Eugenio Caruana / Farsons

Simonds Farsons Cisk plc Chief Operations Officer (COO) Eugenio Caruana has lauded the recognition from this year’s edition of the International Beer Challenge (IBC) Tasting Awards as an “outstanding achievement” for the company’s brewery.

This came after Cisk Lager and Cisk Excel Low-Carbohydrate Lager were awarded bronze and silver medals respectively in the Lagers category, while Blue Label Ale, from Farsons Classic Brews range, was awarded a bronze medal in the Ales category.

The IBC Tasting Awards are established through a rigorous judging process. This involves a highly controlled setting of blind tastings by panels of more than 70 respected and experienced industry experts ranging from retailers, importers, publicans, brewers, writers, and flavour analysts.

“Being recognised and awarded by a prestigious international competition as is the IBC is an outstanding achievement,” Mr Caruana said.

He added that the company’s brewers “remain proud and resolute in their unwavering commitment to consistently delivering quality beers”.

Michael Farrugia Farsons
Simonds Farsons Cisk plc Deputy Chief Executive (Beverage Business) Michael Farrugia

Michael Farrugia, Deputy Chief Executive (Beverage Business) at Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, said: “Our portfolio of beers has garnered several prestigious international awards over the years, and these latest awards from the IBC reinforce the pride not only of our brewers, but that of our entire workforce, especially when considering that we are competing with global brands.”

He added that the awards are a “testament to true quality and consistency”.

Being a part of the IBC carries with it a number of benefits, with the competition both acknowledging the skills of the brewer, as well as acting as an “internationally recognised symbol of quality”, Farsons Group stated.

Samples of cans, bottles, and mini kegs are delivered to the judging area in groups of numbered tasting glasses to ensure the accuracy of the blind tasting. Each judge then assesses the products and aims to reward a “well-made, interesting beer that deserves to be consumed”. The variety of the beer is selected by the entrant and verified by the table captains. Each beer is then blind tasted and awarded a bronze, silver, or gold for its aroma, appearance, taste and finish. In some cases, no medal is awarded if the level is not achieved.

Featured Image:

Simonds Farsons Cisk plc COO Eugenio Caruana / Farsons Group

Related

Worried employee - Pexels

A CEO’s guide to resolving conflict with empathy and professionalism

14 July 2025
by Nicole Zammit

Even the most harmonious work environments can be disrupted by conflict.

Summer plans, hidden gems and seasonal delights: How Malta’s CEOs are spending the season

14 July 2025
by Nicole Zammit

The perfect summer doesn’t need to be extravagant; it just needs good company, food, and a breather.

Men still dominating Malta’s boardrooms

11 July 2025
by Nicole Zammit

The gender imbalance across Malta’s corporate landscape remains striking.

Lara Falzon appointed CEO of Yolo Group’s B2B Brands

11 July 2025
by Sam Vassallo

The experienced executive said the firm has 'enormous potential for innovation, strengthening partnerships and scaling across global markets'