Shepherd Neame is to showcase one of its beers in Tesco after winning the chain's Autumn Beer Challenge. It is the first time the Faversham-based brewer has won the competition, although it has entered beers on a number of occasions. Shepherd Neame's persistence has been rewarded and Tesco guarantees the winning brew ­ yet to be named ­ wide distribution for 36 weeks. Production director Ian Dixon put his company's success down to cutting out gimmicks. He said: "Before the challenge we tasted a cross-section of past winners and decided to eradicate any gimmicks ­ no elderflowers or ginger, no honey or chocolate. The result is a well balanced, bitter and hoppy, traditional Kentish ale." The small brewer category was won by the Wickwar brewery in Gloucestershire with its 5.9% abv Mr Perrett's Traditional Stout which Tesco will also stock. The two beers were judged the best of 93 entries and will go on Tesco shelves in October. {{DRINKS }}

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