The World Beer Cup, hosted by the Brewers Association, recently concluded its 15th iteration in Las Vegas, Nevada and announced the winners. This renowned competition brought together a staggering 9,300 entries from 2,060 breweries across 50 nations, making it the largest beer competition in the world. Over the course of seven days, a panel of 280 judges from 37 countries assessed the brews, demonstrating a global perspective on beer excellence.
Spanning 110 categories encompassing 172 different beer styles, the competition showcased the breadth and innovation in the craft beer industry. From classic styles like American Wheat Beer to experimental brews pushing the boundaries of flavor, the World Beer Cup celebrated the craftsmanship and creativity of brewers worldwide.
Among the most entered categories were Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale, West-Coast Style India Pale Ale, and German-Style Pilsener, reflecting the ongoing popularity of these styles among both brewers and consumers. Old Irving won the Juicy or Hazy IPA gold with their Beezer. ISM Brewing earned the West-Coast IPA gold with Western Standard Time. pFriem grabbed the German-style Pilsener gold. The competition also saw significant participation in categories highlighting traditional and historic styles, reaffirming the enduring appeal of beer’s rich heritage.
The winners list featured a wide array of breweries from around the globe, with notable achievements from both established names and emerging talents. In addition to celebrating outstanding beers, the World Beer Cup also provided a platform for international collaboration and exchange. With a quarter of entries coming from breweries outside the United States and judges representing a multitude of countries, the competition served as a testament to beer’s ability to unite people across borders.
As Chris Williams, World Beer Cup competition director, remarked, “Each award represents not only exceptional quality but also innovation and creativity, driving the global craft beer industry forward.”