Hawke's Bay cider specialists Zeffer are regulars in this competition and with their alcoholic ginger beer, they are back in the Top 30 for the second time in three years. This is a versatile beverage that can be consumed as a refreshing sundowner, a pre-dinner aperitif or a perfect match for Southeast Asian cuisine. A sweet apple cider base is layered with fresh and dried ginger, kawakawa and chilli to produce a deeply satisfying flavour on 4.5% ABV. The judges loved the balance of spicy heat and sweetness.

Find out more about Zeffer on the Ale Trail.