The World Beer Cup Winners: Celebrating Excellence in Brewing
The World Beer Cup is often hailed as the “Olympics of Beer Competitions,” bringing together Brewing experts from all over the globe. This year’s celebration in Las Vegas was no exception, showcasing an array of the planet’s finest brews. As the event remains a pivotal moment for Craft Beer lovers, the coveted prizes and the winners themselves attract much attention. Let’s delve into the highlights of the event, focusing on the sought-after India Pale Ales (IPAs).
Highlights from the World Beer Cup Winners
Organized by the Brewers Association, the World Beer Cup witnessed submissions totaling eight different IPA subcategories. Among these, the Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale reigned supreme with 326 entries. Let’s explore the winners of each category:
Award-Winning Hazy IPA Medalists
- Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale: Beezer — Old Irving Brewing Company, Chicago, Illinois.
- Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale: Jimmy Buffet Ruined My Life — Swells’a Brewing Beer Company, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.
- American-Style India Pale Ale: High 6 — Highland Park Brewery, Los Angeles, California.
- Experimental India Pale Ale: Kross IPA — Cervecería Kross, Santiago, Chile.
- Imperial India Pale Ale: Chance Favors the Prepared Mind — Green Cheek Beer Company, Orange, California.
- New Zealand-Style India Pale Ale: Wannabe Wallaby — Riip Beer Company, Huntington Beach, California.
- Session India Pale Ale: Micro Blaster — Shred Beer Company, Rocklin, California.
- West-Coast Style India Pale Ale: Western Standard Time — ISM Brewing & Kitchen, Long Beach, California.
California Craft Breweries Shine
Once again, California Craft breweries have shown their prowess, clinching five of the eight top prizes. Southern California, in particular, demonstrated its mastery in brewing, with four gold medals under its belt. Given that most winning breweries offer regional beers with limited distribution, a visit to SoCal might be in order to sample their award-winning IPAs. For those unable to make the trip, the double dry-hopped Beezer IPA is a more accessible option, available in canned 16 oz. 4-packs.
Medal Table: Hazy IPA Medalists
Category | Winner | Brewery | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale | Beezer | Old Irving Brewing Company | Chicago, Illinois |
Hazy Imperial India Pale Ale | Jimmy Buffet Ruined My Life | Swells’a Brewing Beer Company | Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina |
West-Coast Style India Pale Ale | Western Standard Time | ISM Brewing & Kitchen | Long Beach, California |
It’s clear that enthusiasts continue to be captivated by IPAs, from the traditional to the experimental. Although the term dates back to 1835 England, today’s IPAs are a far cry from their historical counterparts. This continual evolution is why the World beer Cup must split the style into various categories.
Next on the horizon is the Great American Beer Festival, slated for October 10-12 in Denver, Colorado. Expect more medalists and even some surprises. One thing we know for sure: IPAs will remain a significant focus.
So, here’s to the World Beer Cup winners and the finest IPAs on the planet. Raise a glass and enjoy!