Adelaide Hills brewery earns major award at International Beer Challenge 2026

Images supplied

Prancing Pony Brewery has added another international accolade to its collection, receiving a Highly Commended Brewer of the Year – Oceania honour at the 2026 International Beer Challenge.

For CEO and co-founder Corinna Steeb, the recognition is a reflection of the dedication of head brewer and husband Frank Samson, whose focus has always been on making the best beer possible rather than chasing awards.

“It fits his nature, wanting to do something really well,” Corinna said.

The honour comes a decade after Prancing Pony’s India Red Ale received the Supreme Champion Trophy at the International Beer Challenge in London, a moment that gave the then-young brewery confidence its beers could compete on the world stage.

“We started the brewery when a lot of our friends were ready for early retirement … we’d exited from corporate careers and we wanted to do something that’s fun.”

The International Beer Challenge attracts entries from more than 30 countries, with beers of all styles and strengths assessed by a panel of retailers, importers, publicans, brewers, writers and flavour analysts. For Corinna, the value of entering competitions extends beyond the recognition itself, providing feedback and an opportunity to consider what comes next.

“Awards are nice to have but the best thing is that people love our beer.”

Prancing Pony’s approach to brewing remains grounded in simplicity, with the team generally working within the four traditional ingredients of water, grain, hops and yeast.

“We feel these ingredients give you so many variations and scope to create amazing flavours.”

Rather than relying solely on trends from the United States, the brewery also looks to the European market for inspiration, exploring different styles and techniques while maintaining its own approach to brewing.

That curiosity is now shaping an upcoming release, with the team currently crafting its first non-traditional Oktoberfest beer.

Prancing Pony was among the early craft breweries in South Australia to celebrate Oktoberfest and has traditionally produced beers in keeping with the occasion. This year, the team is putting its own spin on the style, with tasting notes and further details still to be revealed.

The new release is another example of the brewery’s willingness to experiment while remaining focused on the fundamentals that have defined its success.

For a business that began as a change of pace after corporate careers, the latest international recognition is another reminder of how far Prancing Pony has come.