Speight’s Mid Ale was the somewhat controversial (in some circles) trophy winner of the Specialty & Experimental Category at the 2021 Brewers Guild Awards. The secret to this unpretentious and affordable light beer’s (2.5 per cent ABV) success is its resolve to keep things simple. Rather than trying to emulate some hop-driven style, Speights Mid is a largely malt-driven beer that replicates the Speight’s Gold Medal Ale experience with remarkable precision, given it’s almost half the strength. Smooth, mild maltiness with just enough hop bitterness to keep the flavour refreshing. It’s got plenty going on to keep the palate engaged, and with a typical price of less than $1.50 a bottle, it’s supreme affordability should not be understated.