Two Yorkshire drinks producers — heritage brewer Theakston and kombucha specialist Equinox — have joined forces to create Hopbucha, an alcohol‑free fermented drink that blends live‑culture kombucha with traditional hop brewing techniques.

The partnership marks the first time a British brewery and kombucha maker have co‑developed a commercial product, uniting Theakston’s 200‑year brewing legacy with Equinox’s expertise in fermented tea. The result is a citrus‑forward, hop‑bittersweet kombucha designed to appeal to adults seeking complex, non‑alcoholic options.

Theakston said the collaboration grew from a shared interest in fermentation craft and the rapid rise of the no‑and‑low category. The brewer, known for its classic ales and more recently its 0.0% Nowt Peculier, wanted to expand its alcohol‑free portfolio with a drink that still delivered “proper” beer‑like refreshment. Equinox, meanwhile, saw an opportunity to push kombucha into new flavour territory and elevate its presence in mainstream retail.

Hopbucha is brewed using Equinox’s organic kombucha base, then infused with Theakston’s hop blend to create a profile that balances acidity, citrus and gentle bitterness. The drink has already secured a Great Taste Award, providing early validation for the cross‑category experiment.

The launch begins online through Amazon, Theakston’s website and Equinox’s direct‑to‑consumer channels, with wider retail and hospitality distribution planned.