Beer, like any beverage, is subjective. Every person favors nuances in flavor, aroma and mouthfeel. So what do you get when you ask hundreds of the world’s most experienced beer drinkers to taste nearly 10,000 beers from across the globe? Only one of the most comprehensive beer lists ever assembled.
The 2024 World Beer Cup
Such was the case with the World Beer Cup (WBC), recently hosted in Las Vegas over the course of 14 tasting sessions by the Brewers Association. Nearly 300 judges came from around the world to taste 9,300 beers from 50 different countries, only to pick a trio of winners across 110 categories that ranged from the historic (“Brown Porter”) to the regional (“South German-Style Dunkel Weizen”).
“This year’s winners exemplify the spirit of craftsmanship and ingenuity and showcase the diverse flavors and techniques that make beer an art form.”
“Each award represents not only exceptional quality but also innovation and creativity, driving the global craft beer industry forward,” said Chris Williams, the director of the competition, in a press release. “This year’s winners exemplify the spirit of craftsmanship and ingenuity and showcase the diverse flavors and techniques that make beer an art form.”
Hoppy Hour
The most competitive categories were “Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale” (326 entries), “West-Coast Style India Pale Ale” (281 entries) and “German-Style Pilsener” (221 entries). International breweries represented 25 percent of the total entries, with the vast majority coming from the United States.
Some breweries took home multiple awards. Deschutes Brewery, from Bend, OR, won gold for its Hachimitsu Ma honey beer, Neon Butterfly brett beer and Black Butte Non-Alcoholic, as well as a silver medal for Sensationator in the category of “Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer.”
Below, find the 15 winners across the most competitive categories. Head to The World Beer Cup’s website for the full list of winners.
