The Battle of the Beers award was first introduced at the 32nd Durham Beer Festival in 2012. The award is judged by a panel of volunteers in a blind tasting. The recent winners are:
| Year | Winner | Second Place | Third Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | New Direction (George Samuel) | UK Pale Ale (Consett) | XIV (Hill Island) |
| 2016 | Harvey (George Samuel) | I Shall But Love (Sonnet 43) | Time To Go (Just A Minute) |
| 2015 | Mannekin Wit IPA (Brewlab US/Canada) | Star Spangled (George Samuel) | Durham Wheat (Jam Brewery) |
| 2014 | Red Herring (Durham) | Maple Rye (Tyne Bank) | Ruby Tuesday (George Samuel) |
| 2013 | End 56 American IPA (Allendale) | Up To 11 (Hill Island) | Durham Magic (Durham) |
| 2012 | End 32 (Allendale) | Flamebearer (Yard of Ale) | - |