospitality sector.