UK: BrewDog criticised over 'strongest beer'

Scottish brewer BrewDog has been criticised by responsible drinking campaigners over the launch of its 18% abv Tokyo* beer.

The brewer, which previously caused public outcry when it launched Tokyo at 12%, has now launched Tokyo*, a 330ml bottle of beer to be retailed at GBP9.99 (US$ 16.40).

This beer, thought to be the strongest in the UK, is aimed at a niche market of beer aficionados and will only be available to buy at www.brewdog.com or from specialist, independent retailers.

BrewDog claims Tokyo* will help alleviate the country's irresponsible binge drinking culture by educating consumers about higher quality beer.

But, Alcohol Focus Scotland, a registered charity to promote responsible drinking, has labelled the brewer "deluded" and "utterly irresponsible".

Jack Law, CEO of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: "This company is completely deluded if they think that an 18.2% abv beer will help solve Scotland's alcohol problems… Just one bottle of this beer contains six units of alcohol - twice the recommended daily limit.

"People choosing to drink only 'premium' products are not somehow immune from the harm caused by alcohol."

BrewDog founder James Watt said: "At BrewDog, we are determined to revolutionise the UK beer scene. Our hardcore beers are loaded with flavour, bite and body so consequently you drink less of them… the types of beers we make actually encourage responsible consumption and a better understanding of beer."

Watt believes that the UK's alcohol abuse problems are more the fault of mass-market lagers that are "so bland and tasteless that you are seduced into drinking a lot of them".

Watt said that for the same price as the 18.2% abv Tokyo* bottle "you can purchase a litre bottle of 40% abv spirits". He said: "These are the products people seek out if they choose to abuse alcohol, not premium, high-quality product such as Tokyo*."