Two Gwent-based breweries, including one owned by a Cwmbran man, have made national headlines after scooping five medals at the 2025 Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) Wales Awards – all during the first year of their brewing partnership.
Lee Dunning, from Cwmbran, of Weird Dad Brewery, and Matt Aylwin of Misfit Brewery joined forces in 2024 to share their expertise and passion for craft beer.
Their collaboration has already produced award-winning results, with Trash Panda Coffee & Vanilla Porter and Weird Dad CAMRA Man Session Cask Ale both receiving gold medals and category champion titles.
The beers are now available to taste locally at their two taprooms. The Weird Dad Taproom, based at 23 Caerleon Road, Newport, was recently named runner-up for Best Pub in Gwent at this year’s CAMRA Awards.
Meanwhile, Misfit Brewery serves its creations at The Cellar Door on Clytha Street, Newport. The brewery will celebrate its second anniversary over Halloween, with special beer releases and collaborative brews planned for the occasion.
Lee said: “This recognition highlights the strength of local craft brewing and the incredible talent we have right here in Gwent. It’s a proud moment for our partnership and our community.”
