PickleFest’s resounding success

Newbury’s inaugural PickleFest drew crowds from far and wide to celebrate the art of all things pickled, writes Bethany Sirianni.

Held on Saturday, July 12, at the Delphic Brewing Co tap room, the event exceeded all expectations, attracting more than 300 foodies and pickle enthusiasts.

Creative and community spirit were on full display with around 30 homemade entries into categories ranging from hot sauce to low alcohol drinks and everything in between.

There were guests from across the region, with many travelling from as far as Reading.

The atmosphere was buzzing, filled with live music, hearty conversation and a passion for all things fermented.

The winners of PickleFest by public vote were awarded a variety of great prizes; including cider from Green Shed, beer from Delphic and kombucha made by Fermented Reality, and unique experiences with Fermented Reality, Delphic, or Green Shed.

The categories and their respective winners were:

Pickle: Laura Hunter, awarded the Fermented Reality Experience.

Jam: George Kirtland, awarded the Fermented Reality Experience.

Hot Sauce: Niamh, awarded the Delphic Experience.

Drinks: Megan Bailey, awarded the Green Shed Experience.

Ferments: Chloe Howe, awarded the Delphic Experience.

Honey: James Iles, awarded the Green Shed Experience.

The overall winner, judged by the owners of the Goat on the Roof restaurant, went to Chris Henderson with his Henderson's Naughty Pickle.

Pizza on the Square’s kimchi pizza was an absolute highlight for guests alongside Blind Maggot’s official merchandise which flew off the shelves.

Tom Broadbank, owner of Delphic Brewing Co, said: “It was incredible to see so many people come out to support and enjoy PickleFest, including my two-month-old baby.

“The energy and enthusiasm were palpable, and we can’t wait to do it again next year”

Organisers Green Shed Cider, Delphic Brewing Co, Fermented Reality and Blind Maggot were thrilled with the success of their inaugural PickleFest.