On July 4, 2021, The Canyon Club microbrewery restaurant in Moraga, California was bustling with excitement as patrons savored a chilled glass of Beta Tested Pilsner. Meanwhile, across the country in Minnesota, several breweries were celebrating their victories at the World Beer Cup Awards held in Las Vegas. Described as the “most prestigious beer competition in the world,” the event saw breweries compete for gold, silver, or bronze medals in 110 categories. Out of over 9,000 entries from more than 2,000 breweries worldwide, six Minnesota craft breweries emerged triumphant.
Jess Talley, executive director of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild couldn’t be happier for her local breweries that won medals at this esteemed event. She highlighted how these awards are a testament to the passion, talent and hard work that go into crafting some of the best beer in the world by Minnesota’s very own breweries and brewpubs.
The winning Minnesota breweries included Bent Paddle Brewing Co. in Duluth who took home a gold medal for their exceptional creations. Northbound Smokehouse and Brewpub in Minneapolis also received a gold medal for their outstanding beers. Excelsior Brewing Co., located in Excelsior won a silver medal while Lupulin Brewing in Big Lake and BeerClub Brewing in Mora both took home bronze medals for their innovative creations. Lastly, Pryes Brewing Co., based out of Minneapolis also received recognition with a bronze medal for their impressive offerings. Each of these Minnesota breweries showcased the diverse and innovative craft beer scene that is thriving in the state.
