Bristol Independent Crisp Tasting Championships

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The Robin Hood Pub Celebrates the Best of UK Independent Crisps

Bristol is set to crunch its way into history with the first-ever Bristol Independent Crisp Tasting Championships, taking place on Saturday 2nd November from 4pm at The Robin Hood Pub, located on St Michael’s Hill.

This exciting event, hosted by The Robin Hood, aims to bring together crisp enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone with a passion for savoury snacks to celebrate and discover some of the finest independent crisp brands from across the UK. With the growing interest in artisan and craft snack options, this championship will highlight the incredible flavours, expertise, and creativity found in the world of independent crisp production.

What to expect:

A diverse selection of crisps from over 30 of the UK’s top independent brands, representing a wide variety of flavours and styles.
A public tasting session where attendees can sample crisps from each brand and vote for their favourites.
Special guest judges from Bristol’s food scene, who will help crown the “Best Independent Crisp” in categories such as Most Unique Flavour, Best Texture, and Overall Champion.
Live music, great drinks from The Robin Hood bar in partnership with Good Chemistry Brewing, and a fun, community-driven atmosphere.

Our Charity Partner

The MAZI Project is a youth-led charity empowering disadvantaged 16-25 year olds through food.

They support care leavers, young asylum seekers, youth recovering from homelessness and fleeing domestic violence.

Event details:

Date

Saturday 2nd November 2024

Time

4pm onwards

Location

The Robin Hood Pub, St Michael’s Hill, Bristol

Award Categories:

Best Packaging Design – Celebrating the most eye-catching and creative packaging
Most Unique Flavour – Recognising the crisps with the most unusual and adventurous flavour profile
Best Vegan Crisp – Awarded to the tastiest vegan-friendly crisps
Best Texture – For the crisps with the perfect crunch or mouthfeel
Best Use of Local Ingredients – Highlighting crisps that feature locally sourced ingredients
Best Flavour Pairing – For the crisps that combine flavours in a perfectly balanced way
Healthiest Crisp – Recognising the most nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavour
Best Vegetable Crisp – For the top non-potato-based crisps (e.g., parsnip, beetroot, or kale)
Best Artisan Crisp – Awarded to the brand that showcases true craftsmanship and small-batch quality
People’s Choice Award – The crowd’s favourite, as voted by all attendees
Best Pub Snack Crisp – The crisps that pair best with a pint!
Best Eco-Friendly Brand – Celebrating a brand with sustainable practices, such as compostable packaging or environmentally friendly production methods
Best Spicy Crisp – For those who like a bit of heat, this award goes to the crisps with the best spicy flavour
Crisp of the Year – The ultimate accolade for the standout crisp of the event

Brewery Tap Takeover

Good Chemistry was established in 2015 in a warehouse in St Philips, Bristol, by Bob Cary and Kelly Sidgwick, using a 10-barrel plant. As the name suggests, all brewery and beer logos have a scientific theme. The brewery has a taproom and canned beer shop, and it also operates two pubs in Bristol: the historic King’s Head, BS1, and The Good Measure, Redland.

We’ll be hosting 5 keg and 3 cask lines of Good Chemistry at The Robin Hood during the Bristol Independent Crisp Tasting Championships

The Judging Panel

Josh Eggleton

Michelin-Starred Chef and Restaurateur

A celebrated name in the culinary world, Josh Eggleton is known for his commitment to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. As a Michelin-starred chef, he brings a refined palate and deep knowledge of flavour pairings to the judging panel, ensuring each entry is evaluated with expertise and precision.

Heather Mack

Green Councillor and Deputy Leader of Bristol Council

Heather is a dedicated advocate for environmental sustainability and social equity in Bristol. As Deputy Leader of Bristol Council, she champions initiatives that support local businesses and sustainable practices. Her role on the judging panel brings a focus on eco-friendly approaches and community impact.

Matt Horan

Podcaster and Sports Media

Matt is a key figure in the world of cricket media, known for his involvement with the “Tailenders” podcast alongside cricket legends Jimmy Anderson, Greg James, and Felix White. As an influential voice in the world of sports and social media, Matt’s unique perspective will help bring a fresh view to the tasting process and support the community spirit.

Edward Ford

Head of Food and Beverage Operations, Madresfield

Edward brings extensive experience managing high-end food and beverage operations, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and locally sourced ingredients. At Madresfield Estate, he has a reputation for promoting regional flavours and artisanal producers.

Denny Ray Veazey

Chef and Founder, The Hanoi Social

Dennis is known for his innovative culinary approach at The Hanoi Social, where he blends Southeast Asian flavours with local British ingredients. With a keen sense for bold and unique tastes, Dennis will lend his expertise in evaluating the creativity of each entry’s flavour profile.

Jim Walkerdine

Sales Representative, Good Chemistry Brewing

Jim represents one of Bristol’s top independent breweries, Good Chemistry Brewing, known for its craft beer offerings. With a deep understanding of how flavour profiles interact, he will bring a valuable perspective to categories such as “Best Pub Snack Crisp.”

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