AN ISLE of Wight brewery is seeking to expand and innovate its craft beer ranges ahead of this summer.

Wight Knuckle Brewery was founded in January 2021, following a chat between a father and his two sons at Christmas.

George Bristow, and his sons Ed and Fergus, wanted to create a modern, new brand for Islanders and tourists to enjoy.

Based out of The Pilot Boat Inn in Bembridge, Wight Knuckle Brewery boasts eight beer ranges after upping production over the past year.

Isle of Wight County Press: The beer garden at The Pilot Boat Inn. Picture courtesy of Wight Knuckle Brewery.The beer garden at The Pilot Boat Inn. Picture courtesy of Wight Knuckle Brewery.

Their craft beer was served in Island pubs by the summer of last year.

On December 15, 2021, the brewery and pub opened its taproom and pizzeria after diving into the unknown and buying a stone-baked pizza oven, bringing on board a chef and developing a pizza menu.

In the business's first year, 10,327 pints of beer were bought, 2,481 gallons of beer were brewed, and 206 mini-kegs were sold.

Five different locations served its beer on the Island, and nine events, including four weddings, served its beer.

Isle of Wight County Press: The taproom and pizzeria opened in December 2021. Picture courtesy of Wight Knuckle Brewery.The taproom and pizzeria opened in December 2021. Picture courtesy of Wight Knuckle Brewery.

Co-founded Ed told the County Press about the brewery’s conservation efforts.

Every year the business will support local conservation projects, like the RSPB sea eagle reintroduction project, by donating a portion of its profits to help protest the Island’s habitat.

This year, the Island brewery intends to expand the business to include events, such as weddings.

The Pilot Inn will host a Beer Festival in April, the date yet to be confirmed, where customers can taste test the Wight Knuckle range at a discounted rate.

Isle of Wight County Press: The Pilot Boat Inn is found in Bembridge Harbour. Picture courtesy of Wight Knuckle Brewery.The Pilot Boat Inn is found in Bembridge Harbour. Picture courtesy of Wight Knuckle Brewery.

Discussions are in place for a Cowes Week pop-up, to bring the company's craft beer to a wider customer base.

Earlier this year, an agreement with Wessex Wines was signed, for next day distribution to pubs and shops, with plans to expand reach nationwide.

Co-founder Ed said: “With more beers in the works, we’re really excited about it. We can’t wait to bring the Island exciting new craft beer!

“We’re really fortunate to have the support of the local community.”

To find out more visit the Wight Knuckle Brewery website.