Colwyn Bay microbrewery opens new taproom in Denbigh

The Black Cloak beers have, for the past six years since the company was launched, only been available to visitors to its Abergele Road taproom bar.

But following a successful soft-launch trial event in early August, the brewers are welcoming all to enjoy the hospitality of their new bar on Denbigh's Colomendy Industrial Estate.

The move means the brewery can also consider supplying trade customers in pubs across North Wales.

"We're thrilled to have had so much support from our customers and our community, which has allowed us to undertake this expansion," said Black Cloak founder, Max Harris.

"We're now able to brew more beer, take on more staff and serve more thirsty customers across North Wales."

Black Cloak founder, Max Harris (Image: Submitted)

The brewery has built a loyal following of customers, and its taproom in Colwyn Bay has become known for offering sought-after brews, and a wide variety of craft beers, alongside traditional classic cask ales.

Max and co-founder Andrew Randles met while working together at Heavy Industry Brewing in the nearby village of Henllan.

"We're chuffed to bits," said Andrew, manager of the Colwyn Bay bar, awarded Abercolwyn CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) Pub of the Year 2022.

"It's very special to be returning to our old stomping ground, and we're really pleased to bring our beer to more customers."

Beer campaigners have welcomed the expansion, meanwhile.

"It's been a rough couple of years for real ale and the brewing industry, following the boom of the 'craft' beer explosion and the problems caused by the COVID pandemic," said Ian Saunders, chair of the Abercolwyn branch of CAMRA.

"While we've seen breweries shut their doors across the land, it's wonderful to see a good news story - the sustainable organic growth of a brewery right here in North Wales."