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Beer

America’s Top 10 Beer Cities For Beer Drinkers

May 3, 2025 by Rick Roberts

Top 10 Beer Cities

Grab your pint glass and buckle up, beer lovers! The U.S. is a frothy paradise for craft beer enthusiasts, with cities bubbling over with breweries, taprooms, and festivals that celebrate the art of the brew. From hop-heavy IPAs to funky sours and crisp lagers, these 10 cities are the ultimate destinations for anyone who thinks life’s too short for bad beer. Let’s dive into the sudsy goodness of America’s top 10 beer cities!

Top 10 American Beer Cities for 2025

  1. Chicago, IL – Still the undisputed king. Over 100 breweries, from Revolution’s Deep Wood monsters to the wild-mouse sours at Off Color. Goose Island keeps cranking out Bourbon County while the neighborhood joints fight for your taproom dollar. Deep-dish + hazy IPA = religious experience.
  2. Pittsburgh, PA – Cheap pints ($4–$5 in many places), 76 breweries, and a ridiculous 9.4 breweries per 100,000 people. Penn Brewery lagers, Grist House weirdness, and a city that still treats beer like a blue-collar birthright. The Steel City quietly became a monster.
  3. Asheville, NC – 28+ breweries per 100,000 residents. Burial, Wicked Weed Funk House, and Hi-Wire’s circus-themed taproom are mandatory. If you leave without drinking something wild aged in bourbon barrels, you did it wrong.
  4. Denver, CO – Home of GABF and 90+ breweries. Great Divide Yeti variants, Cerebral’s haze bombs, and more mountain water clarity than you can shake a hydrometer at. Altitude + ABV is a real combo—just hydrate, champ.
  5. Portland, OR – The city that taught America to care. Cascade sours, Great Notion berry-milkshake IPAs, and more beard-to-beer ratios than anywhere else. Still weird, still proud, still one of the best beer towns on the planet.
  6. San Diego, CA – 150 breweries and the spiritual home of the modern West Coast IPA. Stone, Pure Project, Modern Times, and a hundred others are all within a burrito’s throw. Sunshine, tacos, and 7.5% juicy doubles—life could be worse.
  7. Grand Rapids, MI – Founders put it on the map, but Brewery Vivant, Mitten Brewing, and 80+ others keep it there. The Ale Trail is legit, the beer fests are nonstop, and the people are so nice you’ll almost feel guilty crushing five imperial stouts.
  8. Milwaukee, WI – Yeah, yeah, Miller and the old giants, but Lakefront, Good City, and Eagle Park are doing the real work now. Cheap, delicious, and you can literally drink on the lakefront while watching cargo ships. Midwest swagger at its peak.
  9. Cincinnati, OH – Over-the-Rhine is one of the densest, most beautiful beer districts in America. Rhinegeist’s rooftop, MadTree’s pizza-beer paradise, and the biggest Oktoberfest outside Munich. Bonus points for putting chili on spaghetti and still winning.
  10. Bend, OR – Tiny town, absurd beer-per-capita ratio. Deschutes, Crux fermentation project, Ale Apothecary’s $40 wild ales—doesn’t matter, it’s all stupidly good. Sip a fresh Abyss on the river, then go climb a volcano.

Why These Cities Actually Rule

It’s not just the raw numbers (though the brewery counts are stupid). It’s the whole package: brewers who still geek out over every batch, taprooms that feel like someone’s ridiculously talented living room, and festivals where you walk in alone and leave with twelve new friends and a mild hangover. Pittsburgh and Cincinnati dominate because beer is still cheap and everywhere—SmartAsset didn’t lie. Asheville and Grand Rapids earned their “Beer City, USA” crowns the old-fashioned way: people voted with their livers. From West Coast hop bombs to Midwest lager love, these places aren’t playing around. They’re the real deal.

Plan the Damn Trip Already

Grab the keys, book the flight, whatever. Download the Denver Beer Trail, the Grand Rapids Ale Trail, or just wing it—every one of these cities makes it impossible to choose poorly. Hit GABF in Denver, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati in Cincinnati, or any random weekend in Bend and thank me later. Pair the pints with whatever the locals swear by: brats and Lakefront lager in Milwaukee, al pastor tacos and a hazy in San Diego, or a giant slice of deep-dish while you wait for your table at Revolution in Chicago.

Point is, the beer’s ice-cold, the people are unreasonably friendly, and 2025 is begging for an epic American beer road trip. Your couch isn’t going anywhere. Go drink these cities dry. Cheers.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer

The History of the August Schell Brewing Company

May 3, 2025 by Andrew Innes

The History of the August Schell Brewing

Nestled along the Cottonwood River in New Ulm, Minnesota, the August Schell Brewing Company stands as a testament to family tradition, German heritage, and unwavering resilience. Founded in 1860 by German immigrant August Schell, it is the second-oldest family-owned brewery in the United States, surpassed only by D.G. Yuengling & Son. As one of the few pre-Prohibition breweries still operating under family control, Schell’s has weathered wars, economic turmoil, and the 13-year ordeal of Prohibition, emerging as a cornerstone of American brewing history. This article delves into the brewery’s origins, its survival through Prohibition, and its enduring legacy as a craft beer pioneer.

The History of August Schell Brewing Company
August Schell was born on February 15, 1828, in Durbach, in the Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany. At age 20, he immigrated to the United States in 1848, seeking opportunity amid the political unrest following the failed revolutions in Europe. After working as a machinist in Cincinnati, Ohio, Schell joined a group of German immigrants from the Turner Society, a cultural and gymnastic organization, to co-found the town of New Ulm, Minnesota, in 1857. Recognizing the growing German population’s thirst for traditional beer, Schell partnered with Jacob Bernhardt, a former brewmaster, to establish a small brewery in 1860. They chose a scenic site two miles from New Ulm’s center, where spring water and ice from the Cottonwood River provided ideal brewing conditions.

The brewery began modestly, producing about 200 barrels annually. In 1866, Schell bought out Bernhardt, assuming sole ownership and initiating an unbroken chain of family stewardship. Despite challenges like the Dakota War of 1862, which damaged much of New Ulm but spared the brewery, Schell’s operation grew steadily. By the 1880s, the family built a grand mansion, gardens, and a deer park on the brewery grounds, now listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. August invested in advanced equipment, including a $25,000 copper brew kettle, optimizing production for the acidic wort and beer. When August died in 1891, his wife, Theresa, inherited the brewery, with their son Otto, who had studied brewing in Germany, taking over management.

Modernization and Pre-Prohibition Growth
Otto Schell modernized the brewery, introducing refrigeration by 1900, which replaced the reliance on river ice stored in caves to control fermentation temperatures. This allowed year-round brewing, boosting production. The brewery was incorporated in 1902 as the August Schell Brewing Company, with Otto as president, Theresa as vice-president, and George Marti, August’s son-in-law, as secretary-treasurer. The company thrived, serving the region’s German-American communities, though it faced competition from larger breweries like Anheuser-Busch and local rivals in New Ulm, such as Hauenstein Brewery. Otto’s sudden death in 1911, followed by Theresa’s four months later, left George Marti in charge, steering the brewery toward its greatest challenge: Prohibition.

Surviving Prohibition: Adaptation and Grit
The passage of the 18th Amendment in 1919, enacting Prohibition, banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, devastating the American brewing industry. Of the roughly 1,900 breweries operating in 1915, only about 600 survived by 1934. Schell’s was among the fortunate few, thanks to strategic adaptation led by George Marti. The brewery shifted to producing “near-beer” (a low-alcohol beverage with less than 0.5% ABV, legal during Prohibition), soft drinks, and candy. It also began making 1919 Root Beer, named for the year Prohibition began, which remains a popular product today.

To generate income, Schell’s sold off taverns and properties it owned in nearby towns, which had previously ensured exclusive distribution of its beer. A ledger from the 1920s, displayed in the brewery’s museum, records inventories of these non-alcoholic products, while an ebulliometer used to verify near-beer’s alcohol content underscores the scrutiny breweries faced. Despite these efforts, survival was precarious, and the brewery nearly closed. Family lore recounts illicit moonshining, with a still—later destroyed by George Marti to avoid federal detection—kept in the brewery museum as a relic of those desperate times.

When Prohibition ended with the 21st Amendment in 1933, Schell’s swiftly resumed brewing. Having maintained its equipment, the transition was smoother than for many competitors. George Marti’s leadership ensured the brewery’s survival, but he died in 1934, passing the reins to his wife, Emma, and son, Alfred (“Al”) Marti, who became president and manager.

Post-Prohibition Recovery and Challenges
Al Marti led Schell’s through the post-Prohibition era, a time of industry consolidation. By the 1950s, large breweries like Budweiser and Miller dominated, out-advertising smaller operations. Schell’s maintained a regional foothold, bolstered by New Ulm’s tight-knit German community. Al added local flair by founding the Schell’s Hobo Band, a community ensemble still active today. However, by the 1970s, only 42 U.S. breweries remained, and Schell’s faced severe financial strain. In a desperate move, the brewery sold lumber from a massive black walnut tree on its grounds to keep its doors open.

In 1969, Al retired, and his son Warren Marti took over. Warren diversified the product line with Schell’s Export Beer, Schell’s Light Beer, and the continued production of 1919 Root Beer. Despite these efforts, the rise of “mega-breweries” threatened small operations. Warren’s persistence and the brewery’s historical grounds, including the sale of the walnut tree, were critical to its survival.

The Craft Beer Renaissance and Modern Success
The turning point came in 1984 when Warren’s son, Ted Marti, assumed operations, becoming president in 1985. Trained at the Siebel Institute of Brewing and having studied under German brewers, Ted spearheaded Schell’s entry into the craft beer movement. In 1984, Schell’s brewed the first American wheat beer since Prohibition, a German-style Weiss Beer that evolved into its seasonal Hefeweizen. Ted introduced craft brews like Schell’s Pilsener, which won a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival in 1988, and others, such as Alt and Pale Ale, which earned medals for their quality. By the 1990s, Schell’s produced 38 different beers, establishing a reputation for innovation.

In 2002, Schell’s acquired the Grain Belt brand after the Minnesota Brewing Company’s bankruptcy, expanding its portfolio with varieties like Grain Belt Nordeast (2010) and Southwest Cerveza (2019). A state-of-the-art brewhouse added in 1999 enhanced production capacity, while a gift shop and taproom opened in 2005, boosting tourism. The brewery’s grounds, with their historic mansion and gardens, draw thousands annually for tours, beer tastings, and events like Bock Fest and Oktoberfest, reinforcing its cultural significance.

Ted’s sons—Jace, Kyle, and Franz—represent the sixth generation, with Jace leading the Noble Star Collection of sour Berliner Weisse beers until his departure in 2024 to pursue distilling. The Starkeller facility, opened for these sour ales, now serves as a taproom. In 2020, Schell’s celebrated its 160th anniversary with the “Shift Happens” series, honoring its adaptability and Ted’s transition to his sons’ leadership. Today, Schell’s brews about 110,000 barrels annually, with 85% of sales in Minnesota, and distributes to several Midwestern states.

Legacy and Cultural Impact
The August Schell Brewing Company’s endurance is remarkable in an industry where most pre-Prohibition breweries vanished. Its survival stems from family dedication, strategic adaptation, and a deep connection to German heritage. The brewery’s focus on traditional German-style lagers and ales, combined with craft beer innovation, has earned it accolades, including a national reputation for Pilsners and Weiss beers. Its grounds, listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, and events like Bock Fest embody its role as a cultural hub in New Ulm.

Schell’s also reflects broader themes of German-American entrepreneurship. August’s involvement with the Turner Society highlights the role of ethnic networks in building businesses, while the brewery’s navigation of Prohibition and industry consolidation showcases resilience. Unlike many contemporaries, such as Mankato Brewing Co., which closed in 1969, Schell’s thrived by anticipating trends and maintaining regional loyalty.

As Ted Marti steps back, his sons are poised to carry the brewery forward, blending tradition with innovation. From August’s frontier vision to Ted’s craft beer revolution, Schell’s remains a beacon of family-owned brewing, proving that, as their 2020 campaign declared, “Shift Happens.” Here’s to a brewery that has poured history, one beer at a time, for over 160 years.

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Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, craftbeer

Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth IPA: A Beer with a Bold Name and Bolder Flavor

May 3, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth: A Beer with a Bold Name and Bolder Flavor

In the world of craft beer, where names often lean into the quirky or provocative, Printer’s Ale Manufacturing Co. out of Carrollton, Georgia, has raised the bar with their New England IPA, Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth. This beer, a draft-only offering in the Atlanta market, isn’t just a catchy name—it’s a juicy, hazy triumph that delivers on flavor while poking playful fun at Hollywood’s ever-polarizing Ben Affleck.

The Beer Behind the Name
Let’s get one thing straight: Printer’s Ale isn’t throwing shade at Affleck out of malice. As they’ve stated, they don’t hate the guy—they just found his casting as Batman a bit… questionable, and his on-screen mouth a tad distracting. The name is a tongue-in-cheek nod to Affleck’s larger-than-life persona, and the beer itself is anything but a gimmick. With a 7.1% ABV and a rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 134 reviews on Untappd, this IPA has won over craft beer fans with its bold profile and smooth execution.

Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth is a New England-style IPA, known for its hazy appearance, juicy fruit flavors, and soft mouthfeel. Brewed with Citra, Galaxy, and Newzill hops, it bursts with tropical notes—think mango, pineapple, and citrus zest—balanced by a subtle bitterness that keeps it refreshing. Unlike some NEIPAs, this one skips the lactose, letting the hops shine without a creamy heft. The result is a medium-bodied beer that’s smooth yet punchy, living up to its description as “a big, fat, juicy beer that is ready to win you over with all the haze and mystery.”

A Hero No One Asked For, But Everyone Deserves
Printer’s Ale markets this beer as “the hero no one asked for but the beer everyone deserves,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s not just about the name’s irreverence; it’s about crafting a beer that stands out in a crowded IPA landscape. The brewery’s Instagram showcases the beer’s vibrant, cloudy pour, often served at local spots like The Nest Kennesaw, Westside Motor Lounge, and Mellow Mushroom, where fans have praised its drinkability and bold hop character.

Reviews on Untappd highlight its appeal. One drinker, Valerie Mueller, called it “excellent” and one of her favorites, while others have earned “Haze for Days” badges for sipping this cloudy delight. Posts from late 2023 show it pouring at various Atlanta-area taprooms, with fans snapping photos of its golden haze and raving about its juicy profile.

The Affleck Connection: Why the Name?
The name Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth stems from Printer’s Ale’s cheeky take on Affleck’s Batman role, particularly in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. They’ve noted his “freakin’ huge” mouth as a visual quirk, but the beer isn’t a roast—it’s a celebration of fun, bold choices, much like Affleck’s own career. From Oscar-winning screenwriter (Good Will Hunting) to polarizing superhero, Affleck’s journey mirrors the beer’s audacity: it’s unapologetic, divisive, and undeniably memorable.

The brewery’s lighthearted jab also taps into a cultural moment. Affleck has long been meme fodder, from “Sad Affleck” videos to paparazzi shots of him smoking or spilling Dunkin’ coffee. Yet, he’s also been open about his struggles with addiction and fame, earning empathy from many. This beer, in a way, captures that duality—mocking the Hollywood caricature while offering something genuinely enjoyable to sip on.

Where to Find It
Available exclusively on draft in Atlanta and surrounding areas, Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth is distributed through Atlanta Beverage in Georgia. Check Printer’s Ale’s Instagram (@printersbeer) for updates on where it’s pouring next. Popular spots include Printer’s Ale’s own taproom, IPPS, and La Trattoria: A Classic Italian Kitchen, where it’s been a hit with locals.

Final Sip
Printer’s Ale has crafted more than just a beer with a headline-grabbing name. Ben Affleck Has A Big, Fat, Stupid Mouth is a well-executed NEIPA that balances humor with quality. It’s a reminder that craft beer can be playful without sacrificing substance, much like a good Affleck flick—love him or hate him, you can’t look away. So, grab a pint, raise a glass to bold choices, and enjoy this hazy hero that’s as juicy as the gossip it’s named for.

 

For More Information:
https://www.instagram.com/printersbeer/

Filed Under: Beer, craft lager, IPA

Princess Wears Girlpants Golden Ale – Craft Beer of the Day

May 2, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

The Princes Wears GirlpantsPrincess Wears Girlpants Golden Ale – Craft Beer of the Day
Nestled in Gravenhurst, Ontario, the gateway to Muskoka, Sawdust City Brewing Company has carved out a reputation for crafting exceptional beers that capture the spirit of their region. Among their standout offerings is The Princess Wears Girlpants, a bold and unique Muskokan Saison that defies traditional beer styles while celebrating friendship, locality, and the joys of sharing a pint. This article dives into the story, flavor profile, and cultural significance of this 9% ABV hoppy Belgian-inspired golden ale, a seasonal favorite that’s as aromatic as it is easy-drinking.

The Origin Story: A Beer for Friends

The Princess Wears Girlpants was born from a desire to please two friends with distinct tastes—one a fan of hoppy ales, the other enamored with Belgian ales and saisons. Rather than compromising, Sawdust City’s brew team, led by Brewmaster Sam Corbeil, decided to blend these preferences into something entirely new. The result? A beer that doesn’t fit neatly into any style but embodies the essence of Muskoka’s spring and summer seasons. As the brewery describes it, this is a beer about “our hometown, our friends, and our history.” It’s a tribute to the moments spent outdoors, enjoying nature and good company.

The name itself, The Princess Wears Girlpants, reflects the brewery’s playful yet defiant approach to convention. It’s a nod to owning one’s identity and creating something that speaks to who they are—a Muskokan Saison, a term coined by Sawdust City to capture its regional and stylistic uniqueness. Available from March to August, this seasonal release is designed for sharing, encouraging drinkers to grab a can, a few glasses, and their closest friends.

Flavor Profile and Brewing Process

The Princess Wears Girlpants is a hazy golden ale that pours with a chunky, pure white head and leaves behind impressive lacing. Its aroma is a vibrant mix of fruity, citrusy hops and spicy, fruity yeast esters, with notes of tropical fruit, pear, lemon, cloves, and cotton candy. The flavor follows suit, balancing hoppy bitterness with Belgian-inspired complexity. Loaded with Ella, Galaxy, and Amarillo hops, the beer delivers a juicy citrus and tropical fruit character, complemented by a spicy clove backbone and a moderately dry, highly carbonated finish. At 9% ABV and 35 IBU, it’s a “huge” yet surprisingly drinkable beer, with the alcohol heat present but not overpowering.

Reviewers on platforms like BeerAdvocate and Untappd praise its complexity, with some noting its lean toward Tripel territory due to its light bitterness and lingering fruitiness. Others highlight the hop-forward nature, with Galaxy and Amarillo hops stealing the show, while Ella adds a distinctive twist. However, not all reviews are glowing—some find the bitterness more pronounced than expected or the Belgian character lacking, suggesting it feels more like an IPA than a traditional saison. Despite these critiques, the beer’s unique profile and bold execution make it a standout.

The brewing process reflects Sawdust City’s adventurous spirit. The beer began as a hoppy Belgian golden ale but evolved into a Muskokan Saison, a style the brewery defines on its own terms. The use of New Zealand and American hops, combined with Belgian yeast strains, creates a fusion of Old World and New World flavors. Over the years, Sawdust City has experimented with variations, such as The Princess Wears Girlpants Saison with Guava and The Princess & Girlpants Meet the ODB, a barrel-aged version with oak and funk notes, showcasing their willingness to push boundaries.

Cultural and Community Impact

The Princess Wears Girlpants is more than just a beer—it’s a celebration of Muskoka’s identity and Sawdust City’s commitment to community. The brewery, founded by Sam Corbeil and Rob Engman, draws heavily on the region’s pioneer spirit, and this beer embodies that ethos. It’s a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures of life—friends, nature, and a well-crafted brew. The beer’s seasonal release aligns with Muskoka’s vibrant spring and summer, making it a staple at cottages, patios, and gatherings across Ontario.

Available at Sawdust City’s retail shop, online store, and select beer bars in Ontario, The Princess Wears Girlpants has become a fan favorite since its debut. Its return each year, as noted in a 2019 Canadian Beer News announcement, is a highlight of the brewery’s 52-week release schedule. The beer’s versatility also makes it a great pairing for a wide range of foods, from spicy dishes to creamy cheeses, further cementing its place in Ontario’s craft beer culture.

The beer has also inspired spin-offs and collaborations, such as The Princess Wears Hot Pants, a Belgian Blonde with a peppery twist, and Bizarro The Princess Wears Girlpants, a wild ale. These variations highlight Sawdust City’s innovative approach and willingness to experiment while staying true to the core identity of the original.

Why It Stands Out

In a crowded craft beer market, The Princess Wears Girlpants distinguishes itself through its bold flavors, unique style, and heartfelt story. It’s a beer that doesn’t aim to conform but instead creates its own category—a Muskokan Saison that’s as much about place and people as it is about taste. With an average rating of 3.7/5 on Untappd and 85/100 on BeerAdvocate, it’s clear that this beer resonates with many, even if it occasionally divides opinions due to its unconventional profile.

For those looking to experience Muskoka in a glass, The Princess Wears Girlpants is a must-try. It’s a testament to Sawdust City Brewing’s dedication to crafting beers that tell a story, challenge expectations, and bring people together. So, as the brewery suggests, grab a can, pour a few glasses, and toast to the friends and moments that make life special.

Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer

2024 Great American Beer Festival Medal Winners

May 1, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

2024 Great American Beer Festival Medal Winners 

The 2024 Great American Beer Festival (GABF), held October 10-12 in Denver, Colorado, celebrated its 42nd year as the world’s largest commercial beer competition and craft beverage extravaganza, drawing over 60,000 attendees to sample more than 3,000 beers from 700+ U.S. breweries. Organized by the Brewers Association, the event expanded its scope by introducing five new cider categories and incorporating the national homebrew conference, alongside themed experience areas, live music on the Mile High Stage, and innovative activations like non-alcoholic stations and canned cocktails. Amid a vibrant atmosphere of food trucks, taprooms, and costumed revelry at the Colorado Convention Center, the festival underscored the resilience and creativity of the craft beer industry post-pandemic.

In a standout moment, the GABF awards ceremony at Bellco Theatre unveiled 326 medals across 102 beer styles and emerging cider segments, honoring 273 breweries and cideries from a record 9,200+ entries judged blindly by 285 experts. Standout victors included San Diego’s five gold medalists—such as AleSmith Brewing’s .394 Pale Ale and Burgeon Beer’s Cardinal IPA—highlighting the city’s craft prowess with 12 total medals, while Oregon dominated with 38 accolades, affirming its status as a brewing powerhouse. Ohio’s seven medals, featuring Noble Beast’s Eau Rouge Belgian-style sour, and regional triumphs from California and Texas further showcased national diversity. As Chris Williams, GABF competition director, noted, these honors spotlight “the best of the best in beer and beyond,” inspiring brewers to innovate while inviting enthusiasts to explore award-winning pours year-round.

2024 GABF Medal Winners

Medal Beer Name Brewery State Category
Gold NA Dark Fremont Brewing WA Amber to Dark Non-Alcohol Beer
Silver Non-Alcoholic Oktoberfest Octopi Brewing / Untitled Art WI Amber to Dark Non-Alcohol Beer
Gold Bateman Bier Greenstar Brewing IL American Amber Lager
Silver Las Cruces Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co. CO American Amber Lager
Bronze Big Rock Amber Lager Malibu Brewing Co. CA American Amber Lager
Gold Pretty Good Third Space Brewing WI American Amber/Red Ale
Silver Buttface Amber RAM Restaurant and Brewery – Production WA American Amber/Red Ale
Bronze Object K Site-1 Brewing NE American Amber/Red Ale
Gold Blackside Snap Riip Beer Co. CA American Black Ale or American Stout
Silver Stoup American Stout Stoup Brewing – Capitol Hill WA American Black Ale or American Stout
Bronze A Dark in the Light Radiant Beer Co. CA American Black Ale or American Stout
Gold Was Angeles Craft Beer Uinta Brewing Co. UT American Cream Ale
Silver El Sully 21st Amendment Brewery CA American Cream Ale
Bronze Atascadero Beach Wild Fields Brewhouse CA American Cream Ale
Gold Hey Girl, Hey! Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop – Richmond VA American Fruit Beer
Category Sponsor: Amoretti
Silver A La Playa Trademark Brewing CA American Fruit Beer
Category Sponsor: Amoretti
Bronze Bird Light Yuzu Strangebird NY American Fruit Beer
Category Sponsor: Amoretti
Gold Classic City Lager Creature Comforts – Production Facility At Southern Mill GA American Pilsener
Silver Buccaneer’s Gold Project 9 Brewing Co. WA American Pilsener
Bronze Happy Little Clouds Cloudburst Brewing WA American Pilsener
Gold Bes Little Beast Brewing OR American Sour Ale
Silver Wicked Shifty Shoe Tree Brewing Co. NV American Sour Ale
Bronze Mirage New Terrain Brewing Co. CO American Sour Ale
Gold Fuzztail Sunriver Brewing Co. OR American Wheat Beer
Silver Mercy Cloud Hobcaw Brewing Co. SC American Wheat Beer
Bronze Hoppla NewSylum Brewing Co. CT American Wheat Beer
Gold Silver Medal Worthy Launch Pad Brewery CO American-Belgo-Style Ale
Silver Capitulation Monkless Belgian Ales OR American-Belgo-Style Ale
Bronze Golden Strong Ale with Pink Fowler Ranch Farm Brewery CA American-Belgo-Style Ale
Gold Who’s That Brown Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. CA American-Style Brown Ale
Silver Heart of Glass Three Wide Brewing Co. TX American-Style Brown Ale
Bronze Beckley Furnace Brown Ale Norbrook Farm Brewery CT American-Style Brown Ale
Gold Competition Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown CA American-Style India Pale Ale
Silver One Way Old Caz Beer CA American-Style India Pale Ale
Bronze Lexical Gap Pollyanna Brewing Co. IL American-Style India Pale Ale
Gold Down South Appalachian Mountain Brewery NC American-Style Lager
Silver Modern Classic Counter Weight Brewing Co. CT American-Style Lager
Bronze Pat’s River Beer MAP Brewing Co. MT American-Style Lager
Gold Sky Dog Wiseacre Brewing Co. – Downtown TN American-Style Light Lager
Silver Family Vacation Roadhouse Brewing Co. WY American-Style Light Lager
Bronze Transmission Light Transmission Brewing CA American-Style Light Lager
Gold Timbo Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown CA American-Style Pale Ale
Silver Featherweight Pale Ale Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. CO American-Style Pale Ale
Bronze Bare Bones Disco Bird Creek Brewing TX American-Style Pale Ale
Gold Something Dank This Way Comes Sunriver Brewing Co. OR American-Style Strong Pale Ale
Silver Zero Degrees Shred Beer Co. CA American-Style Strong Pale Ale
Bronze Independence Pass Ale IPA Aspen Brewing Co. CO American-Style Strong Pale Ale
Gold My Cerise Amour Oregon City Brewing Co. OR Belgian Fruit Beer
Silver East of Line Kriek Awkward Brewing GA Belgian Fruit Beer
Bronze Vordrassil Webb’s City Cellar by Green Bench FL Belgian Fruit Beer
Gold LMM Dubbel II Lone Man Mountain Brewing Co. TX Belgian-Style Abbey Ale
Silver Allagash Tripel Allagash Brewing Co. ME Belgian-Style Abbey Ale
Bronze Monks In Space Apogee Brewing Co. CA Belgian-Style Abbey Ale
Gold Le Petit Demon Bonesaw Brewing Co. – Pilot House NJ Belgian-Style Ale or French-Style Ale
Silver DOMESTIQUE Blonde Ale Rouleur Brewing Co. CA Belgian-Style Ale or French-Style Ale
Bronze Aurora Apogee Brewing Co. CA Belgian-Style Ale or French-Style Ale
Gold Eau Rouge Noble Beast Brewing Co. OH Belgian-Style Sour Ale
Silver Apple Pomace Puncheon Angel City Brewery CA Belgian-Style Sour Ale
Bronze Intinction – Petite Sirah Russian River Brewing Co. – Santa Rosa CA Belgian-Style Sour Ale
Gold Kroon Wallenpaupack Brewing Co. PA Belgian-Style Strong Specialty Ale
Silver Pitouchi Attic Brewing Co. PA Belgian-Style Strong Specialty Ale
Bronze Monks on the Moon Apogee Brewing Co. CA Belgian-Style Strong Specialty Ale
Gold Allagash White Allagash Brewing Co. ME Belgian-Style Witbier
Silver Breakside White Breakside Brewery & Taproom OR Belgian-Style Witbier
Bronze Gully Washer Wit Munkle Brewing Co. SC Belgian-Style Witbier
Gold Pan is Alive IMBIB Custom Brews NV Bock
Silver Lawyers, Hogs & Money Bentonville Brewing Co. AR Bock
Bronze Hootenanny Bankhead Brewing Co. TX Bock
Gold Reality Czeck-style Pilsner Moonlight Brewing Co. CA Bohemian-Style Pilsener
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Silver River Delta Czech Pils Silver Bluff Brewing Co. GA Bohemian-Style Pilsener
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Bronze Parachute Pivo Victor-23 Craft Brewery WA Bohemian-Style Pilsener
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Gold First Release Part 2 Peaceful Side Brewery TN Brett Beer
Silver Belle Saison Third Window Brewing Co. CA Brett Beer
Bronze Touch of Brett Alesong Brewing & Blending OR Brett Beer
Gold Don’t Feed the Bears Gatlinburg Brewing Co. TN Brown Porter
Silver Slumber Car Accomplice Beer Co. WY Brown Porter
Bronze Old Tom Porter Piney River Brewing Co. MO Brown Porter
Gold El Poblano Borracho Liquid Mechanics Brewing Co. CO Chili Beer
Silver Jalapeño Saison On Rotation Brewery & Kitchen TX Chili Beer
Bronze Palisade Peak Station 26 Brewing Co. CO Chili Beer
Gold Fudge Sickles Fort George Brewery OR Chocolate Beer
Silver Chocolate Stout Fort Myers Brewing Co. FL Chocolate Beer
Bronze Triple Chocolate Viator Obscura Wandering Monsters Brewing Co. OH Chocolate Beer
Gold Dogwood Saison Devils Backbone Brewing Co. – Basecamp VA Classic Saison
Silver Farm Out Worthy Brewing Co. OR Classic Saison
Bronze Plough & Harrow ISM Brewing CA Classic Saison
Gold Squirrels Just Want to Have Fun River North Brewery – RiNo CO Coffee Beer
Silver Bucky Terranaut Beer OR Coffee Beer
Bronze Gusto Crema Coffee Ale Georgetown Brewing Co. WA Coffee Beer
Gold Dusk Til Dawn Pizza Port San Clemente CA Coffee Stout or Porter
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Silver Venti is Large Hop Dogma Brewing Co. CA Coffee Stout or Porter
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Bronze Shock Treatment New Ridge Brewing Co. PA Coffee Stout or Porter
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Gold Baseball Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown CA Contemporary American-Style Lager
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Bronze Richmond Lager Hardywood Park Craft Brewery VA Contemporary American-Style Lager
Gold 3 Citrus Gose Culture Brewing Co. CA Contemporary Gose
Silver It’s a G Thang Ginger Gose Red Rock Brewing – Production UT Contemporary Gose
Bronze Wild Pear Blue Mountain Barrel House and Organic Brewery VA Contemporary Gose
Gold Pure Nonsense Dade City Brew House FL Dessert Stout or Pastry Stout
Silver Coconut Cluster Heritage Hill Brewhouse NY Dessert Stout or Pastry Stout
Bronze Peanut Butter & Jelly Tiempo Kilowatt Brewing CA Dessert Stout or Pastry Stout
Gold Festbier Glenwood Canyon Brewing Co. CO Dortmunder or German-Style Oktoberfest
Silver Festbier Northwoods Brewing Co. NH Dortmunder or German-Style Oktoberfest
Bronze The Cushman Morgan Territory Brewing CA Dortmunder or German-Style Oktoberfest
Gold Kiitos Pale Ale Kiitos Brewing UT English Ale
Silver Elevated Summer Ale Goose And The Monkey Brewhouse NC English Ale
Bronze Oregon Summer Ale Bend Brewing – High Desert OR English Ale
Gold Distinguished Fellow Project 9 Brewing Co. WA English Mild or Bitter
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Bronze Toasty The Brew Brothers – Scioto Downs Racino OH English Mild or Bitter
Gold Black Cats Streetside Brewery OH English-Style Brown Ale
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Bronze Brown Ale Oliphant Brewing WI English-Style Brown Ale
Gold Great Wave Sake Lager MAP Brewing Co. MT Experimental Beer
Silver Bourbon Maple Wishes and Pecan Dreams Odd Side Ales MI Experimental Beer
Bronze Agrio Morado 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub OR Experimental Beer
Gold Hazy Crush New York Beer Project – Beer Lodge NY Experimental India Pale Ale
Silver Lavender Haze SingleSpeed Brewing IA Experimental India Pale Ale
Bronze East Gruesome Lost Cabin Beer Co. SD Experimental India Pale Ale
Gold Rosé Cider Gowan’s Heirloom Cider CA Experimental or Barrel-Aged Cider
Silver 2019 Pommeau 2 Towns Ciderhouse OR Experimental or Barrel-Aged Cider
Bronze 802 Barrel Aged Vermont Cider Co. VT Experimental or Barrel-Aged Cider
Gold Pub Ale Pilot Brewing Co. NC Extra Special Bitter
Silver Brighton ESB Bravery Brewing Co. CA Extra Special Bitter
Bronze Velvet Organic ESB Hopworks Urban Brewery OR Extra Special Bitter
Gold Fennel Rye Ale Denver Beer Co. – Canworks CO Field Beer
Silver Cucumber Lime Blonde Third Space Brewing WI Field Beer
Bronze That Coconut Porter Cherry Street Brewing GA Field Beer
Gold Fresher Than Fresh Trap Door Brewing WA Fresh Hop Beer
Silver House of 1000 Cones Moonraker Brewing Co. – Production Facility CA Fresh Hop Beer
Bronze Fresh Hop King Crispy Deschutes Brewery & Public House – PDX OR Fresh Hop Beer
Gold Yankee Doodle Shandy River Bluff Brewing MO Fruit Wheat Beer
Silver Enduro Cheluna Brewing Co. CO Fruit Wheat Beer
Bronze Bear Bait Schussboom Brewing Co. NV Fruit Wheat Beer
Gold Peach Silhouette Hudson Valley Brewery NY Fruited American Sour Ale
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Silver Funkberry Pie Girdwood Brewing Co. AK Fruited American Sour Ale
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Bronze Cactus Juice 12Degree Brewing CO Fruited American Sour Ale
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Gold Blackberry Cider McMenamins Breweries OR Fruited or Botanical Cider
Silver Ozark Strawberry Rhubarb Cider Ozark Beer Co. AR Fruited or Botanical Cider
Bronze Pacific Pineapple 2 Towns Ciderhouse OR Fruited or Botanical Cider
Gold Raspberries on Acid Blue Mountain Brewery VA Fruited Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Silver White Dwarf True Anomaly Brewing Co. TX Fruited Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Bronze Cassis Moody Tongue Brewing Co. IL Fruited Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Gold Schwarz Wulf Greywolf Brewing CA German Dark Lager
Silver Flex Fiesta Munich-Style Dark Lager Red Horn Brewery and Roastery TX German Dark Lager
Bronze Chehalis After Dark Talking Cedar Brewing WA German Dark Lager
Gold Baywindow 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub OR German Sour Ale
Silver Disco Lemonade Aslan Brewing Co. WA German Sour Ale
Bronze Gose Kulshan Brewing Co – K2 WA German Sour Ale
Gold Weizenbock Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Mills River NC German Wheat Ale
Silver Kristal Moon Blue Moon Brewing Co. CO German Wheat Ale
Bronze Sixpoint Brewery Mimic Weisse Brewers At 4001 Yancey NC German Wheat Ale
Gold Rhine Divide 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Portland OR German-Style Altbier
Silver Altbier Double Clutch Brewing Co. IL German-Style Altbier
Bronze Altruism Rock Cut Brewing Co. CO German-Style Altbier
Gold Eisbock Northbound Smokehouse Brewpub MN German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock
Silver Co-Conspirator Victor-23 Craft Brewery WA German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock
Bronze Execrator Resolute Brewing Co. CO German-Style Doppelbock or Eisbock
Gold Modern Gothic Columbia Craft Brewing Co. SC German-Style Koelsch
Category Sponsor: Wyeast Laboratories
Silver Kolsch Standard Deviant Brewing CA German-Style Koelsch
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Bronze Brick West Kolsch Brick West Brewing Co. WA German-Style Koelsch
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Gold Pleasantbräu Oktoberfest Soul Brewing Co. NY German-Style Maerzen
Silver Marchtoberfest Galveston Island Brewing TX German-Style Maerzen
Bronze Oktoberfest Left Hand Brewing Co. CO German-Style Maerzen
Gold Haha Pils Arbeiter Brewing Co. MN German-Style Pilsener
Silver Door Code Piece Brewery IL German-Style Pilsener
Bronze Trumer Pils Trumer Brewery CA German-Style Pilsener
Gold Fat Randy Holidaily Brewing Co. CO Gluten-Free Beer
Silver Oktoberfest Orange Bike Brewing Co. ME Gluten-Free Beer
Bronze Pilsner Orange Bike Brewing Co. ME Gluten-Free Beer
Gold Kiitos Blonde Ale Kiitos Brewing UT Golden or Blonde Ale
Silver Easy Mode Logan Brewing Co. WA Golden or Blonde Ale
Bronze Bench Seat Transmission Brewing CA Golden or Blonde Ale
Gold Two Wheeler Far Field Beer Co. CA Herb and Spice Beer
Silver HellFire Club Armored Cow Brewing Co. NC Herb and Spice Beer
Bronze Dill Pickle Field Artisan Brewing IN Herb and Spice Beer
Gold BierKraft Grodziskie BierKraft OK Historical Beer
Silver Decorah Nordic Gruit PIVO Brewery IA Historical Beer
Bronze Kentucky Common Blackhorse Pub & Brewery TN Historical Beer
Gold Hachimitsu Mai Deschutes Brewery & Public House – PDX OR Honey Beer
Silver BeeLoved 10 Barrel Brewing Co. OR Honey Beer
Bronze Animals Strike Curious Poses The Empourium Brewing Co. CO Honey Beer
Gold Infinity Pils Westbound & Down Brewing Co. – Westbound Mill CO Hoppy Lager
Category Sponsor: Coleman Agriculture
Silver Branching Out Everywhere Beer Co. CA Hoppy Lager
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Bronze Rancho Cowabunga Grains of Wrath – Washougal WA Hoppy Lager
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Gold Hoptomic Morgan Territory Brewing CA Imperial India Pale Ale
Category Sponsor: Wyeast Laboratories
Silver Gastropod Grand Fir Brewing OR Imperial India Pale Ale
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Bronze Nose Goblin Ghost Town Brewing CA Imperial India Pale Ale
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Gold Indie Roo Pizza Port – Imperial Beach CA Imperial Stout
Silver Kill the Lights The Tap Brewery IN Imperial Stout
Bronze ReVive 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Portland OR Imperial Stout
Gold Puesto Negra Puesto Cerveceria CA International Dark Lager
Silver Czech-6 Eagle River Brewing Co. CO International Dark Lager
Bronze Czech Dark Lager Structures Brewing WA International Dark Lager
Gold Light Lager Seapine Brewing Co. WA International Light Lager
Silver Wakumi Mother Earth Brew Co. ID International Light Lager
Bronze Wondrous Hell Wondrous Brewing Co. CA International Light Lager
Gold Smells Like Purple Rain Riip Beer Co. CA International-Style Pale Ale
Silver Ponga Grand Fir Brewing OR International-Style Pale Ale
Bronze Breakside Hello My Alien Breakside Brewery – NW Slabtown OR International-Style Pale Ale
Gold Chillzner Craft Coast – San Marcos CA International-Style Pilsener
Silver 500 Pesos ODD Muse Brewing Co. TX International-Style Pilsener
Bronze Munk Lager Munkle Brewing Co. SC International-Style Pilsener
Gold Coppermind Denver Beer Co. – Lowry Field CO Irish-Style Red Ale
Silver Engine 402 Orange Hat Brewing Co. TN Irish-Style Red Ale
Bronze Equanimity Ursa Minor Brewing MN Irish-Style Red Ale
Gold Zombi Shark Fight Green Cheek Beer Co. – Costa Mesa CA Italian-Style Pilsener
Silver Che Figata Sunriver Brewing Co. OR Italian-Style Pilsener
Bronze Wolf of the Woods Second Dawn Brewing Co. CO Italian-Style Pilsener
Gold DDH Pillow Highland Park Brewery – Chinatown CA Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale
Silver Mosaic Double Crush Moonraker Brewing Co. – Production Facility CA Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale
Bronze Juice Master Shred Beer Co. CA Juicy or Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale
Gold Professional Human Being Ambitious Ales CA Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale
Silver Groundswell Single Hill Brewing Co. WA Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale
Bronze Crash of Rhinos Movement Brewing Co. CA Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale
Gold Easy Eddy Big Grove Brewery & Taproom IA Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale
Silver Foggy Pines Evans Brewing Co. CA Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale
Bronze Wisp Lumen Beer Co. NE Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale
Gold Joyful Intuition Everywhere Beer Co. CA Juicy or Hazy Strong Pale Ale
Silver Lupulin Lab Wicked Weed Brewing Pub NC Juicy or Hazy Strong Pale Ale
Bronze Windows Up Alpine Beer Co. CO Juicy or Hazy Strong Pale Ale
Gold Czech Plz CraftHaus Brewery NV Kellerbier or Zwickelbier
Silver Pilsners are Lagers Benchtop Brewing Co. VA Kellerbier or Zwickelbier
Bronze Tankbeer Hopewell Brewing Co. IL Kellerbier or Zwickelbier
Gold Proverbial Fork Olfactory Brewing CA Mixed-Culture Brett Beer
Category Sponsor: Wyeast Laboratories
Silver Knitting Circle S5 Batch C Fair Isle Brewing WA Mixed-Culture Brett Beer
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Bronze Elisabeth ColdFire Brewing Co. – Barrel House OR Mixed-Culture Brett Beer
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Gold Helles von Trapp Brewing VT Munich-Style Helles
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Silver Crystal River Glenwood Canyon Brewing Co. CO Munich-Style Helles
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Bronze Old Gold Structures Brewing WA Munich-Style Helles
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Gold More Than A Zealand Cannonball Creek Brewing Co. CO New Zealand India Pale Ale
Silver Wannabe Wallaby Riip Beer Co. CA New Zealand India Pale Ale
Bronze Wastelandia Grains of Wrath WA New Zealand India Pale Ale
Gold The Russets Snow Capped Cider CO No/Low-Tannin Cider
Silver Graventein Snow Capped Cider CO No/Low-Tannin Cider
Bronze 10th Anniversary 2 Towns Ciderhouse OR No/Low-Tannin Cider
Gold Scaredy Cat Vintage Brewing Co. WI Oatmeal Stout
Silver Buttons the Bear Bear Chase Brewing Co. VA Oatmeal Stout
Bronze Brother Sam Three Tigers Brewing Co. OH Oatmeal Stout
Gold Orange Giant Ecliptic Brewing OR Old Ale or Strong Ale or Barley Wine
Silver Grow Old With You Verboten Brewing CO Old Ale or Strong Ale or Barley Wine
Bronze Artemesia Burns Family Artisan Ales Taphouse CO Old Ale or Strong Ale or Barley Wine
Gold Soul of a Star HUDL Brewing Co. NV Other Strong Beer
Silver Agua Santa Imperial Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. CA Other Strong Beer
Bronze Stone LifeBlurred Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station CA Other Strong Beer
Gold NARC IPA Resident Culture NC Pale Non-Alcohol Beer
Silver Free Wave Hazy IPA Athletic Brewing Co. CT Pale Non-Alcohol Beer
Bronze Kolsch Best Day Brewing CA Pale Non-Alcohol Beer
Gold Great Pumpkin Elysian Brewing Co. WA Pumpkin Beer
Category Sponsor: Amoretti
Silver Pumpkin Spice J. Marie River North Brewery – RiNo CO Pumpkin Beer
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Bronze Boo Ya! Ocean View Brewing Co. DE Pumpkin Beer
Category Sponsor: Amoretti
Gold Port City Porter Port City Brewing Co. VA Robust Porter
Silver Peaklet Mountain Rambler Brewery CA Robust Porter
Bronze Dark Chocolate Love Salish Sea Brewing Co. – Boathouse Taproom WA Robust Porter
Gold Crazy Jackass Ale Great American Restaurants – Sweetwater Tavern VA Rye Beers
Silver Roggenschnizzle Bier Brewery and Taproom IN Rye Beers
Bronze Beauty is in the Rye of the Beholder RockSolid Brewing Co. GA Rye Beers
Gold Wobbly Traveler Silver Harbor Brewing Co. MI Scotch Ale
Silver Full Malted Jacket Beachwood Brewing – Huntington Beach CA Scotch Ale
Bronze Old Chub Oskar Blues Brewery CO Scotch Ale
Gold Doc McLoughlin Scottish Ale Oregon City Brewing Co. OR Scottish-Style Ale
Silver Scottish Ale Stodgy Brewing Co. CO Scottish-Style Ale
Bronze Oasis Amber BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery – Reno NV Scottish-Style Ale
Gold Saison Lily ColdFire Brewing Co. – Barrel House OR Session Beer or Belgian-Style Table Beer
Silver Frequency of Expansion The Big Friendly OK Session Beer or Belgian-Style Table Beer
Bronze Guillaume Pizza Port Ocean Beach CA Session Beer or Belgian-Style Table Beer
Gold Divi Offset Bier Co. UT Session India Pale Ale
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Silver Josh’s New Tiny Shoes Green Cheek Beer Co. CA Session India Pale Ale
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Bronze Mini Ramp Session IPA June Lake Brewing CA Session India Pale Ale
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Gold Mountain Rose Haykin Family Cider CO Single Varietal Cider
Silver Macintosh Gowan’s Heirloom Cider CA Single Varietal Cider
Bronze Glow – Airlie Redflesh SV Alpenfire Cider WA Single Varietal Cider
Gold Smoke and Embers New Belgium Brewing Co. CO Smoke Beer
Silver Smoke Control Burghers Brewing PA Smoke Beer
Bronze Rauchbier Port City Brewing Co. VA Smoke Beer
Gold Washout Wheat Holy City Brewing SC South German-Style Hefeweizen
Silver Don’t Hassle the Hef Westbound & Down Brewing Co. – Westbound Mill CO South German-Style Hefeweizen
Bronze Polterweiss Hefeweizen Green Mountain Beer Co. CO South German-Style Hefeweizen
Gold Commander Salamander Spring House Brewing Co. PA Specialty Berliner-Style Weisse
Silver Razzle fo’ Shazzle Great Basin Brewing Co. NV Specialty Berliner-Style Weisse
Bronze Gindulgence 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Bend Pub OR Specialty Berliner-Style Weisse
Gold Patagonia Provisions Non-Alcoholic Kernza Golden Brew Deschutes Brewery OR Specialty Non-Alcohol Beer
Silver Tropical Sour Athletic Brewing Co. CT Specialty Non-Alcohol Beer
Bronze Special Effects Grapefruit IPA Brooklyn Brewery NY Specialty Non-Alcohol Beer
Gold Lucy Loves Rye Apogee Brewing Co. CA Specialty Saison
Silver Mount Eden Pure Project CA Specialty Saison
Bronze Wild Honey Cruz Blanca Brewery IL Specialty Saison
Gold Correspondent Wander Brewing WA Stout
Silver Nebula Stout Block 15 Brewery & Tap Room OR Stout
Bronze Diatomaceous Dry Stout Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. – Production Facility TN Stout
Gold Jeff’s Baltic Porter Green Cheek Beer Co. – Oceanside CA Strong Porter
Silver Magpie Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. – Santa Barbara CA Strong Porter
Bronze Baltic Porter Bear Chase Brewing Co. VA Strong Porter
Gold Wreak Havoc Bootstrap Brewing CO Strong Red Ale
Silver Rolling Rust Grand Fir Brewing OR Strong Red Ale
Bronze Trash Pandamonium Benchtop Brewing Co. VA Strong Red Ale
Gold Mustachio Milk Stout Tractor Brewing Co. NM Sweet Stout or Cream Stout
Silver Chocolate Milk Stout Boxing Bear Brewing Co. – Firestone NM Sweet Stout or Cream Stout
Bronze Moozie Brink Brewing Co. OH Sweet Stout or Cream Stout
Gold Classic Dry Gowan’s Heirloom Cider CA Tannic Cider
Silver Cedar Valley Blend Paha Cider Co. IA Tannic Cider
Bronze 2022 Cidre Bouché 2 Towns Ciderhouse OR Tannic Cider
Gold Vienna Fest Bier Quarter Celtic Brewpub NM Vienna-Style Lager
Silver Metalmark Marzen Morgan Territory Brewing CA Vienna-Style Lager
Bronze Red Dawn Bonesaw Brewing Co. NJ Vienna-Style Lager
Gold Codebreaker Trademark Brewing CA West Coast IPA
Silver Pacific Portal Alma Mader Brewing MO West Coast IPA
Bronze IPA for Aliens Masthead Brewing Co. OH West Coast IPA
Gold Ghoul Fuel- Rum Diaries Edition Bull & Bush Brewery CO Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer
Silver Temporary Paradise- Rum Diaries Edition Bull & Bush Brewery CO Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer
Bronze Barrel Aged Dopplebock MORE Brewing Co. IL Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer
Gold French 75 Alesong Brewing & Blending OR Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Silver Madrigal Monday Night Brewing – Garage GA Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Bronze 5 On It Long Table Brewhouse CO Wood- and Barrel-Aged Sour Beer
Gold Bass Clef Audio Graph Beer Co. CA Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
Silver Barrel-Aged Imperial Satan’s Pony South Street Brewery VA Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
Bronze 10th Anniversary Barleywine Creature Comforts Brewing Co. GA Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Beer
Gold Western Justice Westbound & Down Brewing Co. CO Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout
Silver Humongous Sleepy Chungus Bear Werk Force Brewing Co. IL Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout
Bronze Breakside La Maison du Bang! Breakside Brewery OR Wood- and Barrel-Aged Strong Stout

About the Brewers Association
The Brewers Association, a nonprofit trade group devoted to advancing small and independent U.S. craft brewers, drives innovation, excellence, and community in the industry. Through education, advocacy, and flagship events such as the Great American Beer Festival and Craft Brewers Conference, it empowers breweries to succeed. Representing thousands across the nation, the Association upholds craft beer’s authenticity while promoting growth for operations of every scale.

Filed Under: Beer, Beer Competition, great american beer festival

Fred Flintstone and Barney Serving Mr. Slate a Busch Beer

April 29, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

In 1967, Hanna-Barbera created an Anheuser-Busch promotional cartoon featuring Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble promoting Busch beer. Reportedly made for company employees, the ad had a detailed, extended storyline.

Hanna-Barbera also produced a Winston cigarette ad featuring Fred and Barney.

In 1967, Hanna-Barbera created an Anheuser-Busch promotional cartoon featuring Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble promoting Busch beer. Reportedly made for company employees, the ad had a detailed, extended storyline.

The Flintstones, an American animated sitcom by Hanna-Barbera, is set in a fictional Stone Age and centers on the Flintstone family and their neighbors, the Rubbles. Airing on ABC from September 30, 1960, to April 1, 1966, it was the first animated series to secure a prime-time slot.

Other Cartoon Characters Used by Beer Companies

Beer companies have occasionally leveraged cartoon characters for marketing, though examples are limited due to advertising regulations and concerns about appealing to underage audiences. Besides the Flintstones example, here are notable instances:

  • Hamm’s Beer Bear (1950s–1960s): Hamm’s Brewery used an animated bear mascot in numerous TV commercials. The bear, often depicted in humorous scenarios in a Northwoods setting, was not tied to an existing cartoon franchise but was a custom character created for the brand. These ads were popular and ran for years, becoming iconic in beer advertising history.
  • Budweiser’s Spuds MacKenzie (1980s): While not a traditional cartoon, Budweiser’s Spuds MacKenzie, a bull terrier, was occasionally featured in animated or cartoon-style promotional materials during the late 1980s. The character was part of a broader campaign, though primarily portrayed by a real dog.

No other major instances of well-known cartoon characters (like those from established shows) being used by beer companies have been widely documented. Strict advertising regulations, especially post-1990s, limited the use of animated characters in alcohol marketing to avoid targeting younger audiences

For Brewing fun fact, trivia, movies and more, Click Here.

Filed Under: Beer

Lift Bridge Brewing Names Former Leinenkugel Master Brewer John Hensley as Director of Operations

April 24, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

 Lift Bridge Brewing
Photo by Lift Bridge Brewing

Stillwater, MN — Lift Bridge Brewing Company, one of Minnesota’s leading craft breweries, is proud to announce the appointment of John Hensley as its new Director of Operations. Hensley brings over a decade of experience in large-scale brewing and operations, most recently serving as Master Brewer at Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, part of Molson Coors.

As Lift Bridge continues to grow its footprint across Minnesota and the Midwest, Hensley will join the company’s leadership team to oversee brewery operations, quality assurance, packaging, and the expansion of Lift Bridge’s diverse portfolio of craft beers and beyond beer beverages.

“We are thrilled to have John join our team as we continue navigating the evolving craft beverage industry with our award-winning beers and innovative product lines,” said Igor Barabash, CEO of Lift Bridge Brewing Co. “John’s industry expertise strengthens our ability to scale, support contract brewing partners, and continue delivering exceptional quality across every sip.”

A Proven Leader in Brewing Innovation
At Leinenkugel’s, Hensley oversaw brewing and quality control while leading capital improvement projects that supported growth for one of the country’s most iconic breweries. His deep technical knowledge and passion for innovation align perfectly with Lift Bridge’s mission to craft high-quality, flavor-forward beverages.

Lift Bridge Brewing: Growth, Innovation, and Commitment to Quality
Lift Bridge’s hiring of Hensley comes amid a wave of innovation from the brewery. Recent product launches include:

Gluten-Removed Flavored Malt Beverages (crafted using a proprietary nano-filtration process)
Year-Round and Seasonal Craft Beers
Premium Non-Alcoholic Mocktails
Hemp-Based Beverages and Gummies
Sodas and Spirit-Based Cocktails

Now in its 17th year, Lift Bridge Brewing is preparing for its next phase of growth with a planned production facility expansion that will allow for full insourcing and increased co-packing capabilities.

“Our mission has always been to create the highest-quality beverages possible—and that takes the highest-quality people,” said Brad Glynn, Co-Founder and Creative Director. “With John on board, we’re ready to push boundaries while staying true to our roots.”

About Lift Bridge Brewing Company
Lift Bridge Brewing Company, founded in 2008 by Dan Schwarz and a group of high school friends in Stillwater, Minnesota—the birthplace of Minnesota—is one of the state’s pioneering craft breweries and remains a beloved local favorite in 2025. Based in a historic downtown Stillwater building just steps from the iconic Lift Bridge over the St. Croix River, the brewery is best known for its flagship Mini Donut Beer (a golden ale with real cinnamon-sugar mini donuts from the Minnesota State Fair), Mango Blonde (a refreshing fruit-infused blonde ale), and the award-winning Commander English barleywine. With a spacious taproom featuring river views, seasonal patio seating, and a lineup that includes hop-forward IPAs, crisp lagers, and the popular Hop Dish IPA, Lift Bridge blends Minnesota tradition with modern craft innovation. Their beers are distributed across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and parts of the Midwest, and the taproom regularly hosts events, live music, and food trucks—making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Minnesota’s thriving craft beer scene. Discover more at liftbridgebrewery.com

Filed Under: Beer Tagged With: Lift Bridge

BarrelHouse Brewing Co. Acquires Iconic Sherwood Field Hangar for Ambitious Expansion in Paso Robles

April 18, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

PASO ROBLES, CA — BarrelHouse Brewing Co., a cornerstone of Central Coast craft brewing, has acquired the historic Sherwood Field Hangar, marking a significant milestone in its growth. Located at the bustling intersection of Niblick and Creston Roads, this 10-acre site in East Paso Robles will soon transform into a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts and the local community.

The newly dubbed “Hangar Project” signals an exciting new chapter for BarrelHouse Brewing Co. The expansive 100,000-square-foot facility will house a cutting-edge brewhouse, advanced packaging systems, and increased production capacity. By integrating sustainable technologies like solar power, water conservation systems, and CO2 recapture, BarrelHouse is committed to crafting exceptional beers while prioritizing environmental responsibility.

“We’re thrilled to bring our passion for great beer and community connection from Tin City to this incredible new space,” said Jason Carvalho, Owner and Founder of BarrelHouse Brewing Co. “The Hangar Project allows us to scale our operations while staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and bringing people together.”

The Hangar Project’s five-year vision extends beyond brewing. BarrelHouse plans to create an open-market destination that celebrates Paso Robles’ rich culinary and artisanal culture. By partnering with local food vendors, artisans, and businesses, the reimagined 1940s hangar and its grounds will become a lively gathering place for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy premium food, drinks, and entertainment.

Steeped in history, the Sherwood Field Hangar was originally constructed in 1940 by the Army Corps of Engineers as a key Central Coast base for the U.S. Army Air Force and Navy during World War II. Post-war, it served as the operational hub for the Ennis Paper Company, employing generations of local families. BarrelHouse’s design plans will honor this legacy by incorporating vintage airplanes and printing presses into the space, creating a unique blend of history and modern innovation.

BarrelHouse Brewing
BarrelHouse Brewing Co., the Central Coast’s premier family-owned craft brewery, continues to redefine the art of brewing with its unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. Nestled in the heart of Paso Robles, BarrelHouse has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a dynamic taproom experience that pairs innovative, handcrafted beers with live music and a welcoming atmosphere. With a focus on eco-conscious practices, including water-efficient brewing and solar energy initiatives, BarrelHouse is not only crafting award-winning beers but also fostering a vibrant community hub where good people come together for great times. Stay tuned for exciting updates as BarrelHouse continues to elevate the craft beer scene in California’s wine country. For more details, visit  https://barrelhousebrewing.com/.

 

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Filed Under: Beer, craftbeer Tagged With: BarrelHouse, BarrelHouse Brewing, California, california beer, Paso Robles Beer, The Hangar

Prost Brewing Co. to Open German-Style Biergarten in Wheat Ridge, Colorado in 2026

April 18, 2025 by Spencer Mapes

Prost Brewing WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. — April 2025 — Prost Brewing Co., a Colorado-based leader in brewing authentic German-style biers, is proud to announce its newest expansion: a fifth biergarten opening in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, in early 2026.

The 6,800-square-foot biergarten will be part of the highly anticipated Clear Creek Crossing development, offering a scenic location next to Coors’ pond with sweeping mountain views. This new location continues Prost’s mission of creating welcoming, community-driven spaces where guests can enjoy award-winning beer and classic German hospitality.

“This expansion is part of our bigger vision for growth — building biergartens that bring people together through tradition and quality,” said David Deline, President of Prost Brewing Co. “We’ve spent years refining our brand and focusing on the authentic German experience. Whether you’re a local, a traveler, or just beer-curious, our biergartens are places where you can feel at home and drink like a German.”

A Unique Experience at the New Wheat Ridge Biergarten
Prost’s Wheat Ridge biergarten will feature an open-concept design with a fully enclosed patio, spacious dining areas, and private event space. A highlight of the location will be its 1-barrel research and development brewhouse, allowing guests to watch small-batch brewing in action.

The bar will showcase 40 taps, pouring Prost’s full lineup of German-style biers along with guest ciders, craft cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options. Visitors can expect Prost’s signature German-inspired food menu, featuring house-made items and partnerships with local favorites like Charcutnuvo sausages and XLVII’s Bakery.

Easy to Access, Built for Community
Conveniently located just off I-70 and along the Clear Creek bike path, the Wheat Ridge biergarten is designed to be a destination for both locals and out-of-town visitors. The biergarten will back up to a public park complete with an amphitheater, yard games, fire pits, and plenty of space to relax with a bier in hand.

This addition builds on Prost’s steady growth across Colorado, following successful biergartens in Denver, Fort Collins, Highlands Ranch, and Northglenn — the latter also home to Prost’s new 60,000-square-foot brewery and production facility.

Learn More
For updates on the Wheat Ridge biergarten opening or to explore Prost’s award-winning biers, visit prostbrewing.com.

The Story of Prost Brewing Company: Colorado’s Celebration of German Beer Craftsmanship

Founded in 2012 in Denver, Colorado, Prost Brewing Company has become a leading name in authentic German-style craft beer in the United States. From the beginning, Prost has focused on brewing traditional German lagers and ales using time-honored techniques and the highest quality ingredients—most of which are sourced directly from Germany.

The heart of Prost’s brewing operations began with a historic touch: they imported a 1963 copper brewhouse from the former Brauerei Hümmer, a brewery in Germany that operated for over 350 years. This rare, old-world system was painstakingly transported and reassembled in Denver, setting Prost apart with its commitment to Old-World authenticity from day one.

Prost follows the Reinheitsgebot—the German Beer Purity Law of 1516—which means their beers are brewed with just four ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast. This dedication to purity and quality has earned Prost multiple awards at prestigious competitions, including gold medals at the Great American Beer Festival for their Keller Pils, Weissbier, and Luna Lager.

As demand for their traditional German-style beers grew, so did Prost. The brewery expanded with biergartens in Fort Collins and Highlands Ranch, and in 2024, Prost opened a new state-of-the-art brewing facility and biergarten in Northglenn, Colorado. This flagship location boasts 60,000 square feet of brewing space, complete with energy-efficient equipment and sustainability-focused features like CO₂ recapture systems.

In recent years, Prost has introduced a range of new products and transitioned many of their core beers to cans, making their award-winning German-style biers more accessible across the United States. Their seasonal offerings now include Vienna Lager, Märzen, Radler, Helles, and an India Pale Lager (IPL), all brewed with the same care and traditional methods that define the Prost name.

Today, Prost Brewing Company continues to grow its footprint while remaining true to its roots—celebrating German beer culture, building community, and crafting clean, flavorful lagers that stand the test of time.

Drink like a German. Prost!

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Filed Under: Beer Tagged With: Prost Brewing

Living The Dream Brewing Introduces New Light Lager

April 17, 2025 by Dow Scoggins

Living The Dream Brewing Releases Light Lager in ColoradoHIGHLANDS RANCH, Colorado — Living The Dream Brewing has launched its newest year-round beer: Living The Dream Light Lager. This light, crisp, and classic craft lager is now available in 12oz canned 6-packs across Colorado through Colorado Craft Distributors.

As more beer drinkers reach for easy-drinking craft lagers, Living The Dream Light Lager delivers with just 4.2% ABV. Refreshing, approachable, and low in alcohol, this brew is perfect for any occasion—from hiking trails to backyard BBQs.

The beer’s packaging marks a bold departure from the brewery’s typical label artwork. Designed with striking red, blue, and yellow Colorado flag colors, the can is made to stand out on store shelves.

“We wanted to create something that was easy to spot and even easier to drink,” said Jason Bell, Founder of Living The Dream Brewing. “Whether you’re celebrating an outdoor adventure, enjoying a night with friends, or simply relaxing, our Light Lager is the perfect companion.”

Fans can also join in on the brewery’s #livingthedreamoutside campaign. By sharing photos of their Light Lager moments on social media, participants are entered to win exclusive merchandise giveaways.

Living The Dream Light Lager is available on draft and in cans at both Living The Dream taprooms in Highlands Ranch and Sterling Ranch, as well as at over 500 retail and bar locations throughout Colorado.

About Living The Dream Brewing
Founded in 2014 in  the heart of Colorado, Living The Dream Brewing embodies the state’s adventurous spirit and passion for craft beer. Founded in Littleton, this independent brewery has built a loyal following with its commitment to creating high-quality, approachable beers that pair perfectly with the Rocky Mountain lifestyle. From their flagship offerings to innovative seasonal releases, Living The Dream’s taprooms in Highlands Ranch and Sterling Ranch serve as welcoming hubs for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of Colorado’s vibrant craft beer culture in a laid-back, community-focused atmosphere.

Learn more at livingthedreambrewing.com.

Filed Under: Beer, craft lager

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