A fierce good idea from Louth brothers-in-law sees new non-alcoholic beer hit the shelves as finalist in Grow with Aldi competition

Fierce Mild, a new non-alcoholic beer brewed in Dundalk, is now available nationwide for the two weeks from May 23 as one of 27 finalists in the Grow with ALDI competition.

The zero alcohol beer is the brainchild of brothers-in-law Fergal Carroll from Blackrock and Cathal Byrne from the Avenue Road who sat beside each other in school.

After school, their paths took them their separate ways. Fergal travelled to Australia and New Zealand, working in the brewing industry, while Cathal, who has a degree in finance and accounting, moved to Canada where he worked in the film and tv industry.

Fierce Mild has its roots in Melbourne Australia, where, back in 2016 Fergal started experimental brewing in his garage.

Fast forward to 2021, he returned to Ireland and reconnected with Cathal, who was also back home, working for the Oscar-winning Element Pictures film and tv production company.

They both noticed that there wasn’t the same level of choice for drinkers of non-alcoholic beers in Ireland as there was abroad and that often bars only made a token gesture to those who wanted a zero alcoholic choice.

Together they embarked on a mission to craft a non-alcoholic beer that would retain the character of traditional brewing while delivering a refreshing, full-flavored experience.

“Fierce Mild is not just another non-alcoholic beer,” explains Fergal. “We’re a beer defined by addition, not subtraction. We use a specialised yeast and a trilogy of hops resulting in a sessionable beer full of character. We are dedicated to non alcoholic beer and fully intend on pushing the boundaries of this category, while making it accessible for everybody to enjoy.”

They use a method of brewing using a specialised yeast that Fergal worked with in Australia, ensuring that the flavour isn’t compromised.

“It’s got heaps of character, good flavour and drinkability,” he says.

The journey from concept to market was fuelled by local support and innovation. The Louth Local Enterprise Office provided invaluable assistance, offering grants to help bring the idea to fruition. Years of research and development followed, with meticulous attention to every detail, from brewing to branding.

“We got great support from the Local Enterprise Office and also from Bord Bia,” says Fergal.

Fierce mild is brewed on the site of the historic Old Macardle Moore Brewery on the Ardee Road, helping to continue Dundalk’s strong links to the brewing industry.

The distinctive pale ale is now available in bars, restaurants and off-licenses across Ireland, gaining traction and recognition for its exceptional taste and quality.

Notably, the brewery was selected as a finalist in the Grow with Aldi Bord Bia programme earning a short-term listing in 161 stores across the country this month.

“We are thrilled to have the chance to share our craft with ALDI customers across the country and can’t wait to continue this journey with the Grow with ALDI family.”

Fierce Mild is also available in a number of pubs in Dundalk and also at Supervalu and they company is expanding their list of stockists around the country daily.

Audiences going to the screening of From a Forest to a Fiddle in An Tain Arts Centre on May 31 will be able to enjoying a tasting of Fierce Mild and it will also be available at the Mo Chara monthly market.